The most common primary headache disorder, presenting as mild to moderate dull, non-pulsatile pain described as a tight band or vice around the forehead, temples, or back of the head.
The most common primary headache disorder, presenting as mild to moderate dull, non-pulsatile pain described as a tight band or vice around the forehead, temples, or back of the head.
Clinical Context: While benign, frequent tension headaches can signal poor postural biomechanics and sustained sympathetic tone.
Diagnostic Consideration: Differentiated from migraines by its bilateral, non-pulsatile nature and lack of aggravation by routine physical activity.
Atlas subluxation creates hypertonic contraction of the suboccipital myodural bridges, transmitting constant physical tension directly into the cranial dura.
The cranio-cervical junction (where the skull meets the Atlas and Axis vertebrae) is the primary structural crossroads of the central nervous system. When misalignment occurs here, it can create mechanical traction on the brainstem, impede venous drainage, and disturb autonomic balance. Hope Southlake uses calculated 3D digital imaging to gently reposition these vertebrae without any twisting, popping, or cracking.
It’s not necessarily a sharp throbbing pain, but an unrelenting sensation of heaviness and pressure, as if your head is trapped in a tight helmet or swollen from the inside out.
Read Symptom Guide →Related SymptomYou constantly find yourself rubbing the two hard knobs at the base of your skull. The area feels sore, tight, and tender, making resting your head on a pillow or looking down at a phone painful.
Read Symptom Guide →Related SymptomYou take ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or prescription triptans, and the pain fades for a few hours. But by the next morning or afternoon, the headache returns with a vengeance.
Read Symptom Guide →
After suffering from multiple concussions, a serious back injury, and finding no answers in the traditional medical system, Dr. Kramer discovered upper cervical care. This personal journey fueled his passion for bringing precise, individualized care to the Southlake community.
"We understand how discouraging it is to keep searching for answers and still not feel like yourself. You deserve clarity and a precise path forward."
Advanced testing and examination help determine if upper cervical care is right for you.
Start restoring nervous system function and getting your life back.
What does life look like when your nervous system is finally in balance and your symptoms no longer control your calendar?
Wake up without debilitating head pressure or dizziness
Keep commitments to work, family, and social plans
Achieve deep, restorative sleep that recharges your energy
Reduce dependency on endless prescription rescue medications
Don't just take our word for it.
"Dr Kramer was my answer to constant, severe headaches which were caused by my neck. He identified the issue, and got things working properly again. The relief has been incredible. I'm so grateful."
- Stephanie Kabat
"I came in to this office very afraid for my future, because the symptoms I was having were debilitating. After completing my recommended course of initial treatment, I am excited about the future again. Dr Kramer is incredibly knowledgeable."
- Jessica Gilbert
"Dr. Kramer is wonderful. Takes time to listen to your story and comes up with a treatment plan just for you. Patient specialized care that is evidence based. His treatment has helped me tremendously with symptoms others could not change or even bothered to address. Highly recommend his skilled approach."
- Elizabeth Rose
Hope Upper Cervical Spine Center
500 N Carroll Ave Suite 110
Southlake, TX 76092
Phone: (972) 638-0994
Yes. The suboccipital muscles contract reflexively when the Atlas misaligns to keep your eyes level. Correcting the alignment allows these muscles to finally relax.
Take the first step toward lasting relief and neurological stability. Schedule your consultation with Hope Southlake today.
