Improved Quality of Life of in a Patient with Aicardi Syndrome Undergoing Chiropractic Care: A Retrospective Case Study
Joseph D. Heinecke DC
Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health – Chiropractic ~ Volume 2015 ~ Issue 1 ~ Pages 15-25
Abstract
Objective: The goal of this retrospective case study is to demonstrate an increased quality of life for a patient with Aicardi syndrome undergoing subluxation based chiropractic care.
Clinical Features: An adopted four-year-old girl presented to the clinic with a diagnosis of Aicardi syndrome. Additional dysfunctions included right ear deafness, blindness, cleft palate, and sacral spina bifida vera. The patient has a bifurcated right thumb and also presented with circulatory disorders of the lower extremities, hypertension, renal dysfunction, food allergies and esophageal reflux. The chief complaint was irritability which included prolonged crying, general dislike of touch and self-injurious behavior (SIB).
Interventions and Outcomes: The patient’s total duration of care was approximately 23 months with a total of 46 visits. The patient was initially under chiropractic care using Diversified Technique, followed by Activator Technique, and lastly, SOT Cranial Technique. During care the patient increased in weight, while previously her weight remained unchanged for an entire year. She also ceased to exhibit SIB, demonstrating greater periods of calm. Also noted was a decrease in stress in the life of the caregiver.
Conclusion: Chiropractic care can be of great benefit in improving the quality of life in a patient with Aicardi syndrome and other congenital abnormalities.
Key Words: Chiropractic, Aicardi Syndrome, quality of life, self-injurious behavior, Activator, Diversified, Sacro Occipital Technique, SOT Cranial Technique, vertebral subluxation, adjustment, spinal manipulation
