Improved Spinal Range of Motion, Quality of Life, Dysponesis & Dysautonomia in a 75-year-old male Following Activator Methods Chiropractic Technique for the Correction of Vertebral Subluxation: A Case Report
David G Russell BSc (Psych), BSc (Chiro), Cert TT
Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research ~ September 12, 2016 ~ Pages 92-96
Abstract
Objective: To describe the impact of therapeutic nihilism on the elderly population, and the improvements in spinal range of motion (ROM) and mobility in a 75-year-old male receiving chiropractic care to correct vertebral subluxation.
Clinical features: A 75-year-old male presented with a 20-year history of low back and neck pain more recently managed with over-the-counter medication. Postural alterations and significant reduction in regional spinal ROM were found in conjunction with vertebral subluxation throughout the spine.
Intervention & Outcomes: Chiropractic care using Activator Methods Chiropractic Technique was provided for the correction of vertebral and extremity subluxations. The patient demonstrated subjective physical improvements in mobility, an improvement from 4/10 to 8/10 in perceived physical health and objective increases in measured regional spinal ROM ranging from 7.1% to 81.8%. Reduction in dysponesis and dysautonomia were also noted through sEMG and thermal scanning.
Conclusion: Chiropractic care to correct vertebral subluxation was associated with improvements in the patient’s presenting musculoskeletal complaints and resultant quality of life. More research is needed to investigate the role chiropractors may play in helping older adults with maintaining an active lifestyle.
Key words: Aging, therapeutic nihilism, chiropractic, Activator Methods, range of motion, vertebral subluxation, quality of life, adjustment
