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Julie Lovejoy, BFA, AS, DC
Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health, Chiropractic ~ March 26, 2024 ~ Pages 7-15
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Abstract
Objective: This case study described the positive health outcomes following chiropractic care on pain episodes and the quality of life of an 8-year-old male diagnosed with sickle cell disease and birth trauma.
Clinical Feature: An 8-year-old male presented with a diagnosis of sickle cell disease with an average of six to eight pain crises a year that would last 2-30 days. The patient history also revealed the average pain crisis was rated 5 out of 10 to 10 out of 10 in intensity. The patient also suffered from weakness and decreased range of motion of his right arm following shoulder dystocia from a traumatic birth.
Interventions and Outcomes: Over a five-month period of time, the patient received chiropractic care via the Diversified Technique. Subjective findings were obtained by the patient and his parents at each visit and showed improvements in frequency, duration, and intensity of sickle cell pain crises. Posture analysis showed significant improvements in the head and upper torso regions. His persistently flexed right arm improved by 26 degrees of extension and experienced improvements in strength, fine motor skills, and dexterity.
Conclusion: This case reports on the positive health outcomes following chiropractic on pain crises and improvement of the quality of life in an individual diagnosed with sickle cell disease as well as improvement in upper extremity function from shoulder dystocia. Further research is recommended.
Key Words: Chiropractic, adjustment, Diversified technique, Sickle cell disease, pediatrics, pain, vertebral subluxation
