Is it really true that every human being is born with a dislocated neck?

By Helen. This research article was first written in 26/7/2017. Read about our personal experience with the AtlasPROfilax® method. Read our testimonials below.

Digging Deeper – Exploring the AtlasPROfilax^® method

According to the Swiss doctor René-Claudius Schümperli – the founder of the AtlasPROfilax® procedure, the proper term for this condition is called a ‘malrotated cervical vertebra’. Located at the very top tier of our spinal column, the bone which is out of alignment is called the atlas. He states that most people walk around with this dislocation for the rest of their lives and are not even aware of it.

Now this is really a proverbial pain in the neck!

It was discovered that the atlas is commonly dislocated in most people, but to differing degrees. Starting at birth, the condition continues on to adulthood. Apparently, if not put in the right place, it can cause us a myriad of health problems, from headaches to back pain, organ dysfunction to nerve and circulatory system problems and also cause negative impact to the eyes, ears, muscles and lymphatic system – just to name a few. It can also become dislocated through abrupt and sudden injury such as whiplash or other traumatic accidents.

Schümperli claimed he could correct the atlas, gently and painlessly, via a ‘massage tool’ that works by manipulating the neck muscles to slot the atlas back into place. He claimed the atlas could be put into place permanently, without needing any further treatments.

Is this all too good to be true? Or could it possibly be one of the most important health modalities available today?

I will be investigating this technique from many different aspects; researching its history, exploring medical studies, testimonials, analysing what other doctors say about it and seeking further clarification. Does the AtlasPROfilax® work? Are their claims really correct?

Endorsed by many doctors and patients worldwide, this method may be a very important link to optimal health and well-being for almost everybody. It therefore must not be judged, dismissed or scrutinised without first looking at all angles. There are doctors who support the modality and provide very positive testimonials, but other experts say the opposite. When there is debate amongst doctors, who can we trust? There is only really one solution. We need to research for ourselves, so we can make up our own minds as to its validity.

Let’s explore this further. I have attempted to go straight to the horse’s mouth for most of this article. Most of the information came from a documentary which interviews Schümperli in person. I encourage you to watch it here. ¹
I have written a personal post about my family and I and our experiences getting the AtlasPROfilax® done, with very successful results, almost 7 years ago. Click here to read.

Atlas subluxation, history and research
An insight into René-Claudius Schümperli – the inventor of the AtlasPROfilax® method

René-Claudius Schümperli stated that he always “felt the need to help people that were suffering.”  Born in Zurich, Rene’s health problems started when he was just 4 ½ years old, when he slipped on carpet and fell onto a ‘sharp as a razor blade’ iron door stop.  The right side of his face was impacted by the fall, but also his atlas became catastrophically dislocated. The dislocation negatively impacted his mental and physical state of health and well-being. A year after the event, he developed severe anxiety and nightmares, hyperactivity, became easily scared, began wetting the bed, had stomach pains and even walked with his feet facing inwards. He continued to struggle at school, repeated school grades and had trouble concentrating.

As a young man, he went to military service and was injured again during wrestling practice. The other soldiers threw him onto his head rather than his back. Afterwards, an x-ray revealed that he had third and fourth vertebrae compression fractures. He suffered from strong headaches and dizziness and the symptoms continued on thirty years later. Seeing many doctors and being told he was mentally ill, he still arrived at no solution. Then a family doctor suggested he visit a vitalogist. (A vitalogist is a specialist who analyses the spine and central nervous system, especially the atlas and axis vertebra. They use hand treatments to correct subluxation. It uses science and natural healing therapies – it is not medically based.) ³

He talked more about the history of chiropractics. In 1895 Daniel David Palmer (the father of chiropractic) opened the first chiropractic school in Davenport, Iowa called the Palmer Infirmary. He was the first to announce that 95% of diseases are caused by a ‘displaced vertebrae, then by luxations of other joints. His son, B.J. Palmer, took over his father’s firm in 1906 and went on to state that the “subluxation” of any vertebra of the spine would cause disease by compressing on the intervertebral nerves. It was only until the 1930s that he found the one and only cause of disease was specifically the subluxation of the atlas vertebra.  He concluded that the subluxation of the spinal vertebra below that atlas was not possible due to their interlocking structures. ⁴

He then trained a chiropractor (name unknown) of his methods, and after some time returned to Switzerland and started his own vitalogy practice. From there, he furthermore stated that the atlas can be out by only a few tenths of a millimetre, either left or right and by 8 different positions. This was a new discovery. Because the dislocation is so subtle, it can’t be detected on an x-ray.

Schümperli met this chiropractor who suggested to him that he become a vitalogist. He followed his advice and became one, practising the atlas re-adjustment on his friends’ atlas’s. But he was unsatisfied at the fact that the atlas needed continual correcting and readjusting; for a lifetime. He visited vitalogists around 100 times, claiming that they did help him but only in the short term. According to Schümperli, vitalogists were still practising ‘incorrect methods’.

Schümperli was even more specific with his claims – that the atlas more specifically is ‘malrotated’ – in the incorrect rotational position in relationship to its natural joint. And after many years of study, in 1993, he espoused his hypotheses: that almost everyone has a malrotated atlas, to varying degrees.

He continued to search for a method where the atlas could be permanently corrected into position, and it was through co-incidence that he finally found the answer. He claimed that on June 20, 1996 was the very first time he performed a permanent correction of a dis-located atlas. It was performed on his former loyal patient and colleague, a man who believed in his theories and abilities. He stated that he became the first man in the world that had a permanently adjusted atlas. It took him a few years more evolving the AtlasPROfilax® method.

Theories about the Atlas – What could possibly cause the dislocation?

This information is provided as part of the AtlasPROfilax® brochure, as well as Schümperli’s interview:

• It is prone genetically in the foetus whilst still in the womb.
  Use of drugs such as epidural for pain management and pitocin to induce delivery. Inducing delivery can lead to prolonged labour and increased likelihood of birth trauma. ⁶
• The use of surgical and other interventions during labour; forceps or suction devices (pulling 50-70 pounds of force) used on the unborn child*
• C-sections can also be very traumatic to the baby as it is pulled out of a small incision.  ⁷ 
• Trauma during labour or after childbirth, which include:
  The pushing, twisting and compression on the infant’s spine while it travels down through the birth canal is stated to be the greatest point of stress on the upper and lower cervical vertebra. ⁸
• Other factors such as the woman lying on her back and medications used.
• Whiplash and other accidents.
• Rheumatoid arthritis.

M.F.Voigts of Voigts Spinal Solutions have written a comprehensive article that speaks more of how dislocation can happen (negative compression) when a woman gives birth, either naturally or as a caesarian section delivery. Read more about it here.

About the Atlas

It was very interesting researching and discovering about the atlas. Here are my findings, noted from both doctors and chiropractors.

The atlas (C1) is the first cervical vertebra just below the skull that holds the head. It was named after the Greek titan who was punished by Zeus to carry the world and the heavens on his shoulders for eternity. Chiropractors and alternative medicine in general believes it to be the most important vertebra in our body. It carries the weight of the head, which is the weight of a bowling ball (10-12 pounds). The atlas, together with the joint surfaces of the occiput, form what we call the ‘craniocervical joint.’ ⁹

The axis (C2) is the second cervical vertebra and is named for its ability to allow the head and neck to turn. The craniocervical joint, together with the axis (C2), all work together as the main functional unit of the locomotor apparatus (the musculoskeletal system which enables movement) and the spine. ¹⁰

Above: The atlas vertebra shown in blue

The atlas and the axis are both different from all other spinal vertebra because they don’t have intervertebral discs (like locks) holding them together and into place like the other vertebra of the spine. There is only cartilage between these joints. They are held in place by a number of long and short muscles and ligaments which allow mobility of the head. This makes them more vulnerable and apparently more susceptible to injury and misalignment. ¹²

But the atlas not only carries the skull; it is also stated that it balances the spine, maintains centre of gravity and provides the entire body’s equilibrium. ¹³ 

There are approximately 1 billion nerves passing throughout our spinal cord. It is the largest nerve in our body, which passes through the atlas. It is responsible for transmitting signals from the brain to every organ and cell in our body. When the atlas is misaligned in any way, it acts as an impediment and compresses the spinal cord and arteries, therefore disrupting this ‘communication channel’. ¹⁴ The posture becomes distorted and leg length is affected. ¹⁵

Chiropractors in general tell us how a dislocated atlas can cause problems. Dr. Philip Greenwood states that atlas subluxation can interfere with the body’s natural ‘righting reflex’. ¹⁶ The righting reflex is the body’s automatic responses to adjusting balance and maintaining equilibrium and is vital for our everyday mobility, such as sitting, standing and walking. The reflex is dependent on vestibular system (inner ears), cerebellum, sensory system (proprioception), and even vision.The body has a self regulating mechanism – it tries to attain correct balance at all times via this reflex. I would suggest that this is a major cause as to why the body and spine overcompensate when the atlas is misaligned. ¹⁷ 

Massive amounts of extra energy are also exerted from the muscles in this constant battle of overcompensation. They are working overtime to try and structurally support the body; the energy that would be naturally dispersed throughout the body to ensure proper function of all systems is being utilised elsewhere. This displacement means the body is using up all its fuel just trying to preserve a healthy state of being. This subtle misalignment can really trigger and compound an array of health problems. ¹⁸

Have a look at these diagrams created by Dr. Daniel O. Clark. They clearly show what happens to the body due to a head/neck misalignment.

The providers of the AtlasPROfilax® method categorise the possible health consequences of the atlas misalignment into two groups: Neurovascular or Musculoskeletal.  ¹⁹     

Neurovascular (of, relating to, or involving both nerves and blood vessels)

• Anxiety
• Headaches
• Attention deficit
• Depression
• Chronic pain
• Epilepsy
• Chronic stress
• Migraines
• Trigeminal Neuralgia (chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal or 5th cranial nerve) ²⁰
• Paresthesias (burning or prickiling sensation) in arms and hands, legs and feet
• Memory loss
• Loss of concentration
• Pinched sciatic nerve
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Nightmares
• Vertigo

Musculoskeletal (of, relating to, or involving both musculature and skeleton)

• Bruxism: excessive tooth grinding or jaw clenching ²¹ 
• Bursitis: painful condition that affects the small fluid filled sacs that cushion the bones, tendons and muscles near joints ²²   
• Irritable colon due to lumbar deviation
• Cervical contractures
• Decreased bladder sacred anchor?
• Worn knee meniscus
• Idiopathic (unknown cause) scoliosis
• Back spasms
• Fibromyalgia: widespread pain and tenderness of the body ²³
• Herniated disk
• Hyperkyphosis: excessive curvature of the thoracic (upper back) spine ²⁴ 
• Lumbar hyperlordosis: arched lower back ²⁵
• Joint immobility
• Lower back pain
• Congenital hip dislocation
• Poor posture
• Carpal tunnel syndrome: disorder of the hand caused by pressure of nerves that run through the wrist  ²⁶
• TMJ Syndrome: problems with the jaw and muscles of the face (relating to the joint or ‘hinge’ that connects the jaw to the bones of the skull) ²⁷  

Supporting studies

Professor M.M. Dr Reiner Seibel, is a scientist and an internationally recognised expert in the field of radiology and surgery. He is head of the Mülheim Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology at the University in Mülheim, Wifen-Herdecke in Germany. The institute specialises in the study of the spine for more than 25 years. Dr Seibel states he has been lucky enough to contribute 21 medical procedures to the science.

Dr Seibel was very interested and curious in Schümperli’s non-scientific claims and decided to carry out a research study to reveal whether they had validity. He used science and technology that was expensive to use, which included MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), multilayer computer tomography (MSCT) and 3D reconstruction techniques. Because of the comprehensive nature of having to continually monitor the condition of each patient’s body via MRI, the study took 5 years to complete, from 2005-2009 and included 114 patients. The patients were chosen without regard to race, sex or age.

Doctors who studied problems associated with the spine were active participants within the study. Initially, 3D images of the atlas were taken to determine whether the atlas was truly dis-located. The images were taken before and after applying Schümperli’s AtlasPROfilax® method. The doctors were surprised at this discovery: the first set of MRI images found that almost 100% of the patients (112 out of 114) had a dis-located atlas, all in variable degrees, rotated to the left and forward.

Then upon treatment, they found the atlas was corrected back into position, with the occipital joint completely covering it. What surprised them was this: not only was the atlas back to its correct position, but the first two vertebrae were as well. ²⁸

Before the treatment, the patients in the study complained of headaches, migraines, buzzing in the ears, vertigo and trouble standing stable on their feet. After the treatment, all of these ailments went away.  Dr Seibel claims he had a car accident which only allowed his head to turn 30 degrees either way. He was only able to watch the reversing mirror when reverse parking. Upon receiving the treatment, his problem was fixed. He was able to turn his head both ways.

Dr Seibel states that the AtlasPROfilax® procedure is totally harmless. Patients received no side effects – there were no injuries or complications. He also states that atlas dislocations can also be found in newborns, therefore encouraging that the branch of biological study called ’embryology’ examines the atlas dis-location in relation to newborns. Embryology examines prenatal development, sex cells, fertilisation, and the development of embryos and foetuses. ²⁹   Further research is required to fully explore this issue further, but at the time of the documentary Dr Seibel was pursuing re-locating the atlas in babies only a few weeks old. He believes that by doing this, many diseases may be prevented from forming as the child grows.

The results from this study have made the AtlasPROfilax® procedure more popular, with practice of this method increasing worldwide. It also opened the door for further research into the health consequences of the atlas being out of alignment for prolonged periods of time. 

Another study was completed by Dr. Noemi Laguna in Mexico. She graduated as a medical doctor and radiologist and also worked for many years in the Mexican Government’s Health Departments and hospitals. The study further observed and validated the degree of malrotation and the tilting of the atlas before and after the AtlasPROfilax® method. It was performed on over 252 patients from 2013-14. ³⁰

In 2007-08, other clinical studies were performed by physicians in Ecuador and Colombia which furthermore validated the effectiveness of the AtlasPROfilax® method in over 900 people. They tested and charted 9 common ailments that pertain to a malrotated atlas.

Chart 1 above: elitepsychology.com.au/documentations/AtlasPROfilax Resume to print and handout.pdf- pg 12

Here are the results of the studies. The initial follow up stage was done two months after treatment and the second was completed a year later. The ‘Total Improvement’ column above shows a significant improvement margin.

Blago Karlić, bacc. radiologystates that he has been using the AtlasPROfilax® method on his patients for 5 years. He performed a ‘mini study’, where he observed postural orientation and stance of each patient. He observed the left/right, forward/back bend position of the body and also leg length, all before and after the method was applied.

67 female and 44 male patients were tested, all varying in ages 12-75 years old. To measure their posture he used photographic and visual observations, as well as the use of measuring instruments; a scoliometer, goniometer and inclinometer to measure angles and degrees of the body.

The sagittal plane is part of what is called the ‘anatomical plane’. It’s used to describe location and movement of the body. The sagittal plane divides the body left and right (see below).

A scoliometer or inclinometer measures the distortions of the torso. ³¹

Using the sagittal plane as reference, he concluded that after 15 days of the group receiving the AtlasPROfilax® method, he found that most gained a significant improvement (70-80%) in left and right body stance.

Once again, he tested the forward and back bend of each patient using the sagittal plane as reference. He found that 50-70% of the patients had incorrect posture, then after applying the method found after 1 month, over 90% of the group improved their posture to a more natural one. He then measured and compared leg length, using an inclinometer: an instrument used for measuring angles of slope or tilt. He found most of the patients had a shorter right leg (70-95%) than left leg (5-30%). After the AtlasPROfilax® method was applied, 15 days later (and also 3 months later), there was 99% improvement, adjusting 3-5mm the correct way.

It was very interesting to observe that in all cases, the most positive changes occurred within the first 15 days. At 1 month showed no change and then at 3 months improved once again. The 1 month period seems to show the body ‘settling in’ to its new state. ³³ I question: did any go through a healing crisis?

The Atlas Profilax procedure

AtlasPROfilax® is a procedure that claims to re-adjust the atlas back into position. Apparently, it’s important to note: getting the AtlasPROfilax® adjusted doesn’t cure disease. It is actually not a medical procedure, but more like a ‘massage’ of the neck muscles, gently manoeuvring the atlas to its correct position. When the atlas reaches its natural position, Schümperli states that it can never rotate out of place again. There are around 400 practitioners worldwide who provide the treatment.

Here is a pictorial diagram of images from this Youtube video here. Sacha van ROOIJ is one of the accredited practitioners demonstrating the method on one of her patients. ³⁴

Images above
1: Her diploma of certification
2: Demonstrating the atlas and axis and the malrotation which occurs.
3: The adjustment tool, which is registered and patented at the European Patent Office
4: Holding the tool
5: Using the tool on her patient

The method is most common in Europe: Germany, Croatia, France, Austria, Switzerland and Italy. It is not as equally accepted in other countries.

Schümperli seemed somewhat disappointed that not all countries embraced the AtlasPROfilax® method, although was pleasantly surprised that Croatia embraced the method very well. He stated in the interview that ‘there is still a long road ahead of us’ for acceptance on a global scale. He believes that this may be due to many people having grown accustomed to accepting disease, pain, therapists and medications as a way of life, and because of this may reject new and simple methods.

My family and I have all completed the procedure a decade ago and we can attest to it working successfully for us. Read our testimonials here for more information about our journey.

The AtlasPROfilax® seems to have had some controversy surrounding it on the internet, where the method of application is in question. Some say that it is applied harshly and can possibly make matters worse. I can only speak for my family and my experiences, and I can attest to the procedure as actually being very gentle. So gentle that my practitioner also treated two of my infants at that time.

The procedure works by using a non-invasive mechanical massage tool, which gently relaxes the muscles surrounding the atlas to gently manipulate it back into its correct position. The device gives off vibration impulses in the alpha field (around 8Hz) and these individually tailored impulses are used on certain acupressure points in the neck. It does not, in any way, touch any part of the spine. It takes only one session and takes approx 1 hour to correct, then a follow up 30 minute session is required to ensure everything is as it should be.

The only time the AtlasPROfilax® treatment cannot be performed is during pregnancy.The difference between standard chiropractic procedures in comparison to the AtlasPROfilax® is that chiropractors correct the atlas using their hands, but it is commonly stated that theirs is not a permanent procedure. The AtlasPROfilax® method claims to offer a permanent solution to this issue, only taking one session to permanently keep the atlas in place.

This may very well be a large missing piece of the health puzzle.

It is also said by chiropractic physicians that chiropractic care is very helpful in complementing the AtlasPROfilax® method. They can be used together to benefit the patient. Mr Robert A Pope is one physician who endorses the AtlasPROfilax® method and also states that continued chiropractic care is beneficial for ongoing spinal and pelvis support. He encourages every chiropractor and their patient receives the method and states that both methods have their role to play. ³⁶

In his book ‘La Libération’, Schümperli claims that upon correcting the atlas many of his patients recovered from mental disorders, viral conditions and addictions. He says that the method is ‘completely safe’ but does take certified and trained specialists to implement. One cannot learn by simply observation, as it is a very refined procedure.  

So what does the procedure cost? On their website, they quote $300 for adults and $250 for children in AUD.  See here for the cost of your country. ³⁷

Benefits observed by René-Claudius Schümperli  

Rene stated that after he applied the procedure to his patients, their reactions were ‘incredible’. Some cried from happiness, some screamed out to express their feelings of freedom. In the documentary, he speaks of his experience adjusting the atlas with people residing in psychiatric hospitals, and many of them cried because of their feeling of liberation from ‘captivity’ of a dis-located atlas. He states that the experience is hard to believe unless you are watching it; it is ‘stunning and beautiful – almost impossible to describe.”

Migraines, headaches, dizziness and back pain all ‘disappear’. He understands that many health problems that plague humanity, both physical and psychological, come from the atlas not being in the correct position. Violence, wars, drugs – all anti-social behaviour – are all offshoots from this prevailing issue. He observed the ‘liberation’ of man both mentally and physically. This is what spurred the title of his book ‘La Libération’.

Controversies

There are controversies surrounding the AtlasPROfilax® method.

These are some issues which have been raised in opposition to the method by other chiropractors and doctors. Here are some common concerns:

They have stated that the instrument seems rough, delivering hard thrusts that look as though it is injuring rather than fixing the atlas. It seemed as though they were locating the atlas even further out of position, even in the wrong direction.

Were they sure they were observing a certified AtlasPROfilax® practitioner? There are other companies that seem to mimic the AtlasPROfilax® method and may work very differently. They did not originate from Schümperli’s method. I have not investigated this any further, but one doctor cautions against using other methods. See Dr. Nebojša Milikić’s comments further down below this article.

According to the AtlasPROfilax® website, an ‘Atlasprof’ has gone through proper training at the Swiss academy.

The AtlasPROfilax® method has also been validated and endorsed via respectable specialist doctors and physicians in Germany, Mexico, Columbia and Ecuador. The studies have been comprehensive, and have used state of the art technology as evidence. The study observed the state of the patients before and after the AtlasPROfilax® method was applied. Read more about Dr Reiner Seibel’s study further up in this article.

It is stated that the procedure works indirectly – it doesn’t touch or manipulate the atlas or the spine in any way. It works by pressing on the muscles around the neck so that the atlas can find its way home (so to speak) and back into the correct position. To an outside observer, it may look as though ‘hard thrusts’ are being applied as the instrument is being used on the neck. Actually, it feels more like someone is providing a firm neck massage. This is my personal observation.

Read further below for doctors who fully endorse and support the AtlasPROfilax® method. There are many other success stories from many different people around the world that can be found on YouTube. 

The practitioner I used was very gentle on all of my family members, including my 2 young children. Read more about our testimonials here.

It is assumed the atlas is not out in all people as claimed by AtlasPROfilax® because x-rays don’t show it.

René-Claudius Schümperli, backed up by Dr Reiner Seibel’s study, stated that the very subtle malrotation of the atlas makes it difficult to see on an x-ray.

“X-ray images of the upper cervical spine are typically overlain by the surrounding bony structures and are not sufficiently reliable for estimating the position of the atlas.” ³⁸

Apparently, many people are not diagnosed correctly for this very reason – the x-rays don’t reveal the problem. An undiagnosed condition: this could mean that a malrotated altas may be the cause of many of their health problems.

They don’t realign everyone.

According to Schümperli, the method can be applied to almost everybody, of any age. It is even safe for small babies only a few weeks old. 

The only exception is pregnant women, or someone with acute fresh fractures of the neck or cervical vertebra.

Even patients with 3 herniated discs and screws in their necks have been treated without issues when conventional therapies could not intervene.

In our family’s experience, Edouard was the severest of cases. He has scoliosis and severe back pain suffered over decades of hard labour and a motorbike accident. After treatment, symptoms immensely improved. He, as well as 2 other adults and 2 children, were all realigned successfully.

They see a patient once, take their money and then run off.

Our practitioner was fully supportive all the way through our visitation. She had excellent customer service before and after treatment. She has been practising the procedure for many years.

This question begs to be asked: is there motivation based on conflict of interest behind such statements?

What would happen if the AtlasPROfilax® method really did prove itself worthy?  Ordinarily, if one was to get their atlas adjusted by a chiropractor, it would take continuous and ongoing sessions in order to improve the misalignment of the atlas. Even Schümperli stated that as the standard, it would take a ‘lifetime’ of these ongoing treatments.

Now let’s say that the AtlasPROfilax® method really does work. In this case, the patient would only need one session to permanently fix their atlas. This may mean profit loss and where conflict of interest may come into the equation.

There are adverse reactions after the procedure and they cover it up by calling it a healing crisis.

They have reported their patients’ conditions getting worse before they get better. Yes, this probably is very true but the testimonies are based on observations the very next day to a few weeks after the method had been applied. Do we know if there has been improvement once the crisis has passed weeks or months later? Evidence of possible reactions and/or improvements seems to strongly vary between different cases. It seems evident that time must be given so the body can self correct. In legitimate studies they have shown positive results begin to show themselves from 3-16 months onwards. Have a look at Chart 1 above in the article which shows the study performed by physicians in Ecuador and Colombia.

Marija Bačić, M.D., states that most of her patients who received the method, “some had more sensations, i.e., side effects, but after a one month period, most patients were very satisfied with their health state.” ³⁹

It seems that most people who receive the AtlasPROfilax® method don’t show obvious signs of a healing crisis, as is the case with our family, but it is said that a more obvious crisis can happen to some.The AtlasPROfilax® website also reiterates that there might be reactions which can occur straight after the method is applied or weeks later in some cases; fatigue, muscle tension in the neck and back, and general exhaustion. Commonly experienced aches and pains may feel worse.

Within Dr. Lawrence Wilson’s website, he wrote a section called Retracing and Healing Reactions where he talks about the ‘health crisis’ in more detail. ⁴⁰

He states there are many different names used that mean the same thing: healing reactions, flare-ups, healing crises, Herxheimer reactions, aggravations, purification reactions, retracing reactions, and exacerbations. 

Furthermore, he states:

“Healing reactions are temporary symptoms that occur with deep healing, at times as a result of retracing. (Retracing is a deep clearing of diseases, toxins, imbalances and other types of trauma to the body.) Healing reactions are welcome signs of healing. In fact, if they fail to occur, one knows that a healing method may offer symptomatic relief, but usually it is not as deep or complete as those therapies that cause healing reactions. Most of the time, healing reactions are mild and may not even be noticed. Once in a while, however, they are annoying and unpleasant.” ⁴¹

He speaks of healing reactions pertaining to different types of healing arts such as: Chiropractic, Conventional Medicine, Natural Medicine, Psychology and Homeopathy. ⁴²  

Apparently, even chiropractors are aware of this process. One states:

“We tell patients that they may have flare-ups throughout treatment. This is a very important communication, because if the patient’s expectation is that there will be a steady and unwavering improvement in symptoms, the flare-up after treatment can feel like a defeat and as invalidation. In adjusting the spine and stretching tissue that has been shortened for many years, it is usually not possible to avoid discomfort and flare-ups. The flare-up can be seen as a good thing because it tends to corroborate our diagnosis and it tells us that we are in the right place. As the chiropractic care continues, pain and discomfort associated with it tends to diminish.” ⁴³

A healing crisis is a very reasonable explanation. It is logical to surmise that if the body is out of balance (via a malrotated atlas) and then returns to its aboriginal state via the adjustment, it will go through a healing phase where it tries to re-adjust and rebalance the entire body. Professionals in their field show how the body becomes imbalanced (refer to images: Health vs Sickness 1 & 2 above by Dr. Daniel O. Clark) by the atlas being out of alignment. Have a look at how distorted the entire body can become. Could such a condition possibly be fixed all in one day?

I didn’t experience any obvious healing crisis, but the outside observer could visually see that the shape of my spine looked more pronounced in a negative way. This lasted a little while. This didn’t stay this way, and years later I look and feel much better. I am certain I had scoliosis and kyphosis.

Someone must be out of their mind talking about conspiracy theories and aliens in connection with the AtlasPROfilax®?

René-Claudius Schümperli wrote a book and within this he talked about certain theories he had pertaining to why the atlas was malrotated in almost all human beings.

In the documentary he states that he ‘doesn’t know’ for sure but has his own theories. He spoke of the connection between the earth tilting on its axis and the atlas in humans and genetic manipulation. He briefly spoke of the theory of ancient genetic manipulations, where humans were deliberately suppressed from realising their full potential. He also stated it could also be ‘God’s punishment’.

Furthermore, from what I could find, apparently the main theory spoke of this: human beings originally were colonised by and made into slaves by aliens to mine for gold which was used to maintain their atmosphere. The aliens kept the humans under control by ‘limiters’. As I understand this, they mean to say that the ‘limiter’ is the misaligned atlas. Over many generations the misaligned atlas became embedded into human physiology because it was never fixed. ⁴⁴

Schümperli did reiterate the fact that the AtlasPROfilax® method is a practical one and has no connection to such theories. I believe that wherever these theories come from, they should remain theories. They shouldn’t taint the validity of the method.

Here are a few abbreviated testimonials of the AtlasPROfilax® method written specifically by doctors around the world: ⁴⁵

Boris Samaržija, M.D.

After treatment by AtlasPROfilax method, I noticed significant reduction of clinical symptoms: minimized or completely reduced vertigo, headaches and visual disturbances (dizziness), mobility of the neck has been significantly improved, intensity of hand numbness has been reduced, as well as the pain in the area of scapulae and shoulder, leg numbness, leg cramps and hip pain have decreased.

Marija Bačić, M.D. family medicine specialist

I have the highest opinion of the AtlasPROfilax treatment and I will continue to recommend it to my patients as a method of choice, if the indication exists.

Vjera Marinov, M.D. anesthesiology specialist

I must admit that I was somewhat sceptical about the procedure. The treatment, performed by expert and experienced hands, using a specially constructed precise instrument, was not at all unpleasant or painful. After the treatment I felt rejuvenated. I would recommend to everyone who has the same or similar problems to visit the AtlasPROfilax centre and try this method, something that could bring permanent well-being.

Nebojša Milikić, M.D. oncology specialist, surgeon

There are many advertisements for Atlas correction, and most of them are

PLAGIARISM and DANGER for your health!!!!!! I use the “AtlasPROfilax“ procedure by

Rene Schümperli. I have been using this technique since 2010. I’ve had about 2600 patients. This therapy IS NOT a “magic wand”, but your overall state will be much better after this procedure!!! It deals with the CAUSE of the problem, whereas medicine and all OTHER TEHNIQUES of treatment merely alleviate the existing symptoms and DO NOT deal with the CAUSE of the problem!!!!!!

Goran Milojković, M.D., specialist of physical medicine and rehabilitation AtlasPROfilax specialist

And I have been doing it for almost six years. I had so many fascinating and incredible results I can’t even talk about as they would seem exaggerated. Improvement regarding pain reduction in any region is common, as well as increased range of movement in all joints, minimized or reduced pain in the head, sinuses, arms, shoulders, scapulae, hands, fingers, legs, knees, feet, reduced weakness of hands and arms, heaviness and fatigue, high blood pressure, fast heart rate, nervousness, but also depression, fatigue, poor concentration, bad memory, hoarseness, dizzies, heavy breathing, cold feet and hands, loss of consciousness, tinnitus, leg cramps, back pain, sciatica, hyperhidrosis, getting tired quickly, indigestion, weak immune system, constipation, incorrect bite, urination problems, and many other health problems.

Conclusion:
Digging deeper made me discover so much more than I expected. The detailed backup studies, doctors’ endorsements worldwide and positive testimonials by many patients give the method a real sense of ‘backbone’. If it really is true that most of us have a malrotated atlas, it would make sense that every person, family, parent, baby and child get their atlas readjusted via the originalAtlasPROfilax® method, founded by Swiss vitalogist René-Claudius Schümperli. It is probably one of the most important modalities one can do for themselves and their loved ones, to achieve the highest levels of health and well being.  

Please note that I receive no monetary gain by writing this article. Read our disclaimer here about all content on this site.

References

1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bVUfOq0nNuk, published in 2013
2. https://twitter.com/AtlasPROfilax/media
3. https://translate.google.com.au/translate?hl=en&sl=de&u=http://www.vitalogie-kaiser.de/vitalogie.html&prev=search
4. https://sciencebasedmedicine.org/the-problem-with-chiropractic-nucca/
5. elitepsychology.com.au/documentations/AtlasPROfilax Resume to print and handout.pdf- pg 3
6-8. http://maximizedliving.com/2011/11/traumatic-birth-syndrome-did-you-or-your-baby-have-a-rough-delivery/
9-10. http://www.atlasprofs.nl/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Atlasprofs-Gutachten-Dr.-med.-Rainer-Seibel-English.pdf & http://drphilipgreenwood.com/atlas-subluxation/
11. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jajcvFOH6m0
12-16. http://www.atlasprofs.nl/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Atlasprofs-Gutachten-Dr.-med.-Rainer-Seibel-English.pdf & http://drphilipgreenwood.com/atlas-subluxation/
17. http://what-when-how.com/parkinsons-disease/postural-righting-reflex-parkinson%E2%80%99s-disease/
18. http://drphilipgreenwood.com/atlas-subluxation/
19.  elitepsychology.com.au/documentations/AtlasPROfilax Resume to print and handout.pdf- pg 5
20. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Trigeminal-Neuralgia-Fact-Sheet
21. “https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bruxism”ruxism
22. www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bursitis/basics/definition/con-20015102
23. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fibromyalgia
24. https://www.spine-health.com/glossary/hyperkyphosis
25. www.sportsinjuryclinic.net
26. www.webmd.com/pain…/carpal-tunnel/carpal-tunnel-syndrome-topic-overview
27. www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/temporomandibular-disorders-tmd
28. “http://www.atlasprofs.nl/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Atlasprofs-Gutachten-Dr.-med.-Rainer-Seibel-English.pdf”English.pdf
29. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Embryology
30.  http://elitepsychology.com.au/documentations/AtlasPROfilax%20Resume%20to%20print%20and%20handout.pdf
31. mhttp://www.scoliosis.org/store/scoliometer.phpeasures
32-33. “http://www.atlasprofilax.ch/fileadmin/IAQA_documents/General_Assembly_2016/Dr_Blago_Karlic_studija_en.pdf”ja_en.pdf
34.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BzR9FCUL1Dg
35.  https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/chiropractic-services.html
36. http://marieatlas.co.uk/written-testimonials/
37. http://www.atlasprofilax.ch/en/information/
38. http://www.atlasprofs.nl/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Atlasprofs-Gutachten-Dr.-med.-Rainer-Seibel-English.pdf
39. http://www.atlasprofilax.ch/fileadmin/IAQA_documents/HYPERLINK “http://www.atlasprofilax.ch/fileadmin/IAQA_documents/General_Assembly_2016/Dr_Blago_Karlic_studija_en.pdf”General_Assembly_2016/Dr_Blago_Karlic_studija_en.pdf
40-41. http://www.drlwilson.com/articles/RETRACING.htm#WHATISRETRACING
42. “http://www.drlwilson.com/articles/RETRACING.htm#WHATISRETRACING”#WHATISRETRACING
43. http://www.goldmanchiro.com
44. “https://boulderchiropracticclinic.com/atlas-profilax-lifetime-atlas-adjustment-myth-busted/”ilax-lifetime-atlas-adjustment-myth-busted/
45. “http://www.atlasprofilax.ch/fileadmin/IAQA_documents/General_Assembly_2016/Dr_Blago_Karlic_studija_en.pdf”arlic_studija_en.pdf

The AtlasPROfilax® Testimonial by Helen

Our Family
27/7/2017

About a decade ago, three adult members of my family received their AtlasPROfilax® treatment for adjusting the slight malrotation of the atlas. Since then, two of my children have also received it.

The atlas is the very first vertebra of the spine which carries the head. The axis lies underneath the atlas. Both are held in place by the musculature of the neck, so therefore are more prone to dislocation than any other vertebra of the spine. Our other vertebrae have bony locks which hold them together. Created by René-Claudius Schümperli, he found that almost all humans, including the unborn foetus and babies, inherit this problem. The malrotated atlas is a major catalyst for all sorts of health issues and if the problem isn’t fixed it is said that these health problems can compound upon themselves and get worse over time. Schümperli found that almost every human being carries this condition with them throughout their lifetime – unless there is intervention of adjustment. This is where the AtlasPROfilax® method comes into place. Please read my detailed article which includes supporting studies and further information about the method, here.

Schümperli claimed that his method of adjustment only takes one session to permanently fix the issue. Our family had come across the method many years ago when Kai was seeking a solution to his spinal disorder. He has had scoliosis for many years, through hard work as a young adult working on building sites, and a motorcycle accident had made his back easily prone to severe pain if he moved it the wrong way. Even bending down too low for him could have been the cause of two weeks of absolute agony, where he’d have to sleep on the floor (a hard surface) to help stop the painful twinges ricocheting through his spinal and sciatic nerves. He was not able to even move his small finger as his back would twinge. It was very difficult for us to watch him in so much pain and feeling helpless – there was nothing we could do to help him at the time.

That is, until he received the AtlasPROfilax® method. Kai was dead set against back surgery so he had to look for another solution. After studying more about the method and reading positive testimonials from others (doctors and patients) who had received the method, he decided it was worth getting it done. What we all liked the most was that there were no continuous sessions to uphold, unlike chiropractic care. Kai had seen many chiropractic doctors in the past but in his experience, he had found that most of them did ‘more harm than good’. Some manipulated his back to the point of agony.

At the time, I also had a few health issues that needed addressing. I was prone to kyphosis (curved upper back) and had really bad pains in my shoulders and neck. My neck would get so tight that sometimes moving my head the wrong way could pull one of my neck muscles. My posture was crooked; I had scoliosis and I couldn’t stand on my feet for too long otherwise I would start to get lower back pains. I had stiffness with my TMJ and jaw bone and I found it difficult to move my head from side to side. The angle of my head movement was only minor.

Christine appeared to have the least amount of symptoms associated with her spine and posture, but she agreed that it would be worth receiving the procedure also.

We drove three hours and back to see a certified AtlasPROfilax® practitioner. We booked in a session for the adults in our family, where she said she could adjust our atlases in one day.

On the day, she showed us an informative 3D video showing the position of the atlas and how looks when it is malrotated. She gently massaged our neck muscles and then used the ‘massage tool’ on certain points on our necks. The tool felt gentle as she guided it to specific spots on our necks. Before long, the procedure was complete.

Our practitioner was both professional and supportive before and after treatment. She answered all of our questions and concerns. A short time later, we went back for a second ‘check up’ appointment.

The improvements that followed were so subtle that none of us experienced a health crisis.  Although my spine visibly looked a little more ‘indented’ within the middle section, my posture was definitely improving. This stayed for a little while but did fix up eventually. My shoulder pain decreased and I was standing up straighter with less effort. I surmised that this could just be the spine moving around to re-adjust itself in its correct position.

The biggest and most obvious improvement noted by all of us was that we were pretty much instantly able to move our heads from side to side to a much larger degree of rotation.

Kai, although he still has scoliosis, lost the severity of pain that he used to experience. He still sometimes gets back pain, but nothing like he used to have. He can sleep on a normal mattress now and is able to manage pain a lot better. 

Years later, my spine and posture has improved immensely. I stand straighter and feel healthier overall. The indentation I had within the middle of my back has gone and so has the kyphosis.

We were all impressed with our successful results, and became even more convinced that the method worked. A few years after the adjustment I had two children – both of which I took to my chosen practitioner to get their atlases adjusted. They were about 4 months old – about the time when both were able to hold their heads up on their own. I remember holding them as she used the massage tool to gently realign their atlases. They are growing up healthy, happy and strong.

The AtlasPROfilax® Testimonial by Kai

This is my testimonial; it’s not an endorsement, just a truth. This truth has helped me and perhaps it will you, too.

Back pain is horrible. It used to be excruciating but now it’s tolerable. The word “dis-comfort” or “minor pain” more accurately describes my experiences of a condition that is still noticeable and very real to this day.

There’s discomfort, there is mild pain, there is pain and then there is agony. An agony so horrible that life is hated, wasted and tormented. Every swear word you can find in your vocabulary of profanities can’t express the ‘spasms of hell’, coming at you again and again – just because you breathed too heavily. Don’t sneeze! – More agony. Oh I could die now, please let me die now. I can’t move, I can’t move. Do not move! The hard floor supports me and holds me safe until I breathed too deeply. Damn, damn, damn – I can’t walk. If I do, I look like a cripple, inching his way around something; a child’s toy, a sleeping dog, a chair in the wrong spot, something higher than a speck of dust. Kill me now – just let it end. Life has no meaning…

I had the Atlas done close to a decade ago and today I am free of the agony I once experienced. Not of scoliosis or other painful conditions, but of agony. The method worked for me and my family and I am just sharing my experience because anything that helps stop pain is worth sharing.

When pain stops, then for me spirituality begins. Why? I see life with more clarity.

The AtlasPROfilax® is not a cure all – it won’t fix your entire life. Life requires those fundamental, coherent and necessary stepping stones. Choose your stepping stones wisely.

The way to choose? When it feels right. Qualitative data sharing with quantitative.

I sincerely hope that the words I write and the truths I speak help you on your journey. Your truths and your experiences are important as well as living a life that’s physically and mentally pain-free.

I, together with my family, have gone through many changes that have made me realise how important humility is. Was this the result of choosing our stepping stones wisely?

When you see yourself without the pain then you see yourself as someone deeply worth loving.

Next time you look in the mirror, ask yourself this one question: “Do I understand that the world I see and interpret requires me?” That is how important you are!

Any modality that takes you from pain to peace is a modality worth researching and perhaps participating in.

Truth is a beautiful thing and the AtlasPROfilax® truthfully worked for me.

I wish you peace.