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Arthur Plesa, DC, Scott Jackson, DC, David Shores, DC, Matthew Wolfertz, DC
Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research ~ October 14, 2026 ~ Pages 25-31
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Abstract
Introduction: Knee Chest Upper Cervical techniques consider atlas subluxations in three planes of motion; however, the clinical significance of atlas rotation remains debated. This study examined whether adapting the line of correction for atlas rotation is necessary to improve post-adjustment thermal patterns.
Methods: Twenty chiropractic patients from two clinics underwent cervical radiographs and infrared thermal scanning. Patients were adjusted using a three-letter atlas subluxation listing without incorporating the rotational component. Thermal scanning was repeated after a 15-minute post-adjustment rest period.
Results: All 20 patients demonstrated favorable changes in post-adjustment thermal scans despite atlas rotation not being incorporated into the line of correction.
Conclusion: Favorable thermal pattern changes were observed without adapting the line of correction for atlas rotation. These findings suggest that incorporating atlas rotation may not be necessary for favorable post-adjustment thermal outcomes. Further research with larger samples and comparative designs is warranted.
Keywords: vertebral subluxation, Atlas, upper cervical chiropractic, line of correction, infrared thermography
