Business Details
42 Years
experience
Your Trusted NUCCA Chiropractic Care in San Francisco
Align Spinal Care has dedicated itself to providing exceptional care for over 35 years, specializing in the NUCCA protocol. As the only board-certified NUCCA practice in the Bay Area, we focus on precise upper cervical adjustments to correct misalignments without cracking or popping. Our approach prioritizes long-term healing by addressing the root cause of pain through gentle, non-invasive techniques. With expertise in treating migraines, vertigo, neck pain, and TMJ disorders, we combine decades of clinical experience with personalized care.Our team, led by internationally recognized NUCCA instructors, utilizes advanced diagnostic tools and evidence-based methods to restore optimal nervous system function. We emphasize patient education, preventive care, and measurable outcomes, maintaining strict adherence to professional standards while fostering a patient-centered environment. Our commitment to excellence extends to continuous professional development and community health education initiatives.
Services
NUCCA Adjustments
Migraine Relief
Neck Pain Treatment
Vertigo Management
TMJ Therapy
Sciatica Care
Whiplash Recovery
Fibromyalgia Support
Post-Concussion Care
Pediatric Chiropractic
Details
- Year established: 1984
Highlights and features
- 35+ years of specialized NUCCA chiropractic experience
- Board-certified NUCCA practitioners with teaching credentials
- Gentle, non-invasive adjustments without cracking or popping
- Proven results for migraines, vertigo, and chronic pain
- Personalized care plans with measurable progress tracking
Associations and certifications
- NUCCA (National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association)
What people say
Instant relief
Life-changing results
Holistic healing
Expert NUCCA technique
Compassionate care
Services
NUCCA Adjustments
Our NUCCA adjustments precisely correct upper cervical misalignments using gentle, non-invasive techniques. This specialized chiropractic method restores proper nervous system communication between brain and body, addressing chronic pain conditions at their source. Patients experience improved posture, reduced inflammation, and enhanced neurological function through our evidence-based approach.
Migraine Relief
Targeted NUCCA care addresses migraine triggers by correcting cervical misalignments affecting brainstem function. Our approach reduces frequency and intensity of migraine episodes by improving cerebral blood flow and nervous system regulation. Patients benefit from personalized treatment plans focusing on long-term prevention rather than temporary symptom management.
Vertigo Management
Specialized NUCCA adjustments address vertigo caused by upper cervical misalignments disrupting balance mechanisms. By restoring proper neurological communication, our treatment improves vestibular function and reduces dizziness episodes. Patients experience enhanced stability and reduced reliance on medication through our structured care protocols.
TMJ Therapy
Our NUCCA approach treats TMJ disorders by correcting misalignments affecting cranial nerve function and jaw mechanics. Gentle adjustments relieve muscle tension and improve temporomandibular joint alignment, reducing pain and improving range of motion. Patients benefit from non-surgical solutions for chronic jaw discomfort and related symptoms.
Sciatica Care
NUCCA adjustments address sciatica by correcting spinal misalignments compressing nerve pathways. Our precise corrections reduce inflammation and restore proper nerve function, alleviating radiating pain and numbness. Patients experience improved mobility and reduced dependency on pain medications through our conservative, drug-free treatment approach.
People
Dr. Michael Zabelin
Board-Certified NUCCA Practitioner
Graduated valedictorian from Life Chiropractic College West in 1984, achieved board certification in 2005, and serves as NUCCA faculty instructor. With over 35 years of clinical experience, he specializes in complex spinal misalignments and has developed specialized diagnostic tools for the profession.
Dr. Catherine Zabelin
NUCCA Practitioner
San Francisco native and NUCCA specialist with advanced training in post-concussion care. Board-certification candidate with expertise in treating neurological conditions through cervical alignment. Combines clinical excellence with compassionate care for patients suffering from chronic pain conditions.
Questions
What conditions respond best to NUCCA care?
NUCCA effectively addresses migraines, vertigo, neck/back pain, TMJ disorders, and sciatica by correcting upper cervical misalignments that affect nervous system function.
How long until I see improvement?
Many patients experience immediate relief, with significant improvements typically occurring within 1-3 months as the body stabilizes in proper alignment.
Is NUCCA safe for children?
Yes, our gentle technique safely treats children of all ages, including infants, addressing developmental issues and childhood trauma with specialized care protocols.
How often are adjustments needed?
Initial stabilization requires visits every 2-4 weeks, with frequency decreasing as spinal stability improves through our progressive care approach.
What causes misalignments?
Physical trauma (birth, accidents), repetitive stress (poor posture), and emotional stress can all contribute to upper cervical misalignments affecting overall health.
