What is Upper Cervical Chiropractic?
Upper cervical chiropractic is a specialized form of chiropractic care that focuses on the alignment of the top two vertebrae in the spine — the atlas (C1) and axis (C2). These vertebrae protect the brainstem, which controls vital functions throughout the body.
Misalignments in this area can interfere with the nervous system, leading to a wide range of health issues. Through precise, gentle adjustments, upper cervical care restores proper alignment without twisting, cracking, or popping.
We are the only offices in Manhattan and Long Island equipped with 3D Cone Beam CT scanning technology for the most precise analysis possible.
We Listen.
We Care.
We Get Results.
We Listen.
We Care.
We Get Results.
ἰατρός— the healer. For over a decade, Apollo Upper Cervical Chiropractic has specialized in the one area of the spine that governs brain function and whole-body balance. We don’t twist. We don’t crack. We align.
Meet Your Doctors
Dr. Denicio Drake
DC
Dr. Denicio Drake is an upper cervical chiropractor at Apollo's Massapequa location. With a passion for helping patients achieve optimal spinal health, Dr. Drake brings expertise in upper cervical techniques to Long Island, providing personalized care focused on restoring alignment and supporting the body's natural healing processes.
Dr. Kosta Tsakalos
DC
Dr. Kosta Tsakalos is a dedicated upper cervical chiropractor specializing in the Blair and Knee Chest techniques. A graduate of Life University, Dr. Kosta brings a patient-centered approach to every adjustment, combining advanced 3D CBCT imaging with precise, gentle corrections. He is the President of the New York Chiropractic Council Queens Chapter and operates the only offices in Manhattan and Long Island equipped with 3D Cone Beam CT scanning technology.
YOUR JOURNEY
What to Expect as a New Patient
Day 1
Comprehensive Evaluation
Your first visit includes a detailed health history review, neurological assessments, and state-of-the-art 3D CBCT imaging to precisely identify any upper cervical misalignments. This thorough evaluation allows us to understand your unique needs and create a personalized care plan.
Day 2
Report & First Adjustment
We review your imaging results and findings with you in detail, explaining exactly what we found and how we plan to help. If indicated, you'll receive your first precise, gentle upper cervical adjustment — no twisting, cracking, or popping.
Ongoing
Progress & Wellness
Regular progress evaluations track your improvement with objective neurological testing. As your body heals and holds adjustments longer, visit frequency decreases. Many patients transition to wellness care to maintain optimal spinal health.
SERVICES
Our Services
Manual Adjustment
Precise, hands-on upper cervical corrections using the Blair and Knee Chest techniques to restore proper alignment of the atlas and axis vertebrae.
Integrator Instrument
An FDA-approved instrument that delivers a gentle, precise adjustment. Ideal for patients who prefer an instrument-based approach to upper cervical care.
3D CBCT Imaging
Cone Beam CT scanning provides detailed 3D views of your upper cervical spine, allowing for the most precise analysis and adjustment vectors. We are the only offices in Manhattan and Long Island with this technology.
Spinal Decompression
Non-surgical spinal decompression therapy gently stretches the spine, relieving pressure on compressed discs and nerves to promote healing and pain relief.
Rehabilitation
Targeted rehabilitation exercises and therapies designed to strengthen supporting muscles, improve posture, and enhance the effectiveness of your adjustments.
Corrective Exercises
Customized exercise programs you can do at home to support your spinal corrections, improve flexibility, and maintain proper alignment between visits.
Pregnancy & Pediatric Care
Gentle, specialized upper cervical care for expectant mothers and children. Safe adjustments that support healthy development and comfort throughout pregnancy.
0
Years of Practice
0
NYC Locations
0
Conditions Helped
0
Patients Helped
TESTIMONIALS
What Our Patients Say
Wonderful personalized care with excellent advice for general health and well-being. I take a train 1.5 hours each way to see Dr. Kosta. He's great!
— Paola S.
CONDITIONS WE HELP
Conditions We Help
Upper cervical chiropractic care can help with a wide range of health conditions by restoring proper nervous system function.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Upper cervical chiropractic is a specialized form of chiropractic care that focuses on the alignment of the top two vertebrae in the spine — the atlas (C1) and axis (C2). These vertebrae protect the brainstem, which controls vital functions throughout the body. Misalignments in this area can interfere with the nervous system, leading to a wide range of health issues. Through precise, gentle adjustments, upper cervical care restores proper alignment without twisting, cracking, or popping.
No. Upper cervical adjustments are extremely gentle. There is no twisting, cracking, or popping of the neck. The adjustment is a precise, controlled correction that most patients describe as a light pressure. Many patients are surprised by how gentle it is.
While general chiropractors adjust the entire spine, upper cervical specialists focus exclusively on the top two vertebrae. We use advanced 3D CBCT imaging to precisely measure misalignments down to fractions of a degree, allowing for highly specific corrections. This precision means fewer adjustments, longer-lasting results, and a focus on allowing your body to heal naturally.
Many patients notice changes after their very first adjustment. However, true correction and healing is a process. Your care plan will be tailored to your specific condition, with regular progress evaluations to track your improvement. Most patients see significant improvement within the first few weeks of care.
We accept most major insurance plans. We also offer affordable care plan options for patients without insurance coverage. Contact our office for specific insurance questions — our team will be happy to verify your benefits.
Upper cervical chiropractic has helped patients with migraines, headaches, neck pain, back pain, vertigo, TMJ disorders, sciatica, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, trigeminal neuralgia, and many other conditions. By restoring proper alignment and removing interference to the nervous system, the body is better able to heal and function optimally.
LOCATIONS
Visit Our Offices
Precision upper cervical care across the New York metro area.
Astoria Queens
Astoria, NY 11103
Massapequa Long Island
Massapequa, NY 11758
SoHo NYC
New York, NY 10012
MAP
Find Us
Precision upper cervical care across the New York metro area.