The atlas vertebra was named after the Greek titan who was punished by Zeus to carry the world and heavens on his shoulders for an eternity. As the first cervical vertebra, the atlas not only carries the skull, but also is responsible for the suspension, equilibrium and management of the spine and skeleton.

Trauma such as whiplash, slips and falls, or any sports injuries can push or pull the atlas vertebra in an even worse position, and therefore may be the cause of many health problems.

When the atlas is misaligned it causes the head to tilt, and the spine compensates the malrotation of the atlas with a rotation down to the sacroiliac joint, trying to maintain the center of gravity. This might cause neck pain and lower back pain, and impacts the entire spine.

At the atlas vertebra, cerebral nerves, arteries, veins, spinal cord and spinal fluid pass through the opening at the base of the skull. Four layers of muscles protect this very important and sensitive area. It's a key position in the body which can affect manifold biomechanical and physiological functions.