The upper cervical spine is one of the most neurologically dense regions of the human body. With the highest concentration of mechanoreceptors in the spinal column, rich afferent projections to the brainstem, and direct influence over vestibular, cerebellar, and autonomic networks, the craniocervical junction is far more than a structural pivot point. For upper cervical chiropractors seeking to deepen their clinical impact, understanding this region through a neuroscience lens transforms how complex cases are identified, managed, and resolved.

Upper Cervical Neurology Essentials is a 15-credit-hour continuing education course designed to bridge upper cervical chiropractic care and functional neurology. Drawing on peer-reviewed research in sensorimotor rehabilitation, cervical proprioception, trigeminocervical pain pathways, cerebellar function, and brainstem neuroanatomy, this course gives clinicians a practical, evidence-informed framework for understanding why some patients respond immediately and others plateau, and what to do next in both scenarios. Core topics include the dentate ligament cord distortion hypothesis, cervical mechanoreceptor science, the trigeminocervical complex, pontomedullary reticular formation assessment, cerebellar and cortical evaluation, autonomic testing, and multimodal neurorehabilitation strategies including gaze stability training, repetitive peripheral nerve stimulation, vagus nerve stimulation, and vestibular therapy.

This course is designed for licensed chiropractors, chiropractic neurologists, and upper cervical specialists who are ready to add neurological clinical reasoning to their existing skill set. It is particularly valuable for clinicians seeing complex cases involving dizziness, dysautonomia, post-concussion syndrome, vestibular migraine, chronic cervicogenic pain, and patients who hold their adjustment but continue to struggle with unresolved symptoms. No prior neurology training is required, though clinicians with functional neurology background will find meaningful depth in the case-based application.

Jonathan Chung, DC, is a chiropractic neurologist and upper cervical specialist whose clinical focus bridges structural correction and functional neurological rehabilitation. His approach integrates the precision of upper cervical technique with the breadth of modern neuroscience, offering a perspective that is both evidence-grounded and practically actionable. Through detailed patient cases spanning POTS, vestibular hypofunction, chronic migraine, dysphagia, and post-concussion recovery, Dr. Chung demonstrates how neurological assessment expands the upper cervical clinician’s ability to lead complex cases with greater clarity and confidence.