CASE STUDY
Resolution of Trigeminal Neuralgia Following Subluxation Based Chiropractic Care: A Case Study & Review of Literature
Eric Zielinski, B.A. Bio & Michael Acanfora, D.C. Bio
Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research ~ August 12, 2013 ~ Pages 33-45
Abstract
Objective: Since the first century A.D., trigeminal neuralgia (TN) has been regarded as one of the most painful and enigmatic diseases known to man. It has been generally accepted that patients will never be completely free from the condition regardless of the therapy. This case study highlights how chiropractic care has overcome this stigma in a patient who has been relieved of this disease now for over eight years.
Clinical Features: Forty year old female presented with right sided TN of six months duration. History included only one major finding of a root canal adjacent to affected area three months prior to onset of painful paroxysms. Patient rated pain 10++ out of 10 on the visual analog scale. Prescriptions included fifteen analgesics including morphine, oxycontin, and percocet. Chiropractic examination revealed upper cervical subluxations. A-P and lateral cervical x-ray analysis determined right C1 laterality and loss of cervical curve.
Intervention and Outcome: Diversified adjusting technique and supine rotary breaks to C1 and C2 were utilized. After first adjustment, the pain resolved and patient discontinued use of medications. After eight years of maintenance care, she has not experienced any relapse.
Conclusion: This case demonstrates a situation in which chiropractic care has helped a patient successfully manage the debilitating paroxysms of trigeminal neuralgia. Further research is advised to prove whether or not chiropractic should be the first intervention employed in treating TN.
Key Words: Chiropractic; subluxation; diversified technique; [atypical] trigeminal neuralgia; neuropathic pain; antiepileptic drugs; microvascular compression surgery; suicide
