Resolution of Erb-Duchenne Palsy in a 5-month-old Female Following Subluxation Based Chiropractic Care
Francesco Ferrero, Max Gregor Smith B.A., Joel Alcantara, D.C. and David Russell, D.C.
Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health – Chiropractic ~ Volume 2016 ~ Issue 1 ~ Pages 9-13
Abstract
Objective: To chronicle a case of infantile Erb’s-Duchenne Palsy that resolved during chiropractic care.
Clinical features: A 5-month-old girl medically diagnosed with right-sided Erb’s-Duchenne Palsy and previous physiotherapy presented for care. The infant’s right elbow on flexion/extension, pronation/supination and right shoulder abduction demonstrated decreased passive and active range of motion (ROM). Deep tendon reflexes in both upper extremities were within normal limits. During Moro and ATNR reflex testing, the involved arm did not move.
Intervention and outcome: The patient received care using Modified Diversified Technique characterised as a sustained contact “touch and hold” appropriate for the infant’s age. In addition, adjustments to the elbow were performed along with meningeal stretching. The infant’s clinical presentation resolved with postural improvements full ROM in the affected extremity within two months of initiating care.
Conclusion: This case report suggests that infants suffering from obstetrics palsy may benefit from chiropractic care.
Key Words: Erb-Duchenne Palsy, shoulder dystocia, birth trauma, vertebral subluxation, chiropractic, chiropractic adjustment
