The Atlas Orthogonal Adjusting Instrument was developed by Dr. Roy Sweat to precisely adjust the atlas. The instrument delivers a compressional shock wave through a metal stylus by the means of a pressure controlled actuator. These compressional shockwaves or adjustments are based on the specific biomechanical changes analyzed from patient x-rays.

The instrument allows Dr. Nygaard to adjust the atlas subluxation with the highest degree of precision used in all of chiropractic while using a force of 3-6 lbs. Many other chiropractic adjustments techniques use 40 to 50 pounds of force.