Spine, Back & Neck
Cervicothoracic Junction Dysfunction
Restriction where the mobile neck meets the stiffer mid-back.
Also called: Base of neck pain, C7–T1 dysfunction.
The junction between the neck and the thoracic spine is a transition point between two very different mechanical regions, and it is a common site of restriction in desk-based work.
Because it sits between a highly mobile area and a more rigid one, this junction tends to absorb extra strain when either region above or below is not moving well.
Why this matters
It often accompanies neck pain, shoulder-blade pain and tension headaches rather than appearing on its own.
People frequently notice it as a deep ache at the base of the neck that does not fully resolve with typical neck stretches, since the restriction is often lower than where it is felt.
The brain & nervous-system connection
Where the nervous system fits in
How the head is carried over the trunk affects both the load on the neck and the information the brain receives about head position.
Evaluating this junction alongside the neck above and the thoracic spine below gives a clearer sense of where the restriction is actually originating.
What we look at
We look for patterns, not a single test
- Detailed health history and consultation
- NeuroInfiniti Stress Response Evaluation
- Posture and movement
- Balance and coordination testing
- Eye movement or neurological screening when appropriate
- Grip or motor-function testing when appropriate
- Palpation and spinal function
- Other examination procedures based on the individual
Not every person receives every test. What we perform depends on your history, your age and what the examination shows as we go.
Scope of care
What this does — and doesn't — mean
What we do
- • We evaluate chiropractic and musculoskeletal function.
- • We look at nervous-system-related functional findings that fall within our scope.
- • We assess movement, balance and coordination findings.
- • We measure stress-response patterns with the NeuroInfiniti evaluation.
- • We make individualized chiropractic care recommendations and re-measure over time.
What we don't claim
- • We do not diagnose, treat or cure diseases.
- • Chiropractic care is not a treatment for dementia, Alzheimer's disease or other neurological diseases.
- • Chiropractic care is not a replacement for medical care, testing or medication.
- • No outcome is promised. Results vary from person to person.
Common questions
- Will I be adjusted on the first visit?
- Generally no. The first visit is an evaluation visit. Dr. Geran reviews the findings and makes recommendations at the follow-up visit.
- Do I need imaging before I come in?
- Not usually. If your history or examination suggests imaging is needed, we will say so and help arrange the right next step.
When medical evaluation may be needed
Some symptoms need medical evaluation first. If anything in your history or examination suggests that, we will say so and help point you in the right direction.
Related at Foothills Chiropractic
- Joint Pain & Staying Active — Shoulders, hips, knees, ankles — extremity function matters as much as the spine.
- Achilles Tendinopathy — Pain and stiffness in the Achilles tendon, usually load-related.
- Ankle Pain — Pain or restriction at the ankle, often after an old injury.
- Ankle Sprain — Ligament injury from rolling or twisting the ankle.
Think Foothills Chiropractic might be right for you?
Start Here walks you through what the process looks like, so you can decide whether taking the next step makes sense for you.