Curtis Fedorchuk, D.C., Douglas F. Lightstone, D.C. & Hector Andino, D.C.
Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research ~ May 18, 2017 ~ Pages 93-100
Abstract
Objective: The purpose of this case study is to consider the effectiveness of chiropractic on structural abnormalities in the cervical spine following failed cervical fusion surgery using Chiropractic BioPhysics® technique.
Clinical Features: A 43-year-old female presented with cervicothoracic pain and stiffness, migraines, shoulder pain, low energy, and decreased performance in activities of daily living. She had previously undergone cervical fusion surgery which did not help her. Initial radiographs revealed a hypolordotic cervical curve measuring -11.1° (ideal is -42.0°) and a left head translation measuring 6.0 mm (ideal is 0.0 mm).
Intervention and Outcome: The patient received chiropractic care 36 times over 3 months using a combination of Diversified spinal adjustments, muscle trigger point therapy, and Mirror Image® adjustments, traction, and exercises as per Chiropractic BioPhysics® technique protocols. Post-treatment radiographs revealed an improvement in cervical lordosis from -11.1° to -23.8°, anterior head translation from 19.8 mm to 10.9 mm, and left head translation from 6.0 mm to 1.4 mm. The patient reported improvements in cervicothoracic pain and stiffness, shoulder pain, energy levels, performance in activities of daily living, and frequency, duration, and severity of migraine episodes.
Conclusion: This case demonstrates the successful improvement of left head translation and cervical lordosis in a 43-year-old female with postural abnormalities and associated cervicothoracic pain and stiffness, migraines, decreased energy and performance in activities of daily living following a failed cervical fusion surgery. It also further supports the evidence that structural correction of the spine helps to resolve neuromusculoskeletal conditions.
Key Words:subluxation, chiropractic, Chiropractic BioPhysics®, PostureRay®, cervical lordosis, posture, radiograph, x-ray, Mirror Image®, adjustment, traction, Denneroll, Impulse®
