Gait & Sleep Improvements after Chiropractic Adjustments in a Pediatric Patient after Tibial Fracture: A Case Study
Meggen Briscoe DC Bio & Sean C. McIntyre DC Bio
Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health – Chiropractic ~ Volume 2011 ~ Issue 2 ~ Pages 50-53
Abstract
Objective: To review the case study of a two year old patient with gait abnormality due to compensation post-fracture.
Clinical Features: A two year old boy presented with an altered gait pattern and disruption of sleep as a result of a tibial fracture and gait compensation two weeks after cast removal.
Intervention and Outcomes: Physical examination revealed pelvic fixation, leg length inequality, and toe-in gait. Drop table technique and Activator Instrument adjustments were utilized to reduce vertebral subluxations. Normal gait and sleep patterns were restored.
Conclusion: This case study described the chiropractic care of a two year old male with abnormal gait and disrupted sleep habits post-casting due to a tibial fracture. This shows the benefits of chiropractic adjustments in a pediatric patient with gait abnormalities following fracture. More research is warranted to better understand the pediatric patient and the biomechanics of gait after fractures.
Key Words: Tibial fracture, gait abnormality, pediatric trauma, Activator technique, extremity adjustments, leg length inequality, sleep patterns, subluxation, drop table technique
