Translation: Iuliana Tanasescu

The way of treatment

Manual treatment of the upper Neck Spinal Column

We would like to first make the point that we are not presenting the generally accepted "Manual straighten/setting" method but a so called Gentle Impulse Technique. Further there are more such Impulse Techniques that could be used depending on the Doctor's training.
One of the possible therapies is the ATLAS therapy of Arlen; another one would be the therapy technique of Dr. Gutmann / Dr. Biedermann.
The practiced techniques vary and unfortunately so do the outcomes pending available results.

Thus:

1. The ATLAS Therapy of Arlen involves only the ATLAS and gives only one-sided results. This therapy is often repeatedly used.

2. The Therapy of Dr. Gutmann, modified by Dr. Biedermann, involves the upper vertebra ATLAS - C1, AXIS - C2 up to C3 so that the impulse can be inducted at two levels. So all the deviations can be covered.

The used method:

A very low pressure impulse will be inducted sideways of the vertebra.
This is how different reflexes with action on the body are activated and / or how the obstructions/blockings of the vertebra are eliminated.

This is how the tension in the whole body musculature is lowered. Further the coordination, fine motor activity (skilfulness) changes in better and so do the vegetative functions like heart, blood circulation and breath (Arlen method)

After a manual examination and analyse of the position of the upper Neck-vertebra on the Roentgen film the therapist inducts several very strictly defined and very short lasting impulses in the field of the Neck receptors (mostly over the cross extension of the first cervical vertebra - Atlas) (Doctor Biedermann)

As a reaction an immediate improvement of the balance as well as a quick easing of tension of the holding muscular system can be noticed. It can be assumed that through this Impulse, the numerous sensor systems placed in the neck area - which are very important for one's posture - are stimulated. Further through the passing on of the impulse to the brain-placed control-centres a new arrangement becomes possible.

The treatment is to the greatest possible extent painless.
In the case of this treatment method, in contrast to the manual setting/straightening method (Chirotherapy), the treated vertebras are not moved one against another and because of that there are also no crack sounds.

Thus the Atlas therapy of Arlen, respectively the manual therapy of Dr. Gutman is under the condition of correct execution practically safe and can therefore be carried out no matter the age of the patient (to include new born infants)

In case of babies there is often only one treatment session needed.
According to Dr. Heiner Biedermann, around 15% of the treated babies do need a second treatment session in the first year. Also according to his statements, it is important to cease ANY supportive gymnastic exercises during the first three weeks after the treatment session and continue only after these three weeks are over.

Controls should be made later, once when the child is three years old and once before enrolment in the elementary school.
Otherwise, controls are needed only in case of more than one week of permanent distorted head posture or in case of reoccurrence of complaints/problems.

In case of babies where in their family case/cases of "Spinal column Scoliosis" are known, such a control should be made on a regular basis - i.e. every three months.

It has to be said that the manual therapy does not replace other forms of therapy such us ergotherapy, physiotherapy, psycho-motor cal, which should be used if required.

The manual therapy optimises the biomechanics (joint and muscle function) and the central control. (Dr. Hewera)

The manual therapy of the upper Neck Spinal Column for Adults
To perform this therapy with elder children and with adults is much more time expensive due to the fact that the vertebras are fixed in wrong positions and cannot be dislocated that easily.
The frequency of the therapy sessions depends here on the status quo of the patient and could at the beginning of the treatment take place daily or 2-3 times a week (for Arlen Method)
With time, according to each one's specific situation /result of the examination, the intervals between treatment sessions could be of several weeks and even months.

According to the opinion of Dr. Reiner Lensch, additional blockings/obstructions at the level of all Spin Column sections and joints should be manually removed (through Chirotherapy)
Furthermore there are additional osteopathic therapy forms, in particular 'soft part techniques' like "myofascial release" or "muscle energy technique", that have proven themselves in the stabilisation of the treatment success. In some cases there are other physical accompanying therapies (warm/cold, massages, extension, electrotherapy, shock wave treatment) or physiotherapy required.

The manual therapy of the upper Neck Spinal Column helps for:

• NSC complaints
  
• NSC accidents
  
• Dizziness
  
• Impaired balance
  
• Movement disorders ( Spasms, Parkinson)
  
• Chronic backaches
  
• Inter vertebral disc occurrences
  
• Ear sounds (Tinitus)

A routine examination of babies' cervical vertebras (as is now for the hip joint usual) would help many to get already at present read of a part of the future head and backaches.
The cost of such a treatment (Atlas therapy of Arlen) are normally not taken over by the public health insurances (approx. € 21 - 24)

The treatment according to Gutmann / Biedermann method is predominantly private.