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Brett Berner, DC
Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research ~ March 10, 2025 ~ Pages 1-5
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Abstract
Objective: To report on the positive health outcomes following chiropractic in a patient who was suffering neck pain and daily headaches following spinal fusion surgery.
Clinical Features: A 52-year-old female patient, in otherwise good health, who had undergone C5/6 anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) surgery presented to an upper cervical chiropractor reporting constant, dull neck pain with daily headaches. A radiographic evaluation revealed upper cervical misalignment, postural alterations, restricted cervical range of motion, and increased muscle tone. Computed tomography imaging indicated degenerative changes at C0/1, C2/3, C3/4, and C5/6 without evidence of spinal cord compression. Patient was diagnosed with upper cervical vertebral subluxation.
Interventions & Outcomes: Given the absence of neurological deficits or myelopathy the chiropractor employed the upper cervical chiropractic Orthospinology procedure to address brainstem interference by identifying and correcting subluxations in the upper cervical spine. Subsequently, the patient experienced a reduction in pain intensity and improvement in range of motion following four weeks of care. These benefits persisted during a three-month follow-up period with spaced-out visits.
Conclusion: The positive health outcomes following chiropractic in a post spinal surgery patient suffering from headaches and neck pain is described. Further research is recommended while chiropractors are encouraged to consider specific upper cervical work in similar cases.
Keywords: Upper cervical, chiropractic, adjustment, spinal fusion, neck pain, neck injuries, vertebral subluxation, Orthospinology
