CURRENT RESEARCH
CURRENT RESEARCH
Advancing NUCCA Research: Current Projects in 2026
The Upper Cervical Research Foundation (UCRF) is leading a comprehensive portfolio of projects that strengthen NUCCA care today and build the scientific foundation needed for optimal patient outcomes tomorrow.
Brief Overview of Current Research
🧍 Clinical Outcomes
1. The Optimal Correction of the ASC, Stability, and Quality of Life Impact
At the core of NUCCA care is the Atlas Subluxation Complex (ASC). This study defines what “optimal correction” means by:
- Tracking stability over time.
- Measuring quality of life improvements.
- Establishing standards for long-term correction and patient outcomes.
✅ This work strengthens the gold standard for NUCCA clinical care.
2. Prevalence of the ASC Syndrome in the General Population
This landmark study answers a key NIH question: How common is ASC Syndrome in the general population?
Goals include:
- Establishing a scientific baseline of prevalence.
- Arguing for NUCCA as essential healthcare.
- Opening new collaboration and funding opportunities.
✅ A milestone project with the potential to change NUCCA’s place in healthcare worldwide.
3. Ongoing Blood & CSF Flow Data Review (Migraine Study)
This project analyzes imaging data to study how NUCCA care may influence blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) circulation. It focuses on:
- Migraine outcomes.
- Neurological and vascular function.
- Links between ASC and CSF flow.
✅ A step toward greater scientific recognition of NUCCA’s effect on brain physiology.
⚙️ Mechanisms of Care
4. Anatometer / GSA Validation Study
Accurate posture measurement is one of the most visible outcomes of NUCCA care. This study validates:
- Anatometer – measures pelvic tilt, balance, and C7 deviation.
- Gravity Stress Analyzer (GSA) – multi-plane posture evaluation system.
✅ Reliable posture data strengthens both everyday clinical care and NUCCA research standards.
5. Radiographic Positioning Agreement Study (R.A.S. System)
Accurate x-ray positioning is critical for NUCCA corrections. This study evaluates consistency across clinics and highlights the role of training and experience in accuracy.
A peer-reviewed paper (Johnson, Hasick, Lapenski, Vasquez) is being finalized to establish clearer NUCCA imaging standards worldwide.
✅ Your support ensures studies like this are published and shared, strengthening credibility and patient trust.
🏗 Research Infrastructure
6. NUCCA Practice-Based Research Network (PBRN)
A collaborative research network of NUCCA clinics working together to:
- Accelerate multi-site data collection.
- Reflect real-world practice across diverse patient groups.
- Link NUCCA with larger healthcare research communities.
✅ The PBRN is the backbone for future large-scale studies.
7. Student Research Mentoring Scholarships
Each year, five chiropractic students receive scholarships and mentorship from NUCCA doctors to conduct original research.
- $1,000 award per student.
- Practical mentorship in NUCCA protocols.
- Published outcomes that expand NUCCA’s credibility.
✅ Supporting students means shaping the next generation of NUCCA researchers.
Why This All Matters:
Our research not only improves clinical outcomes but also advances the evidence base required to secure NUCCA’s role in mainstream healthcare. Every study undergoes Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval to ensure patient safety, confidentiality, and the highest standards of research ethics.
These research efforts extend beyond academia—they directly impact how doctors practice, how patients recover, and the further inclusion of NUCCA practitioners within the broader healthcare community.
- For doctors: Validated tools, standardized protocols, and research-backed outcomes build confidence and enhance credibility.
- For patients, evidence-based care provides measurable results and fosters trust in the NUCCA process.
For the profession: Peer-reviewed publications open doors to collaboration, funding, and greater recognition.
Published Findings
UCRF-supported studies have been published in leading journals, including:
- Journal of Human Hypertension
- Biomed Research International
- Journal of Chiropractic Medicine
- Journal of Musculoskeletal Disorders
Explore our Published Findings for more details.
Get Involved
Support Our Research
Your donations fuel ongoing projects and future breakthroughs
Collaborate with Us
Submit a project proposal or contact our team about partnership opportunities.Research & Mentorship Scholarship
UCRF is excited to offer financial support and professional development to aspiring researchers in chiropractic care.