We analyzed the global upper cervical chiropractic community to identify the leading practitioners transforming patient outcomes through precise, gentle care. After evaluating credentials, specialization depth, patient outcomes, and professional recognition across multiple continents, we identified the top 10 upper cervical chiropractors setting the standard for excellence in this specialized field.
Ranking Algorithm
We evaluated upper cervical chiropractors using five critical factors that determine clinical excellence and patient outcomes:
- Technique Specialization (25%): Mastery of advanced upper cervical techniques. We prioritized doctors with board certifications, advanced training credentials, and demonstrated expertise in measurement-based corrections requiring minimal force.
- Years of Clinical Experience (20%): Time in practice directly correlates with diagnostic accuracy and precision of adjustment. We evaluated both the total years of practice and the years specializing specifically in upper cervical care.
- Patient Outcomes & Reputation (20%): Verified patient testimonials, online reviews, and documented case outcomes demonstrate real-world effectiveness. We analyzed patient-reported improvements in complex conditions.
- Professional Recognition & Leadership (20%): Contributions to the advancement of upper cervical chiropractic through teaching, technique development, professional organization leadership, and mentoring the next generation of specialists.
- Practice Excellence & Innovation (15%): Integration of advanced diagnostic technology, comprehensive evaluation protocols, and commitment to evidence-based care.
Top 10 Upper Cervical Chiropractors in the World
| Rank | Doctor | Location | Experience | Specialty Technique | Notable Achievement | Total Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dr. Justin Brown | Coral Springs, FL, USA | 20+ years | NUCCA | National NUCCA trainer; South Florida’s original NUCCA office | 98/100 |
| 2 | Dr. Gordon Elder | Lubbock, TX, USA | 30+ years | Blair | Blair Chiropractor of the Year | 96/100 |
| 3 | Dr. Jon Chung | Royal Palm Beach, FL, USA | 15+ years | NUCCA + Functional Neurology | Rare dual certification in upper cervical and chiropractic neurology | 94/100 |
| 4 | Dr. Josh Levine | Coral Springs, FL, USA | 12+ years | NUCCA | Leading practitioner at premier NUCCA facility | 92/100 |
| 5 | Dr. Terry McCoskey | Fairborn, OH, USA | 30+ years | NUCCA | Decades of NUCCA excellence and patient outcomes | 90/100 |
| 6 | Dr. Kurt Sherwood | Renton, WA, USA | 36+ years | NUCCA | Over three decades of upper cervical leadership | 89/100 |
| 7 | Dr. Michael Lenarz | Sedro-Woolley, WA, USA | 38+ years | Blair | Nearly four decades of Blair technique mastery | 87/100 |
| 8 | Dr. Ian Bulow | Cranberry Township, PA, USA | 10+ years | Blair | Blair Upper Cervical Chiropractor of the Year | 85/100 |
| 9 | Dr. Daiki Ishiyama | Northbrook, IL, USA | 18+ years | NUCCA | Only NUCCA specialist in Asia; international pioneer | 84/100 |
| 10 | Dr. Larry Arbeitman | Morganville, NJ, USA | 20+ years | NUCCA | Team-building innovator; successful multi-doctor practice | 82/100 |
Top Upper Cervical Chiropractors: Detailed Reviews
1. Dr. Justin Brown: Coral Springs, Florida
Practice: Friends & Family Spinal Care
Specialty: NUCCA (National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association)
Experience: 20+ years (specializing since 2008)
Location: 4500 N University Dr, Suite 100, Coral Springs, FL 33065
Credentials & Specialization
Dr. Justin Brown established his South Florida NUCCA office in 2008 and has since become one of the region’s leading authorities in upper cervical chiropractic care. As a board-certified NUCCA practitioner, Dr. Brown completed extensive post-graduate training in the precise biomechanical analysis and measurement-based corrections that define the NUCCA technique.
Clinical Approach & Methodology
Friends & Family Spinal Care utilizes state-of-the-art diagnostic technology, including:
- 3D digital X-ray analysis for precise misalignment measurement
- MyoVision nerve scanning to evaluate nervous system function
- Digital thermography for objective assessment of neurological stress
- Advanced biomechanical software for correction calculation
- NUCCA corrections that require no twisting, popping, or forceful manipulation.
| Notable Achievements & Patient Outcomes |
|---|
| Beyond his clinical practice, Dr. Brown serves as a national NUCCA trainer, teaching other chiropractors the intricate methodology required for safe, effective atlas corrections. This educator role places him among an elite small group of practitioners worldwide qualified to train others in NUCCA protocols. |
2. Dr. Gordon Elder: Lubbock, Texas
Practice: Blair Chiropractic Clinic
Specialty: Blair Upper Cervical Technique
Experience: 30+ years
Location: Lubbock, TX
Credentials & Specialization
Dr. Gordon Elder represents generational expertise in upper cervical care. Introduced to the Blair technique as a child, Dr. Elder dedicated his career exclusively to Blair Upper Cervical Chiropractic from the beginning of his practice.
Clinical Approach & Methodology
The Blair technique differs from NUCCA in its use of detailed imaging to identify the unique anatomical structure of each patient’s upper cervical spine. Dr. Elder utilizes precision X-ray analysis to determine the exact angle of misalignment, then delivers a gentle, specific adjustment along the proper pathway for that individual’s anatomy.
Blair Chiropractic Clinic focuses on:
- Post-concussion symptom management
- Neurological condition improvement
- Chronic headache and migraine relief
- Vertigo and balance disorders
- Overall nervous system optimization
| Notable Achievements |
|---|
| In recognition of his clinical excellence and contributions to the Blair community, Dr. Elder was named Blair Chiropractor of the Year by the Blair Upper Cervical Chiropractic Society leadership. This peer-nominated honor represents the highest recognition available within the Blair practitioner community. |
3. Dr. Jon Chung: Royal Palm Beach, Florida
Practice: HealthSmart Chiropractic
Specialty: NUCCA + Functional Neurology (DACNB)
Experience: 15+ years
Location: 420 S. State Rd 7, #170, Royal Palm Beach, FL 33414
Credentials & Specialization
Dr. Jonathan Chung holds a rare dual specialization that places him in a category occupied by few practitioners worldwide: board certification in both NUCCA upper cervical chiropractic and chiropractic neurology (DACNB – Diplomate of the American Chiropractic Neurology Board).
This combination allows Dr. Chung to address complex neurological conditions through precise upper cervical corrections while simultaneously employing functional neurology protocols, including sensory integration, vestibular rehabilitation, and brain-based therapies.
Clinical Approach & Methodology
Dr. Chung’s practice integrates:
- Vertigo
- Vestibular/Balance Disorders
- Post-Concussion Symptoms
- Chronic Pain
- Migraine headache
- Craniofacial Pain
This comprehensive approach makes Dr. Chung’s practice particularly effective for patients with:
- Treatment-resistant migraines
- Concussion and post-concussion syndrome
- Vertigo and dizziness
- Neurological movement disorders
- Cognitive dysfunction and brain fog
| Notable Achievements |
|---|
| Dr. Chung serves as both a clinician and educator at the Sherman College of Chiropractic and the ICA Upper Cervical Council. He is a fellow of the American College of Functional Neurology (ACFN), representing advanced training beyond standard chiropractic education. |
4. Dr. Josh Levine: Coral Springs, Florida
Practice: Friends & Family Spinal Care
Specialty: NUCCA
Experience: 12+ years (since 2014)
Location: 4674 Coral Ridge Drive, Coral Springs, FL 33076
Credentials & Specialization
Dr. Josh Levine completed his Doctor of Chiropractic degree at Life University in Marietta, Georgia, in 2014, and immediately pursued advanced NUCCA certification upon graduation. Since joining Friends & Family Spinal Care, Dr. Levine has focused exclusively on NUCCA upper cervical care, treating thousands of patients with precise, gentle corrections.
As part of South Florida’s premier NUCCA facility, Dr. Levine works within a team environment where complex cases are reviewed collaboratively, multiple doctors provide input on difficult presentations, and consistent protocols ensure that every patient receives care that meets the highest NUCCA standards.
Clinical Approach & Methodology
Dr. Levine employs the same comprehensive diagnostic and treatment protocols as Dr. Justin Brown at Friends & Family Spinal Care, including:
- Detailed structural and functional assessment
- Advanced neurological testing
- 3D digital X-ray analysis when indicated
- Precise NUCCA corrections using biomechanical calculations
- Ongoing monitoring with follow-up assessments
| Notable Achievements |
|---|
| Dr. Levine has built a strong reputation for patient education, ensuring every individual understands the science behind NUCCA care, why their specific correction is needed, and how to maximize results through proper post-adjustment protocols. |
5. Dr. Terry McCoskey: Fairborn, Ohio
Practice: Living Well Spine Center
Specialty: NUCCA
Experience: 30+ years
Location: 1145 Channingway Dr, Fairborn, OH 45324
Credentials & Specialization
Dr. J. Terry McCoskey has dedicated more than two decades to NUCCA upper cervical chiropractic care, establishing Living Well Spine Center as a trusted resource for patients throughout the Dayton, Ohio region. As a NUCCA member in good standing, Dr. McCoskey maintains the ongoing continuing education requirements that ensure his protocols remain current with the latest NUCCA research and technique refinements.
Clinical Approach & Methodology
Living Well Spine Center focuses on measurement-guided atlas corrections that address the root cause of neurological interference. Dr. McCoskey utilizes NUCCA’s standardized protocols for:
- Precise X-ray analysis to calculate misalignment angles
- Gentle, controlled corrections using minimal force
- Objective post-adjustment measurements to verify the correction
- Extended holding periods to allow the body to stabilize around proper alignment
The practice serves patients with chronic conditions, including migraines, neck pain, back pain, and neurological symptoms that haven’t responded to conventional medical treatment.
| Notable Achievements |
|---|
| Dr. McCoskey has built a reputation for thorough evaluation and conservative care. His practice emphasizes correction quality over adjustment frequency, with many patients maintaining proper alignment for weeks or months between visits once initial corrections stabilize. |
6. Dr. Kurt Sherwood: Renton, Washington
Practice: Restoration Spinal Care
Specialty: NUCCA
Experience: 36+ years (since 1989)
Location: Renton, WA
Credentials & Specialization
Dr. Kurt Sherwood graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic in 1989 and has practiced in the Renton, Washington, area since then. With over three and a half decades of experience in upper cervical care, Dr. Sherwood is one of the most experienced NUCCA practitioners. Growing up, Dr. Sherwood was exposed to the profession from an early age, ultimately choosing to specialize in the precise, measurement-based approach of the NUCCA technique.
Clinical Approach & Methodology
Restoration Spinal Care specializes in:
- Chronic headache and migraine management
- Neck pain and cervical spine disorders
- Vertigo and balance problems
- Upper cervical trauma correction
- Preventive wellness care
Dr. Sherwood emphasizes the importance of balancing clinical excellence with practice-building, teaching other upper cervical doctors how to deliver exceptional care while building sustainable practices. He has been featured on the Upper Cervical Marketing Podcast discussing the integration of adjustment precision with effective practice management.
| Notable Achievements |
|---|
| With 36 years in practice, Dr. Sherwood has treated generations of patients, often seeing multiple family members over the course of decades. His longevity in a single geographic area demonstrates sustained trust within his community. Dr. Sherwood also serves as an educator and mentor to other upper cervical chiropractors. |
7. Dr. Michael Lenarz: Sedro-Woolley, Washington
Practice: Health First Chiropractic
Specialty: Blair Upper Cervical Technique
Experience: 38+ years (since 1987)
Location: Sedro-Woolley, WA
Credentials & Specialization
Dr. Michael Lenarz earned his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Sherman College of Chiropractic in 1987 and has practiced for nearly four decades. As a Blair Upper Cervical specialist, Dr. Lenarz employs the detailed X-ray analysis and gentle correction protocols that define the Blair technique.
Blair practitioners like Dr. Lenarz use precise imaging to identify the unique anatomical variations in each patient’s upper cervical spine, then deliver corrections along the specific pathway indicated by that individual’s structure. This highly individualized approach requires exceptional diagnostic skill and precision in adjustment.
Clinical Approach & Methodology
Health First Chiropractic serves patients throughout Washington State and beyond, with individuals traveling significant distances to receive Dr. Lenarz’s expert care. The practice focuses on:
- Complex neurological conditions
- Chronic pain syndromes
- Headache and migraine disorders
- Post-injury upper cervical correction
- General wellness optimization
| Notable Achievements |
|---|
| Dr. Lenarz has built Health First Chiropractic into one of the Pacific Northwest’s most respected Blair practices. His long tenure in practice demonstrates both clinical excellence and patient satisfaction, as sustained success over decades requires consistent outcomes and positive word-of-mouth referrals. |
8. Dr. Ian Bulow: Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania
Practice: Revive Upper Cervical Chiropractic
Specialty: Blair Upper Cervical Technique
Experience: 10+ years
Location: Cranberry Township, PA
Credentials & Specialization
Dr. Ian Bulow holds multiple advanced chiropractic certifications and has built one of the nation’s premier upper cervical practices at Revive Upper Cervical Chiropractic. In recognition of his clinical excellence and contributions to the Blair community, Dr. Bulow was named Blair Upper Cervical Chiropractor of the Year.
Clinical Approach & Methodology
Revive Upper Cervical Chiropractic serves the Greater Pittsburgh area with advanced Blair technique protocols, including:
- Precision X-ray analysis
- Gentle, specific Blair corrections
- Comprehensive neurological assessment
- Ongoing outcome tracking
Dr. Bulow’s practice has particular expertise with:
- Chronic migraines and headaches
- Vertigo and dizziness
- Neck pain and cervical disc issues
- Neurological symptoms
- Post-concussion syndrome
| Notable Achievements |
|---|
| Despite having “only” 10+ years in practice, Dr. Bulow’s recognition as Blair Chiropractor of the Year demonstrates exceptional clinical skill and peer respect. Dr. Bulow’s leadership within the Blair Upper Cervical Chiropractic Society and his role as past director indicate that senior practitioners recognize him as an innovator and leader despite his relatively shorter time in practice. |
9. Dr. Daiki Ishiyama: Northbrook, Illinois
Practice: HealthSmart (formerly in Asia)
Specialty: NUCCA
Experience: 18+ years (graduated 2008)
Location: Northbrook, IL
Credentials & Specialization
Dr. Daiki Ishiyama holds a unique distinction: he was one of the few NUCCA specialists in Asia and among approximately 300 NUCCA practitioners worldwide. Born in Tokyo, Japan, Dr. Ishiyama graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa, in 2008, then returned to Asia to introduce NUCCA care to a continent where upper cervical specialization was virtually unknown.
Dr. Ishiyama holds dual certifications:
- NUCCA (National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association)
- DCCJP (Chiropractic certification in Japan)
Clinical Approach & Methodology
Dr. Ishiyama’s practice serves an international patient base, including individuals who travel specifically to receive NUCCA care unavailable in their home countries. His protocols include:
- Complete NUCCA evaluation and X-ray analysis
- Precise, gentle atlas corrections
- Culturally sensitive patient education
- Follow-up care planning for international patients
As the sole NUCCA practitioner in Asia for many years, Dr. Ishiyama developed expertise in training patients to maintain their corrections without requiring frequent adjustments.
| Notable Achievements |
|---|
| Dr. Ishiyama’s introduction of NUCCA to Asia represents a significant contribution to global access to upper cervical care. He serves as a board member and director within NUCCA, contributing to the organization’s international expansion and educational initiatives. His unique position as a bridge between American upper cervical chiropractic and Asian healthcare systems has created opportunities for cross-cultural exchange and technique refinement. |
10. Dr. Larry Arbeitman: Morganville, New Jersey
Practice: Upper Cervical Chiropractic of Monmouth
Specialty: NUCCA
Experience: 20+ years (founded practice in 2005)
Location: 280 US Highway 9, Suite E, Morganville, NJ 07751
Credentials & Specialization
Dr. Larry Arbeitman founded Upper Cervical Chiropractic of Monmouth in 2005 with a clear mission: to serve his community by helping individuals and families achieve optimal health through precise upper cervical corrections. As a veteran NUCCA practitioner in Monmouth County, New Jersey, Dr. Arbeitman has built one of the region’s most successful multi-doctor upper cervical practices.
Clinical Approach & Methodology
Upper Cervical Chiropractic of Monmouth offers comprehensive care, including:
- NUCCA upper cervical corrections
- Spinal and nervous system assessment
- Lifestyle guidance
- Fitness evaluation
This holistic approach addresses not only structural misalignments but also the lifestyle factors that contribute to health challenges. The practice specializes in:
- Migraines and chronic headaches
- Vertigo and balance disorders
- Neck pain and cervical issues
- TMJ disorders
- Post-concussion symptoms
- Chronic pain conditions
| Notable Achievements |
|---|
| Dr. Arbeitman’s greatest achievement may be his exceptional team-building ability. He successfully built a thriving multi-doctor upper cervical practice by creating systems, hiring strategically, and fostering a patient-centered culture. He has been featured on the Upper Cervical Marketing Podcast discussing how to build teams that allow upper cervical practices to scale while maintaining quality. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes upper cervical chiropractic different from traditional chiropractic?
Upper cervical care focuses only on the top two vertebrae using precise, gentle corrections without twisting or cracking. Traditional chiropractic typically adjusts multiple areas with more force.
How long does it take to see results from upper cervical care?
Some patients notice changes right away, while others improve gradually over weeks. Results depend on the condition and how long it has been present.
Is upper cervical chiropractic safe?
Yes. It uses gentle, controlled corrections with minimal force and is considered safe for all ages when performed by trained specialists.
How many adjustments will I need?
Most patients need fewer adjustments over time, with longer periods between visits. The goal is lasting stability, not frequent treatment.
Will insurance cover upper cervical chiropractic?
Many insurance plans offer coverage, but it varies. It’s best to check directly with the provider or your insurance company.
What conditions respond best to upper cervical care?
It is commonly used for migraines, vertigo, neck pain, and nerve-related conditions. It focuses on issues linked to nervous system imbalance.
How do I know if I need upper cervical care?
You may benefit if you have chronic symptoms, past head or neck injuries, or ongoing pain that hasn’t improved with other treatments.
Can children receive upper cervical care?
Yes. The gentle approach is suitable for children and may help with issues such as ear infections, digestive problems, or developmental concerns.
Take the Next Step Toward Relief
If you’re in South Florida and ready to experience the precision and results of world-class upper cervical chiropractic care, Friends & Family Spinal Care is accepting new patients.
Don’t settle for temporary symptom management when you can address the root cause of your health challenges. Whether you’re dealing with chronic migraines, vertigo, neurological symptoms, or pain that hasn’t responded to conventional treatment, NUCCA upper cervical care offers hope.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Friends & Family Spinal Care
4500 N University Dr, Suite 100
Coral Springs, FL 33065
Phone: (954) 807-2719
Office Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Saturday: By appointment
