MRI Shows Subluxation in Whiplash Case Study

2008-01-11Return to Health & Wellness Article Library

In the December 19, 2007 issue of the scientific journal Chiropractic & Osteopathy, is a case study that clearly documented the presence of a subluxation on MRI and showed how chiropractic helped in this case when medical care had previously failed.

This case documented the plight of a 21 year old woman who was involved in an automobile accident. The accident was so severe the woman was unconscious and had to be cut out of her car by rescue teams. She was taken to the emergency room where she suffered a seizure and regained consciousness.

In the hospital, the 21 year old had x-rays and a CT scan. In spite of the severity of the accident, the doctors interpreted these x-ray studies as normal. She was treated for her cuts and released with the advice to return for a neurological evaluation. The neurologists recommended medications for the headaches that the young girl had now developed.

When she finally sought out chiropractic care, she was suffering from chronic neck pain, headaches, and dizziness. Her pain was so severe that she rated it as the worst pain of her life. Her neck range of motion was severely limited and created pain when she moved her head or neck.

Because of the severity of her case, an MRI was ordered. Upon chiropractic evaluation, this study showed that the top bone in the neck (atlas) had shifted to the left. Re-evaluation by the Neuroradiologist concurred with the chiropractor's opinions.

Chiropractic care was initiated utilizing specific adjustments targeted to vertebral subluxations of the upper cervical spine. The care initially was three times per week for six weeks. During this time, the woman showed a 75% reduction of symptoms. In the next four weeks of care, she reported a 100% reduction of her pain.