People are often surprised at the improvements seen in many different facets of health once they start on chiropractic care. Take a look at these research studies that prove the power of chiropractic and then give us a call to experience it for yourself!
Chiropractic Research from the Chiropractic Essence Health Library
Research Shows That Digestive Problems Can Be Improved By Chiropractic
Dr. TJ Alger, Chiropractor and Owner of Chiropractic Essence in Council Bluffs, IA brings you the latest research about the benefits, cost-effectiveness and safety of chiropractic care on a range of health concerns. As always, feel free to discuss this material, along with any other topics with Dr. Alger and his chiropractic team.
Researchers Discover Possible Link Between Crohn’s Disease and Spinal Problems
According to a recent study, researchers in Japan say there is a possible link between Crohn’s disease and interference to the nervous system from spinal misalignments.
The research was published in the Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research and grew out of a previous study involving more than 3,000 patients with allergic diseases and over 1,000 non-allergic patients. It focused on the relationship between immune function, spinal displacements called vertebral subluxations, and how reducing those displacements resulted in improvement, and in some cases complete remission, of symptoms of Crohn’s disease.
Crohn’s disease causes inflammation in the small intestine but it can affect any part of the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus. The inflammation causes pain and makes the intestines empty frequently, resulting in diarrhea.
There are many theories about what causes Crohn’s disease but none has been proven. The most popular theory is that the body’s immune system reacts to a virus or a bacterium by causing ongoing inflammation in the intestine.
Treatment for Crohn’s disease includes corticosteroids to control inflammation but while these drugs are considered the most effective for active Crohn’s disease, they can cause serious side effects, including greater susceptibility to infection. Immune suppressing drugs are also used to treat Crohn’s disease.
According to Dr. Yasuhiko Takeda, a chiropractor and lead author of the study: “This is why it is so important to develop other means of dealing with this terrible disease. If we can find treatments that enhance the function of the immune and nervous systems perhaps we can help millions of people with this disease without the harmful side effects of drugs.”
Beginning in 1992, the focus of Takeda’s research has been on the relationship between subluxation, allergic disease, asthma, Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel disorder and ulcerative colitis. He became interested in this after observing common patterns of spinal distortions and subluxation in patients presenting with these problems. He observed that many of these people got better following chiropractic care. This convinced him that chiropractic care was the answer to these health problems and that he needed to look into it in more detail.
As Takeda pointed out, “Allergic diseases are a large group of disorders that include: pollinosis, allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, hay fever, bronchial asthma, drug allergies, Crohn’s disease and inflammatory bowel disease to name a few. In Japan alone these diseases affect tens of millions of people. It affects their quality of life in terms of physical strength, immune deficiency, and autonomic imbalance. It doesn’t stop there as it affects their social well-being, schoolwork and on the job productivity. You must also consider the terrible side effects of the steroid medications and immunosuppresants that are given to treat these patients.”
While the results are exciting, more research is needed, according to Dr. Matthew McCoy, Editor of the Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research. “Clearly the results of Dr. Takeda’s study are something to be excited about and they are not surprising considering other research that shows improved immune and nervous system function following chiropractic care,” stated Dr. McCoy.
Chiropractors correct misalignments and related problems of the spine that interfere with how the nerves work. These problems in the spine are called vertebral subluxations and can be corrected by chiropractors with painless adjustments to the affected spinal bones.
Other Digestive Disorders
Including: Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Kidney, Incontinence, Interstitial Cystitis.
The types and frequencies of nonmusculoskeletal symptoms reported after chiropractic spinal manipulative therapy. Leboeuf-Yde C, Axen I, Ahlefeldt G, et al. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 1999:22(9):559-564.
Twenty consecutive patients from 87 Swedish chiropractors answered questionnaires on return visits. A total of 1,504 questionnaires were completed and returned. Twenty-three per cent of patients reported improvement in nonmusculoskeletal symptoms, including:
Easier to breathe (98 patients)
Improved digestive function (92)
Clearer/better/sharper vision (49)
Improved circulation (34)
Less ringing in the ears (10)
Acne/eczema better (8)
Dysmenorrhoea better (7)
Asthma/allergies better (6)
Sense of smell heightened (3)
Reduced blood pressure (2)
Numbness in tongue gone (1)
Hiccups gone (1)
Menses function returned (1)
Cough disappeared (1)
Double vision disappeared (1)
Tunnel vision disappeared (1)
Less nausea (1)
Case study: three year old female with acute stomach problems. Peet JB Chiropractic Pediatrics, 1997;310-11.
This is the case study of a 3 year-old with acute stomach complaints including indigestion and pain that started after a fall off her bed onto the floor. After the fifth visit all of her symptoms resolved.
L5 subluxation: a cause of interstitial cystitis. Hammer W. Dynamic Chiropractic, 1997 (April 7):14.
This is the case of a 28-year-old male who suffered from frequent urination, perineal pain and mild low back and buttock pain. An MRI confirmed a lateral L5 disc bulge and a fixation at L5/S1. After two adjustments to the 5th lumbar vertebrae the patient’s pelvic and urological symptoms disappeared. The paper below discusses the same condition but because the authors are MDs they corrected the problems using surgery.
Lumbar nerve root compression and interstitial cystitis – response to decompressive surgery. Gillespie, L, Bray R, Levin R. British Journal of Urology, 1991;68;361-364.
This paper discusses ten patients with interstitial cystitis (nine females, one male). MRI revealed nerve compression at L5 and after surgery the symptoms in 9 of the 10 cleared up.
The mechanically induced pelvic pain and organic dysfunction syndrome: An often overlooked cause of bladder, bowel, gynecological, and sexual dysfunction. Browning JF. Journal of the Neuromusculoskeletal System 1996; 4:52-667
Pelvic pain and organic dysfunction (PPOD) syndrome is thought to be caused by a lumbar spine problem causing secondary impairment of lower sacral nerve root function. Patients report bladder, bowel, gynecologic and sexual dysfunction.
This is the case of a 29 year-old woman with bilateral and low back pain. Previous chiropractic care gave partial relief but an exacerbation was accompanied by inguinal pain, urinary stress incontinence, loss of genital sensitivity, loss of libido and vaginal discharge. A gynecological exam failed to reveal any pathology.
Lower sacral nerve root involvement, secondary to a L5/S1 disc herniation was found. After the first adjustment the patient initially experienced symptoms (pain and paraesthesia of the genitalia) but within one week, bladder dysfunction had resolved, and the other symptoms were less severe. After 4 weeks, all her PPOD symptoms had resolved.
Lumbar nerve root compression and interstitial cystitis-response to decompressive surgery. Gillespie L, Bray R, Levin N, Delamarter R. British Journal of Neurology, 68:361-364, 1991.
This paper describes nine females and one male who were diagnosed with interstitial cystitis. They described their pain as “severe.” MRI of the lower spine found a lateral compression of the L5 dorsal nerve root. Surgical decompression of the lateral foramina of L5 resulted in immediate relief of urological pain in nine patients and continued symptom free after a six-month follow-up.
As the authors state: “An identifiable lumbar nerve root compression appears to cause urological dysfunction consistent with interstitial cystitis.”
Indigestion and heartburn: a descriptive study of prevalence in persons seeking care from chiropractors. Bryner P and Staerker, PG. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics 1996; 19(5); 317-23.
1,567 persons who consulted eight chiropractors on 2,974 occasions during November 1994 were surveyed. 57% reported indigestion infrequently or more, 71% reported mid-back pain during the previous 6 months and 46% experienced both symptoms during this time. 22% of those with indigestion reported some relief after chiropractic care.
Segmental spinal osteophytosis in visceral disease. Burchett GD J of the American Osteopathic Association 1968; 67(6): 675.
Sixty-one hospital patients were examined and in 88% of patients with gallbladder disease there was lipping from T7-T10; spinal osteophytes (T9-T11) were found in 82% of those with stomach disease. Many sufferers of pancreatic disease had segments T5-T7 involved and 31% of patients with duodenal disease had osteophytes at T9-L2.
Irritable bowel syndrome and spinal manipulation: a case report. Wagner T, Owen J, Malone E, Mann K. Chiropractic Technique 1996; 7: 139-140.
Irritable bowel syndrome, also known as mucous colitis and nervous bowel affects 15-25% of adults. Symptoms include cramping and/or abdominal pain, diarrhea or constipation, ulcer-type symptoms, heartburn and/or upper abdominal indigestion.
In this case study of a 25-year-old woman with chronic irritable bowel syndrome her chief complaint was intestinal pain and diarrhea which was worse during stressful periods which occurred one or two times per week for the past five years.
After her first chiropractic adjustment, she reported that she had not experienced any diarrhea for two days. Her symptoms were quickly alleviated during the course of her care. Two years later she remained symptom free.
Enuresis, spasmodic dysmenorrhea and gastric discomfort: a vertebral subluxation complex entity. Regan KJ Digest of Chiropractic Economics March/April 1990;32(5):110.
Patients suffering from bed-wetting, menstrual cramps and ulcer pains/indigestion were given chiropractic care. MDs performed pap tests, pelvic exams and upper GI studies and were negative for active pathology. One subject did have a true peptic ulcer and demonstrated a desire to be in the study.
“A total of eight subjects in each category were selected and two in each category were not treated (to be used as control studies)..It should be noted here that no one had any low back, dorsal or cervical spine pain prior to being a patient in this program.
“In the dysmenorrhea category, all cases of pelvic pain and severe cramping of the uterus had stopped. All women experienced three menstrual cycles through the duration of their menses. “The bedwetting category demonstrated 50% of the children had stopped bedwetting early in the program, 25% of the children had a 50% reduction in the frequency of occurrences and 25% showed no improvement.
All the patients in the gastric category except one responded to chiropractic care; no one was taken off medication or put on special diet.”
Chiropractic adjustment in the management of visceral conditions: a critical appraisal. Jamison JR, McEwen AP, Thomas SJ. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 1992; 15:171-180.
In this a survey of chiropractors in Australia, more than 50% of the chiropractors stated that asthma responds to chiropractic adjustments; more than 25% felt that chiropractic adjustments could benefit patients with dysmenorrhea, indigestion, constipation, migraine and sinusitis.
The recognition of mechanically induced pelvic pain and organic dysfunction in the low back pain patient. Browning JE. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 1989,12(5):369-373.
Pelvic organic problems that have been shown to respond to manipulative treatment include impairment of bladder, bowel and sexual function.
The side effects of the chiropractic adjustment. Burnier, A Chiropractic Pediatrics Vol. 1 No. 4 May 1995.
This is a case history of J.C. male, 1 year old. The child was diagnosed by a gastroenterologist with post-viral enteritis, c.difficile enteritis, colitis secondary to antibiotic usage, allergic colitis, gastroesophageal reflux with esophagitis, gastric and/or duodenal ulcer disease, duodenitis secondary to congenital or autoimmune phenomenon and club feet requiring surgery. He was on Amoxicillin T, Zantac T, Reglan T, Tylenol T, and Ambesol T.
Subluxation at Occiput/C1 with an Atlas ASRP, Sacrum base posterior.
Original Adjustments: Left occiput ridge meningeal contact for 30 seconds, double notch sacral meningeal contact for 1 minute; structural manual adjustment of Atlas ASRP, left temporoparietal suture adjustment.
Results: Off all medication after first visit. Immediate improvement within 24 hours. Complete resolution within 3 weeks of care. Six months later the child is in radiant health, has had no need for medical care and has been free of medication and over-the-counter drugs. Club feet straightened out without surgery within 1 1/2 months of care.
We invite the Council Bluffs community to learn more about the benefits of chiropractic and the impact it can have on your health. Feel free to reach out to Dr. TJ Alger during his health talks, screenings and other community events with any questions you may have.
TJ Alger, DC
Chiropractic Essence
3424 W Broadway
Council Bluffs, IA 51501
Chiropractic Research from the Chiropractic Essence Health Library
Research Shows That Ear Infections Can Be Improved By Chiropractic
Dr. TJ Alger, Chiropractor and Owner of Chiropractic Essence in Council Bluffs, IA brings you the latest research about the benefits, cost-effectiveness and safety of chiropractic care on a range of health concerns. As always, feel free to discuss this material, along with any other topics with Dr. Alger and his chiropractic team.
Chiropractic Helps in Prevention of Recurring Ear Infections.
In the October 1998 issue of the Ladies Home Journal appeared an article entitled, “Chiropractic Adjustments for Chronic Ear Infections.” This article reviewed several studies showing the effectiveness of chiropractic care for preventing re-occurring ear infections known as Otitis Media or OM.
According to the article, reoccurring ear infections account for over 35% of all pediatrician visits in the United States. Sometimes these infections are due to bacteria and sometimes these are due to a virus. The most common medical care for this situation has been antibiotics, even though antibiotics have no effect on viruses. While the article mentions that the antibiotic may be effective in an acute bacterial infection, they do nothing to stop repeat infections. Research and statistics is now showing that repeated use of antibiotics is contributing to future infections by creating drug-resistant infections. The surgical approach has met with little long term results as the “tubes” placed in children’s ears often come out and usually require a child to be put under general anesthesia to do the surgery.
The article in the Ladies Home Journal states, “Chiropractic care is thought to prevent recurrent infections by correcting misalignments (called subluxations) and allowing normal fluid drainage from the middle ear.” What the article took special note of was that 6 months after the chiropractic care was given to the children in the study, 80 percent had not suffered a recurrence of ear infections.
In closing the article did make a profound statement. They made a recommendation to parents on this subject. “If your child is between ear infections and his doctor suggests ear-tube surgery, ask if you can try chiropractic treatment first.” While we agree with that sentiment, we suggest you not wait for a period between episodes, and you don’t have to “ask” permission from any other doctor to seek chiropractic care. As the sneaker company said, “just do it!”
Conclusion:
“There is a strong correlation between chiropractic adjustment and the resolution of otitis media for the children in this study, which can serve as a starting point from which those in the chiropractic profession can examine their role.”
By the age of three, over two thirds of all children have had one or more episodes of otitis media or middle ear infection. There are numerous problems with antibiotic usage for children with ear infections such as: allergic reactions, GI upset, destruction of the gut’s intestinal flora leading to yeast proliferation and antibiotic resistance. Tubes in the ears have a 98% recurrence of infection within two months while 25% of those with tubes suffer from hearing loss years later.
57 patients 6 months to 6 years old with 3 episodes of acute otitis media (AOM) in the previous 6 months, or 4 in the previous year were placed randomly into 2 groups: one receiving routine pediatric care (32), the other receiving routine care plus osteopathic manipulative treatment (25).
The osteopathic patients had fewer episodes of AOM, fewer surgical procedures, and more surgery-free months and more normal tympanograms. No adverse reactions were reported.
This study suggest osteopathic manipulations may prevent or decrease surgical intervention or antibiotic overuse with children with AOM.
Sisters aged 2 and 4 with chronic ear infections who had received numerous courses of antibiotics over at least two years (no improvement) were adjusted using SOT and Dynamic Spinal Analysis methods. After the first visit, the mother reported that both children were “doing much better.” No more ear infections have been reported.
A baby boy, age 6 months, was scheduled for ear tubes. His atlas was adjusted. His ear infection completely cleared up by the next day. Tubes were never inserted.
Two [girls] aged 3 and 4 with chronic ear infections and upper respiratory dysfunction [received] upper dorsal and cranial adjustments. No more ear infections have occurred since the first visit.
It is the author’s experience that none of the children in his study needed tympanostomy tubes inserted. Within 4 to 7 days of the commencement of the spinal adjusting program, the fluid level behind the tympanic membrane was most often resolved.
Four patients (from 14 months to 7 years of age) who had all had multiple antibiotic regimens responded to adjustments.
“An upset father presented to my office on 4-30-99, with his 9 year old son, who has been having chronic ear infections.”
So begins this case history. The boy had been having ear infections since he was 3 and they had been getting “progressively worse.” Five years prior tubes were put in his ears. The child was scheduled for another ear surgery and to have his swollen tonsils and adenoids removed. Child had been “on and off antibiotics at least every six weeks for the past six years.”
Chiropractic examination revealed subluxation complexes at C2 and C6. After the second adjustment father commented that the boy is “much more alert and is concentrating better at school.” Teachers noticed the improvement.” The boy stopped complaining about his ears after the first adjustment. At a six week evaluation there was no ear effusion in either ear. Tonsils and adenoids were normal size. ENT (ear nose and throat) doctor cancelled surgery. After 5 months, the child has had no ear infections, no sore throats, no colds, no flu and has been on no medications.
Chiropractic care of 401 children with otitis media: a pilot study. Fallon and Edelman. Alternative Therapies March 1998 4(2):93
There is a strong correlation between chiropractic adjustments and the resolution of otitis media for the children in this study, Chiropractors do not treat otitis media or any other malady, rather we correct the cause of the vertebral subluxation and allow the power that made the body heals the body. It happens no other way.
Case study: chiropractic results with a child with recurring otitis media accompanied by effusion. Peet, JB Chiropractic Pediatrics, 1996;2:8-10.
This is the study of a 5 year-old male who had recurring ear infections every three to six weeks for the previous two years. He had been on antibiotic therapy. The child began chiropractic care and for the next six month period had only one infection.
Irritable child with chronic ear effusion/infections responds to chiropractic care. Thomas D. Chiropractic Pediatrics 1997; 3(2) 13-14.
This child had chronic ear effusion infections since birth which continued regularly until 12 months of age. He was adjusted at 11 months for an atlas subluxation. After 8 weeks of care the child had not experienced an ear infection for one month and had not had any drugs or antibiotics since chiropractic care. Improvements in personality and behavior were also noted by the mother, babysitters and the chiropractor.
Allergy airway disease and otitis media in children. Todd NW, Feldman CM, Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol 1985: 10(1):27-35.
Musculoskeletal eustachian tube dysfunction is an important etiological factor for otitis media. The eustachian tube dysfunction manifests primarily by poor ventilation from the nasopharynx to the middle ear, by allowing negative pressure in the middle ear.
The role of the chiropractic adjustment in the care and treatment of 332 children with otitis media. Fallon, JM. Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics Oct 1997, 2(2):167-183.
311 of the 332 had a history of prior antibiotic use. 53.7% of the children had their first bout of otitis media between the ages of 6 months and 1 year and a total of 69.9% of the subjects in the study had their first bout of OM under a year of age. This is consistent with the findings of others.
The children were 27-days-old to five-years-old. The average number of adjustments administered by types of otitis media were as follows: acute otitis media (127 children) 4 adjustments; chronic/serous otitis media (104 children) 5 adjustments; for mixed type of bilateral otitis media (10 children) 5.3 adjustments; where no otitis was initially detected (74 children) 5.88 adjustments. The number of days it took to normalize the otoscopic examination was for acute 6.67, chronic/serous 8.57 and mixed 8.3. The number of days it took to normalize the tympanographic examination was acute 8.35, chronic/serous 10.18 and mixed 10.9 days. The overall recurrence rate over a six month period from initial presentation in the office was for acute 11.02%, chronic/serous 16.34%, for mixed 30% and for none present 17.56%.
Prevention and therapy of serous otitis media by oral decongestants. A double-blind study in pediatric practice. Olson, AL; Klein SW; Charney E. MacWhinney JB Jr., McInerny TK, Miller RL, Nazarian LF, Cunningham D.. et al Pediatrics Vol. 62, May 1978, 679-84.
57% of patients with phyaryngitis were treated on the first day of sore throat with spinal manipulative therapy and salt water gargle. All were symptom free the second day.
100% of patients with laryngitis were treated on the first day of illness, with spinal manipulative therapy and voice function returned to normal within one day.
Characteristics of 217 children attending a chiropractic college teaching clinic. Nyiendo J. Olsen E. J Manipulative Physiol Ther, 1988; 11(2):78084.
The authors found that pediatric patients at Western States Chiropractic College public clinic commonly had ordinary complaints of ear-infection, sinus problems, allergy, bedwetting, respiratory problems, and gastro-intestinal problems. Complete or substantial improvement was noted in 61.6% of pediatric patients of their chief complaint, 60.6% received “maximum” level of improvement while 56.7% of adult patients received “maximum” level of improvement.
Treatment protocols for the chiropractic care of common pediatric conditions: otitis media and asthma. Vallone S and Fallon JM Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics 1997 2(1) 113-115.
This paper is the result of a survey of 33 chiropractors enrolled in the first year of a three year postgraduate course in chiropractic pediatrics with respect to otitis media and asthma. “Spinal adjusting was most commonly used for both asthma and otitis media. The atlas was adjusted in 100% of cases with otitis media and the atlas or axis in 97% of asthma cases. 100% of the doctors adjusted the thoracic region for asthma.
Chiropractic results with a child with recurring otitis media accompanied by effusion. Peet, JB Chiropractic Pediatrics, 1996;2:8-10.
This is a case study of a five year old male with recurring otitis media. During the six months of adjustments, the child had only one middle ear infection with mild effusion. In the previous year, the child had recurring middle ear infections with effusion approximately every three to six weeks.
Cause of eustachian tube constriction during swallowing in patients with otitis media with effusion. Takahashi H; Miura M, Honjo I, Fujita A. AnnOtol Rhinol Laryngol 1996; 105(9); 724-8.
Inflammation in the nasopharynx and the pharyngeal portion of the eustachian tube was considered to be closely related to the tubal constriction, which contributes to tubal ventilatory dysfunction in otitis media with effusion.
Ear infection: a retrospective study examining improvement from chiropractic care and analyzing influencing factors. Froehle RM J Manipulative Physiol Ther 19 (3): 169-177 (Mar 1996).
This was a study of forty-six children aged 5 years and under in a private practice in a Minneapolis suburb. Sacral Occipital Technique-style pelvic blocking and the doctor’s own modified applied kinesiology was employed. Typical care consisted of three adjustments per week for one week, then two adjustments per week for one week, then one adjustment per week. Interestingly, children with a history of antibiotic use were associated with a less favorable outcome.
93% of all episodes improved, 75% in 10 days or fewer and 43% with only one or two treatments. Young age, no history of antibiotic use, initial episode (vs. recurrent) and designation of an episode as discomfort rather than ear infection were factors associated with improvement with the fewest number of adjustments.
Chronic recurrent otitis media: case series of five patients with recommendations for case management. Fysh PN, Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics 1996 1(2):66-78.
The author presents a case series of five patients (ages 0 to 5) with chronic otitis media who had previously been under regular medical pediatric care for this condition for at least six months without resolution. These children all underwent a program of chiropractic case management, including specific spinal adjustments, and responded to care from 3 days to 8 weeks.
All patients had excellent outcomes with no residual morbidity or complications. All had five adjustments to the spine. Of the five, 3 had an atlas subluxation, one had an occipital subluxation and one had an atlas and axis subluxations. These children were adjusted full spine as well.
The response of a patient with otitis media to chiropractic care. Thill L, Curtis J, Magallances S, Neuray P. Life Work 1995; 3: 23-28.
A 19 month old female with a chronic history of acute episodes of suppurative otitis media was on antibiotics over a six month period with no improvement. Antibiotics were stopped and the patient then began a four week course of intensive chiropractic care, with complete resolution at two weeks.
Neurological Fitness Vol. V, No. 2 Jan 1996: Reviewer’s Synopsis of this paper: this patient presented with glassy eyes, a runny nose, and apparent discomfort evidenced by continual tugging at both her ears. The mother reported that her child had been like this over the previous six months. In addition to the antibiotic therapy medical treatment also included weekly steroid injections and inhalants to control asthma…no improvement had been noticed by the mother and several emergency room visits had been required due to asthmatic attacks.
The atlas fixation syndrome in the baby and infant. Gutmann G. Manuelle Medizin 1987 25:5-10, Trans. Peters RE.
This is the case of an 18-month-old boy suffering from recurring tonsillitis, frequent enteritis, and therapy resistant conjunctivitis. He also suffered from colds, rhinitis, ear infections and sleep disturbances.
“Immediately after (spinal adjustment), the child demanded to be put to bed and for the first time slept peacefully to the next morning. Previously disturbed appetite normalized completely. Conjunctivitis cleared completely.”
Author’s abstract:
A 23-month-old female with chronic otitis media had orthodox medical treatment with no relief of symptoms. Conventional medical treatment included numerous regimens of broad-spectrum antibiotics and bilateral myringotomies with tympanostomy tube placement. The tubes were still in place on presentation. Three days after initial adjustment (at C-1) the patient’s ear drainage and pain were noticeably reduced. Child was soon free of all symptoms.
Sore throat, difficulty in swallowing, nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, and alternating diarrhea and constipation Neurological Fitness Vol. V, No. 2 Jan 1996:
This is the case of a patient presented with a history of sore throat, difficulty in swallowing, nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, and alternating diarrhea and constipation. She was also suffering from ear pain and ear discharge related to chronic otitis media of 17 months duration. This condition had resisted several regimens of antibiotics as well as surgery to insert tympanostomy tubes.
Three days after the first adjustment, the ear pain and discharge were substantially reduced. Continued correction of C1 eventually resulted in both ears being clear of exudate. At the time of this report, the patient has been symptom-free for approximately four years.
A comparative study of the health status of children raised under the health care models of chiropractic and allopathic medicine. Van Breda, Wendy M. and Juan M. Journal of Chiropractic Research Summer 1989.
In this study 200 pediatricians and 200 chiropractors were interviewed and asked about their children’s health. More than 80% of the medical children suffered from at least one bout of otitis media while only 31% of the chiropractic children were so reported.
This study has a number of flaws, one being that approximately 25% of the chiropractic children had been vaccinated. Since vaccination weakens the child’s immune system and predisposes to ear infections those children should have been separated from the data. Still the study is quite interesting and may serve as an inspiration for later researchers to do further outcome studies.
Diagnosis and treatment of TMJ, head, neck and asthmatic symptoms in children. Gillespie BR, Barnes JF, J of Craniomandibular Practice. Oct. 1990, Vol 8, No. 4.
The authors note that pathologic strain patterns in the soft tissues can be a primary cause of headaches, neck aches, throat infections, ear infections, sinus congestion, and asthma.
Structural normalization in infants and children with particular reference to disturbances of the CNS. Woods RH Journal Of The American Osteopathic Association, May 1973,72: pp.903-908.
Post-traumatic epilepsy, allergic problems, otitis media and dizziness have been relieved by cranial manipulation.
Blocked atlantal nerve syndrome in babies and infants. Gutman G. Manuelle Medizin (1987) 25:5-10.
Three case reports are reviewed to illustrate a syndrome caused and perpetuated in babies and infants by blocked nerve impulses at the atlas. Included in the clinical picture are lowered resistance to infections, especially to ear-nose-, and throat infections.
Chronic otitis media: a case report. Hobbs DA, Rasmussen SA. ACA J of Chiropractic. Feb 1991;28:67-68.
This is a case study of a 38-year-old female who had previously suffered from headaches and colitis that had resolved after earlier chiropractic care.
Her hearing loss and chronic otitis media symptoms subsided and hearing was restored through chiropractic care and cranial adjustments.
From Neurological Fitness Magazine V.1 No.4, July 1992:
“Dr. Peter Fysh hypothesized that cervical adjustments relieve blockage to lymphatic drainage from the ears.” [Proceedings of the National Conference on Chiropractic and Pediatrics (ICA), 1991;37-45].
From Neurological Fitness Vol. V, No. 2 Jan 1996:
A 33-year-old male patient presented with a feeling of fullness in his ears, hearing loss, and tinnitus. The patient had a history of eustachian tube blockage since childhood. His problems were not relieved by a course of antihistamines.
Following diversified adjusting (primarily C2, C5), audiometry and tympanometry findings normalized and his subjective complaints were alleviated.
Chronic ear infections, strep throat, 50% right ear hearing loss, adenoiditis and asthma. Case history by G. Thomas Kovacs, D.C. International Chiropractic Pediatric Association newsletter. July 1995.
This is the case of a 4 1⁄2 year old female suffering from chronic ear infections, strep throat, (on and off for 4 years) 50% right ear hearing loss, adenoiditis and asthma.
She had been on antibiotics (CeclorT ), developed pneumonia, was on bronchodilators and anti-inflammatory for asthma and given steroids. ENT diagnosed child with enlarged adenoids and scheduled surgery to remove child’s adenoids and to put tubes in her ears.
Chiropractic history revealed cervical (C2), thoracic (T3) and right sacroiliac subluxation. She was adjusted 2x/week for 6 weeks. After 3 or 4 adjustments, the mother noticed “a changed child, she has life in her body again…acting like a little girl again for the first time in 4 years.” After 6 weeks, pediatrician and ENT noticed no sign of ear infection or inflammation. “Her adenoids, which were the worst the ENT has ever seen, were perfectly normal and healthy. Hearing tests revealed no hearing loss.
The family finally told the child’s M.D.s that “all medication was stopped 6 weeks ago when chiropractic care started.” The family was told to continue chiropractic care because it had “obviously worked.”
Chronic ear infections. The side-effects of the chiropractic adjustment. Arno Burnier, D.C. Chiropractic Pediatrics Vol. 1 No. 4 May 1995.
This is a case history of Tim and Patrick, males, ages 6 and 9 with a medical diagnosis of chronic ear infections and who were on multiple courses of Ceclor T antibiotic and Nebulizer T .
After adjustments (Tim – C2, C3, D12/L1, Patrick – Oc/C1, Sacrum) both children have been free of medication and over-the-counter drugs for the past three years.
Sinus Infections
Case report # 1589. International Chiropractic Pediatric Association Newsletter May/June 1998. From the office of Paul Zell, D.C., F.I.C.P.A.
A 12 year old boy, since the age of three, had “non-stop sinus infections every 2-3 months.” Antibiotics were used to control the infections and previous surgeries included removal of the tonsils and adenoids at age 3.
Chiropractor found decreased cervical range of motion at C-2, C-7, T-3, T-5, T-8 and right ileum fixations. By the second visit, antibiotics were stopped and patient was asymptomatic of sinus infection. By the third week of care posture corrected and child was able to carry his head in an upright position. “Both patient and parents are aware of the quality of life that is returning as an apparent result of chiropractic care.
Infections of the ear, nose and throat, Blood HA, Osteopathic Annals 6:11/ November 1978.
“My earliest impression of effective osteopathic manipulation was the relief afforded painfully congested sinus by manipulation of the neck and upper back.”
We invite the Council Bluffs community to learn more about the benefits of chiropractic and the impact it can have on your health. Feel free to reach out to Dr. TJ Alger during his health talks, screenings and other community events with any questions you may have.
TJ Alger, DC
Chiropractic Essence
3424 W Broadway
Council Bluffs, IA 51501
Chiropractic Research from the Chiropractic Essence Health Library
Research Shows That Fibromyalgia Can Be Improved By Chiropractic
Dr. TJ Alger, Chiropractor and Owner of Chiropractic Essence in Council Bluffs, IA brings you the latest research about the benefits, cost-effectiveness and safety of chiropractic care on a range of health concerns. As always, feel free to discuss this material, along with any other topics with Dr. Alger and his chiropractic team.
FIBROMYALGIA SYNDROME – (CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME)
What is FMS according to medical science? FMS is a chronic (i.e. long standing) condition. The patient has muscular pain and tenderness throughout the body and frequently other symptoms like sleep disturbances, fatigue, hearing disturbances, muscle twitches, cold extremities, headaches & migraines, TMJ syndrome and blurred vision. For a diagnosis of fibromyalgia to be concluded, although fibromyalgia can be over diagnosed [1], the patient must exhibit tenderness in a minimum of 11 of 18 pre-defined points on the body (see figures). Have a good look at the location of these points, as I think that along with other evidence they provide a pointer to a possible cause of FMS.
Although the exact cause of FMS has apparently not been discovered and there are various research theories including poor nutrition, stress factors, alterations in the pattern of sleep and changes in neuroendocrine transmitters (serotonin, substance P, growth hormone and cortisol) a common theme which appears to emerge throughout the research is that of poor posture, cervical spine dysfunction and degeneration in the spinal joints.
Hiemeyer et al[2] for example, examined 40 patients with FMS and noted the relationship between posture and tender points. They discuss disappearance of tenderness at a number of the tender point sites following correction of posture and conclude; “flexed posture could be an important factor in generalized muscular pain, and posture therefore should be an essential part of the clinical examination of patients with FMS.”
Muller et al[3] state “In fibromyalgia as well as in low back pain we frequently find disturbances of the posture of vertebral column clinically and radiologically.” Further Buskila et al[4] examined two groups of patients, a control group (59) consisting of patients with leg fractures and a study group (102) with a neck injuries. “FMS was diagnosed in 21.6% of people with neck injuries versus 1.7% of those in the control group” and further “FMS was 13 times more frequent following a neck injury than following a lower extremity injury” and “almost all symptoms were more common and severe in the group with the neck injury”.
Schnur[5] conducted a review of the record of 61 patients with primary fibromaylgia syndrome (PFS) and found “in over 50% of examined patients diagnostic details referred to chronic lumbar and cervical spine syndromes” and chronic lumbar and cervical spine syndromes pre-dispose the person to development of PFS.
A study by Ambrogio et al[6] is interesting if only for the finding that “from a patient’s perspective, neck support is an important part of a comprehensive physiotherapy program.” Thus FMS patients, in a small study, indicate that to have some support for their necks was important to them. This is another pointer, I assert, to the cervical spine being heavily involved in the origin of FMS. In fact, I believe, like others before me, that it is highly likely that a subluxation at the level of the atlas is the causal factor in the generation of FMS, and patients should be checked by professional precision upper cervical chiropractors. Such subluxations not only initiate pain in the neck, head, and shoulders, but also have been shown to directly cause postural distortions[7].
A study by Larsson R, Oberg PA, Larsson SE[8] is interesting because the authors propose “chronic neck pain may increase the transmitter activity of neuropeptides in the upper cervical medulla causing impairment of blood flow in the local muscle” and conclude “an impaired regulation of the microcirculation in the local muscle is of central importance in chronic trapezius myalgia, causing nioceptive pain.” This study, these two studies[9],[10] and many other studies by Larsson et al, show patients with neck and shoulder pain as having reduced blood flow through these painful muscles, further exacerbating the pain. I assert that if your “head is not on straight”, your cervical and shoulder muscles fight to maintain your head erect. These spasms I believe cause the neck, back and shoulder pain associated with FMS. Further atrophy (wasting) of these muscles due most probably to reduced blood flow just compounds the painful problem.
Could it be that an upper cervical subluxation uncorrected over a long period directly causes FMS? Let’s look at Dr Daniel Clark’s (www.uppercervicalillustrations.com) graphic opposite. (Reprinted with permission from Daniel O. Clark, D.C.)
This is what is known in upper cervical chiropractic circles to occur to the body/skeleton when one sustains an atlas subluxation. Now look at the location of the tender points in the previous diagrams. I contend that if you overlay those tender points over this diagram, the tender points will correlate highly to muscle tension caused by the misaligned skeleton. The neck, shoulder, pelvis and knees are all affected by the upper cervical subluxation. The 10 tender points to the top of the body (front and rear) could be caused by the muscles straining to hold the head perpendicular. The others may be due to the unlevel pelvis and corresponding functional short leg. Now think about the earlier references to poor posture and cervical spine disorders in those people with FMS. Is there a connection? I think so.
Not many therapies appear to be successful at alleviating FMS symptoms. One study by Freidman and Nelson[11] does discuss some success with some individuals using “ice water circulating through hollow metal tubes” which was delivered “intraorally for 15 minutes in the posterior maxillary area”. According to the authors, 9 out of 12 patients had “reduced cervical pain perception” and electromyography revealed less upper trapezius signal, or lessening of pain in the trapezius muscles. The authors suggest a “strong trigemino-cervical relationship to neck pain and headache.” There’s that reference to neck (cervical) pain again!
If an upper cervical subluxation is responsible for postural changes, neck pain and the development of FMS as I suggest then upper cervical chiropractic may have a role to play in the treatment of FMS patients.
Like conventional treatment studies however, there haven’t been a lot of studies which demonstrate the efficacy of a chiropractic treatment for FMS, but if you read the chiropractic studies the results appear to be quite favorable.
A study by Blunt, Rajwani and Guerriero[12] of 21 patients consisted of a utilizing “chiropractic spinal manipulation, soft tissue therapy and passive stretching” and the results indicated that “chiropractic management improved patients’ cervical and lumbar ranges of motion .. and reported pain levels”. A study by Hains[13] combining spinal manipulation and ischemic compression found results of “statistically significant lessening of pain intensity and corresponding improvement in quality of sleep and fatigue levels.” Hains and Hains conclude that the “study suggests a potential role for chiropractic care in the management of fibromyalgia”.
In a study of 23 patients with fibromyalgia by Amalu[14] he states “The most common medical treatments for FMS and CFS can include one or more of the following: tricyclic antidepressants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, physical therapy, gentle stretching, low impact exercises, stress reduction, counseling, and lidocaine injections with or without hydrocortisone”. It is not uncommon for FMS or CFS patients themselves to try many treatments including but not limited to physical therapy, massage, acupuncture, mainstream chiropractic, osteopathy, medications and exercise with little to no improvement. As a result of pursuit of these multiple therapies it is also a common for patients to doubt the efficacy of yet another treatment like upper cervical chiropractic.
However, you will note that Amalu’s “treatment consisted solely of corrections to aberrant arthrokinematic function of the occipito-atlanto-axial complex.” In other words treatment to correct dysfunction of the upper cervical spine [C0(skull)-C1(atlas)-C2(axis)]. He uses an upper cervical chiropractic method of adjusting known as Applied Upper Cervical Biomechanics (International Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association-IUCCA) in combination with paraspinal infrared scans to measure the stabilization of the upper cervical joint complex and hence effectiveness of the adjustment.
Amalu found “Upon stabilizing the upper cervical spine .. improvement in the symptomatic profile of both FMS and CFS was 92-100% (VAS[15]) for all 23 patients. Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is mentioned because invariably FMS patients are also diagnosed with CFS. Read the entire case for the patient outcomes.
In conclusion Amalu states “The body of literature detailing the upper cervical spine’s role in affecting global physiology is substantial. Further research into this area of the spine, combined with objective monitoring of neurophysiology, may reveal that chiropractic does indeed offer a consistent conservative solution for patients with fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome.”
We invite the Council Bluffs community to learn more about the benefits of chiropractic and the impact it can have on your health. Feel free to reach out to Dr. TJ Alger during his health talks, screenings and other community events with any questions you may have.
TJ Alger, DC
Chiropractic Essence
3424 W Broadway
Council Bluffs, IA 51501
Chiropractic Research from the Chiropractic Essence Health Library
sResearch Shows That Disc Herniation, Protrusion, or Bulges Can Be Improved By Chiropractic
Dr. TJ Alger, Chiropractor and Owner of Chiropractic Essence in Council Bluffs, IA brings you the latest research about the benefits, cost-effectiveness and safety of chiropractic care on a range of health concerns. As always, feel free to discuss this material, along with any other topics with Dr. Alger and his chiropractic team.
Post-traumatic findings of the spine after earlier vertebral fracture in young patients. Kerttula LI, Serlo WS, Tervonan OA, et al. Spine, May 1, 2000:25(9) pp1104-1108.
Fourteen patients aged 8.8-20.8 years who had a history of wedge-shaped vertebral compression fracture at least one year prior were compared to 14 controls. The majority of the children who had the trauma had disc degeneration and endplate changes while only one of the 14 in the control group had degeneration with endplate damage.
Recurrent low back pain and early disc degeneration in the young. Salminen JJ, Erkintalo MO, Pentti J et al. Spine 1999; 24(3):1316-21.
Out of 1,503 14 year olds 7.8%, reported recurrent low back pain (LBP). The children had MRIs at 15 and 18 years of age and were questioned about their LBP at ages 15, 18 and 22. Those children who showed signs of disc degeneration at age 15 were 16 times more likely to report LBP at age 23.
The study concluded: “Individuals with disc degeneration soon after the phase of rapid physical growth not only have an increased risk of recurrent low back pain but also a long-term risk of recurrent pain up to early adulthood.”
Management of cervical disc herniation with upper cervical chiropractic care: a case study. Eriksen K. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics 1998 21(1):51-56.
A 34-year-old man with severe neck, lower back and radicular pain of 1 year duration had previously received care from multiple medical specialists with little or no results. An MRI of the cervical spine demonstrated a C6-C7 herniated nucleus pulposus. A needle electromyogram examination confirmed the presence of a C6-C7 radiculopathy with radiculopathic changes from C4-C7. X-ray analysis showed that the atlas and axis were misaligned. The patient was adjusted using Grostic procedures by hand. Within one month there were dramatic improvements in all subjective and objective findings At a one year follow-up it was concluded that surgery was not necessary.
Magnetic resonance imaging and clinical follow-up: study of 27 patients receiving chiropractic care for cervical and lumbar disc herniations Ben Eliyahu, DJ. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics Vol. 19 No. 19 Nov/Dec 1996.
Twenty-seven patients with MRI documented and symptomatic disc herniations of the cervical or lumbar spine were given chiropractic spinal care, flexion distraction, physiotherapy and rehabilitative exercises. Post-care MRIs revealed that 63% of the patients had a reduced or completely resorbed disc herniation. 78% of the patients were able to return to work in their pre-disability occupations.
L5 subluxation: a cause of interstitial cystitis. Hammer W. Dynamic Chiropractic, 1997 (April 7):14.
This is the case of a 28-year-old male who suffered from urinary frequency, perineal pain and mild low back and buttock pain. An MRI confirmed a lateral L5 disc bulge and a fixation at L5/S1. After two adjustments to the 5th lumbar vertebrae the patient’s pelvic and urological symptoms disappeared. The paper below discusses the same condition but because the authors are MDs they corrected the problems using surgery.
Lumbar nerve root compression and interstitial cystitis – response to decompressive surgery. Gillespie, L, Bray R, Levin R. British Journal of Urology, 1991;68;361-364.
This paper discusses ten patients with interstitial cystitis (nine females, one male). MRI revealed nerve compression at L5 and after surgery the symptoms in 9 of the 10 cleared up.
Reduction of a confirmed C5-C6 disc herniation following specific chiropractic spinal manipulation: a case study. Siciliano MA, Bernard TA, Bentley, NJ. Chiropractic: The Journal of Chiropractic Research and Clinical Investigation Vol. 8 No. 1 April 1992.
This is the case of a 39-year-old male cable technician who complained of right neck and arm pain. He had a football injury 20 years prior and had some similar, temporary pain at that time. He now had an aching, deep pain running from the base of his neck to the right elbow and sometimes running sharply down his arm. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), thermography and Kronamaz muscle testing apparatus documented a C5-C6 disc herniation. Under chiropractic care the patient became symptom free and a later MRI revealed a reduction in the herniation.
Low force chiropractic care of two patients with sciatic neuropathy and lumbar disc herniation. Richards GL et al. Am J Chiro Med Mar 1990;3(1):25-32.
Two patients with sciatic neuropathy and confirmed disc herniation received chiropractic care. A follow-up CAT scan in the first patient revealed complete absence of disc herniation. A follow up scan in the second case revealed the continued presence of a silent disc bulge at the L3-4 level and partial decrease in a herniation at the L4-5 level. The bulge appeared to have shifted away from the nerve root. Both patients’ pain levels decreased from severe to minimal as they regained the ability to stand, sit and walk for longer periods without discomfort and lifting also became easier. They were able to return to full time work capacity at three and nine months respectively.
Disc regeneration: reversibility is possible in spinal osteoarthritis. Ressel, OJ. ICA Review March April 1989 pp. 39-61.
Osteoarthritis has been regarded as a product of “wear and tear” of the spine. This paper reveals that chiropractic management of osteoarthritis can lead to its arrest and even reversal.
Low back pain and the lumbar intervertebral disc: clinical consideration for the doctor of chiropractic. Troyanovich SJ, Harrison DD, Harrison DE. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, Feb. 1999; vol. 22, no. 2, pp 96-104.
This paper lists various causes of low back pain, noting what findings in patient histories, physical examinations, and diagnostic imaging represent “red flags” that indicate the need for referral to a specialist for surgical intervention.
After patients are screened for red flags, conservative treatment should be the first line of treatment for patients without absolute signs for surgical intervention. The authors concluded:
Chiropractic management has been shown through multiple studies to be safe, clinically effective, cost-effective, and to provide a high degree of patient satisfaction. As a result, in patients . . . for whom the surgical indications are not absolute, a minimum of 2 or 3 months of chiropractic management is indicated.
Reabsorption of a herniated cervical disc following chiropractic treatment utilizing the atlas orthogonal technique: a case report. Robinson, G. Kevin. Abstracts from the 14th annual upper cervical spine conference Nov 22-23, 1997 Life University, Marietta, Ga. Pub. In Chiropractic Research Journal, Vol. 5, No.1, spring 1998.
A 44 year old man with a herniated cervical disc as diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and adjusted utilizing chiropractic care (atlas orthogonal technique) is discussed. His symptoms included severe neck pain, constant burning, left arm pain and left shoulder pain plus paresthesia in the index finger of the left hand. Patient also had diminished grip strength on left hand, a hyporeflexive biceps and triceps on the left as well as a C6 and C7 sensory deficit on the left. The MRI scan revealed a large left lateral herniated disc at the C6-7 level.
By the fifth week of care, the patient’s symptoms of severe neck, shoulder, and arm pain were completely resolved. The patient’s numbness and grip strength improved consistently during the following six months. Comparative MRI obtained 14 months following the initial exam revealed total resolution of the herniated cervical disc.
Treatment of multiple lumbar disc herniations in an adolescent athlete utilizing flexion distraction and rotational manipulation. Hession EF, Donald GD. J Manipulative Physiol Ther, 1993; 16:185-192.
This is the case of a 15-year-old high school athlete with acute low back pain that began after weightlifting in preparation for a football game. MRI demonstrated disc herniations of the lumbar area. Chiropractic care resulted in long-term resolution of the symptoms. Patient returned to playing football.
Correction of multiple herniated lumbar disc by chiropractic intervention. Sweat R. Journal of Chiropractic Case Reports. Vol. 1 No. 1 Jan 1993.
This is the case of a 39 year old patient presenting with severe pain in his lower back, radiating into the buttocks, the thigh and his left calf and foot. A herniated nucleus pulposus at L-4 L-5 and L-5 S-1 was confirmed by Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and surgical procedures were recommended. Chiropractic was begun utilizing the Atlas Orthogonal Percussion Instrument on the atlas vertebrae. After 4 weeks of care, he showed a 50% improvement and was not using medications. After six months of care a subsequent MRI radiologist’s report indicated that a herniation was not present.
Chiropractic adjustments, cervical traction and rehabilitation correct cervical spine herniated disc. Breakiron G. Journal of Chiropractic Case Reports. Vol. 1 No. 1 Jan 1993.
This is the case of a 43 year old female who suffered C5-6 and C6-7 nuclear herniations as a result of an automobile collision causing whiplash. She had a reversal of her cervical curve and extensive soft tissue damage and herniations as seen on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Specific spinal adjustments were administered and a therapeutic exercise program was prescribed along with cervical traction and soft tissue rehabilitation. After 6 months, a repeat MRI revealed that there was a mild posterior bulging of the C5-6 level in the mid line with no evidence for significant disc herniation. The C5-6 area appeared normal.
Lumbar intervertebral disc herniation: treatment by rotational manipulation. Quon, J.A., Cassidy, J.D., O’Connor, S.M., & Kirkaldy-Willis, W.H. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics 1989; 12: 220-227.
A 30 year old computer technician with an L4-L5 disc herniation had relief from back and leg pain after rotational adjustments. Interestingly, there was no change in the pre- and post-CT scans. Commenting on the type of adjustment performed, the authors write: “The treatment of lumbar intervertebral disc herniation by side posture manipulation is both safe and effective.”
Treatment of lumbar intervertebral disc protrusions by manipulation. Pang-Fu Kuo P, Loh Z. Clinical Orthopedics and Related Research, Feb. 1987; 215:47-55.
Out of 517 patients with protruded lumbar discs, 76.8% had satisfactory results. It was concluded that manipulation of the spine can be effective for lumbar disc protrusions.
Lumbar disc herniation: computed tomography scan changes after conservative treatment of nerve root compression. Delauche-Cavallier MC, Budet C, Laredo JD, et.al Spine, 1992; 17(8): 927-933.
This paper describes 21 patients with CT scan diagnosed lumbar disc herniation and nerve root pain. They began chiropractic care and a follow-up CT scan at least 6 months later showed the herniations reduced or disappeared in most patients.
Manipulative Therapy and Rehabilitation of the Locomotor System, second edition, Lewit, K. 1991. Butterworth-Heineman, Oxford, 272. Quoted in the Chiropractic Report July 1992. Vol. 6 No.5.
Spinal manipulation has been shown to successfully resolve disc problems without the need for surgery in most cases.
Chymopapain, chemonucleolysis and nucleus pulposis regeneration. A biochemical study. Bradford DS, Cooper KM, Oegema TR Jr. Spine, and Mar (2): 135-147, 1984.
This paper discusses the ability of the intervertebral disc to heal and regenerate itself.
Bourdillon JE, Day EA, Bookhout MR: Spinal Manipulation, 5th edition. Oxford, England, Butterworth-Heinemann Ltd, 1992.
“There is no doubt that surgery is occasionally the only satisfactory treatment for those with unequivocal signs of protrusion, and the more so with extrusion of disc material. There is also ample evidence in the experience of most manual practitioners to show that, even in the presence of such unequivocal evidence, relief may be obtained by conservative measures including manual intervention.”
Traction and manipulative reduction for the treatment of protrusion of lumbar intervertebral disc – an analysis of 1455 cases. Yefu L, Jixiang F, Zuliang L, Zhengian L. J Traditional Chinese Medicine. 1986; 6:31-3.
This paper documents 1455 cases of lumbar disc protrusion that were reduced by traction and manipulation.
Re-establishing the intervertebral disc by decompression. Neugebauer J. Med Welt 1976;27:19.
The author reports relief in 99% of 30,000 patients with disc protrusion over a 14-year period
Disc regeneration: reversibility is possible in spinal osteoarthritis. Ressel, OJ. ICA Review March April 1989 pp. 39 -61.
Osteoarthritis has been universally accepted as an integral consequence of aging. The condition is considered to be the product of various pathobiomechanical alterations in joint function, a “wear and tear” sequelae. Under chiropractic care this condition may be arrested and even reversed.
We invite the Council Bluffs community to learn more about the benefits of chiropractic and the impact it can have on your health. Feel free to reach out to Dr. TJ Alger during his health talks, screenings and other community events with any questions you may have.
TJ Alger, DC
Chiropractic Essence
3424 W Broadway
Council Bluffs, IA 51501
Chiropractic Research from the Chiropractic Essence Health Library
Research Shows That Immune System Function Can Be Improved By Chiropractic
Dr. TJ Alger, Chiropractor and Owner of Chiropractic Essence in Council Bluffs, IA brings you the latest research about the benefits, cost-effectiveness and safety of chiropractic care on a range of health concerns. As always, feel free to discuss this material, along with any other topics with Dr. Alger and his chiropractic team.
Chiropractic HIV and AIDS
The goal of chiropractic care is to free patients from vertebral subluxations, a serious interference to life and health. Releasing subluxations permits the body to work more efficiently.
Research studies are increasingly revealing that the addressing of “subluxations” has a beneficial effect on many levels of one’s health.
The immune system function is one of the most exciting areas of study in chiropractic. More and more research is pointing to an immune system enhancing effect from spinal adjustments.
AIDS/HIV Research
Chronic Hyperemesis in two siblings with AIDS. Fallon, J Int’l Chiropractic Association Review Summer 2002.
Two male siblings ages 4 and 6 with “HIV infections” and “full-blown AIDS.”
Both boys suffered from severe Hyperemesis (vomiting) associated with a hyperactive gag reflex and were on a liquid diet: the six-year-old by mouth and the 4-year-old by gastric tube. The 6-year-old had a viral load of 1,200 and was on a therapy regime of antiviral drugs. His 4-year-old brother, with a viral load of 1,000,000 was on a cocktail of HIV medications (after the monotherapy failed).
The 4-year-old had a history of chronic ear infections and the 6-year-old had severe learning disabilities. Both boys needed a walker or bilateral canes. The older boy had uncontrollable dribbling.
Spinal examination of the 4-year-old revealed subluxations at occiput/atlas, C1, C4, T4, T9 and Tl2. Spinal examination of the 6-year-old revealed subluxations at C1, T1, and T8 and AS of the right ileum.
Adjustments of the subluxated segments were begun; each boy was initially seen 2 times a week for three weeks.
Within three weeks of initial care the older boy could walk better, he was able to use only one cane instead of two, he ate solid food for the first time since birth, his chronic drooling stopped as did his gagging and vomiting. However, if he went longer than 30 days without an adjustment his gag reflex returned as well as the uncontrolled vomiting.
The younger boy was able to stop the gastric feeding and take his liquid food orally, his vomiting reduced and his chronic ear infections ceased. In a few months he was able to eat solid food. His viral load dropped from 1,000,000 to 5! As long as he was adjusted 1-2 times per month his vomiting did not return.
Not vocalizing well. Absence of T-cells, immune dysfunction, has colds all the time. International Chiropractic Pediatric Association newsletter. November 1996.
This is the case of a male 5 year old who was diagnosed with malformation of cervical spine, severe scoliosis, and occiput position severely anterior to cervical spine. The child was not vocalizing well, had an absence of T-cells and immune dysfunction, and had colds all the time. Surgery had been considered to correct skull positioning.
In the first series of adjustments, we adjusted the lad in a sitting position utilizing the infant toggle headpiece. The Atlas was adjusted ASL.
Child was re-evaluated in native country and medical staff stated that everything was now normal.
Child returned to U.S. for care 6 months later. Vocabulary was now normal. Head position – normal. No colds evident during these months. Scoliosis was greatly reduced.
The effects of specific upper cervical adjustments on the CD4 counts of HIV positive patients. Selano JL, Hightower BC, Pfleger B, et al. Chiropractic Research Journal. 1994; 3(1): 32-39.
All the patients in this group had HIV and full-blown AIDS and were receiving medical treatment. In addition, five patients started chiropractic care. After 6 months, those not under chiropractic care suffered a decline of 7.96% in CD4 levels (and two deaths) while the group receiving chiropractic adjustments experienced a 48% increase in CD4 cell counts.
This indicates that correction of upper cervical subluxation could improve immunocompetence.
Note: The study was originally intended to go on for one year, but after two patients in the control group died of AIDS, Dr. Grostic decided to end the study and put the surviving controls under chiropractic care.
Chiropractic and HIV infection. Martin, C; Journal of the American Chiropractic Association 1995; 3212: 41-4.
This paper reviewed prior work by chiropractors on HIV patients that suggest that vertebral manipulation may have wide-ranging effects. From improvement in symptoms like peripheral neuropathy, to stimulation of immune system components, chiropractic is encouraging to individual well-being. The reduction of stress, education of the patient towards an immunopositive lifestyle and the removal of nervous system interference are the central benefits which chiropractic offers.
We invite the Council Bluffs community to learn more about the benefits of chiropractic and the impact it can have on your health. Feel free to reach out to Dr. TJ Alger during his health talks, screenings and other community events with any questions you may have.
TJ Alger, DC
Chiropractic Essence
3424 W Broadway
Council Bluffs, IA 51501
Chiropractic Research from the Chiropractic Essence Health Library
Research Shows That The Immune System Can Be Improved By Chiropractic
Dr. TJ Alger, Chiropractor and Owner of Chiropractic Essence in Council Bluffs, IA brings you the latest research about the benefits, cost-effectiveness and safety of chiropractic care on a range of health concerns. As always, feel free to discuss this material, along with any other topics with Dr. Alger and his chiropractic team.
Enhanced Phagocytic Cell respiratory Burst Induced by Spinal Manipulation. JMPT 1991:14:399-408.
This study was designed to measure the effect that a Chiropractic adjustment has on the immune system. Blood was taken from each of the patients 15 minutes before and 15 minutes after the adjustment. These results were compared to patient’s blood test who received a sham (pretend) adjustment. The immune response from subjects who received the adjustment was significantly higher after than before treatment, and significantly higher than the response from the sham subjects.
Patients who come in with colds, sore throats, sinus congestion and stomach viruses often remark that their recovery seems to be accelerated by the chiropractic adjustment. Recent scientific developments now lend support to the idea that Chiropractic correction of the subluxation can aid the immune responses of the body by reducing nerve interference.
This is one of the most exciting areas of chiropractic. More and more research is pointing to an immune system enhancement effect of the spinal adjustment.
This is a summary of recent research implying a connection between chiropractic adjustments and immunocompetence. The literature suggests that the nervous system plays a role in the modulation of the immune response and that chiropractic adjustments influence T and B lymphocyte numbers, natural killer cell numbers, antibody levels, phagocytic activity and plasma endorphin levels. The few studies attempting to measure the effect of chiropractic or manipulative treatment on the immune response are reviewed.
The anatomical and physiological connections between the immune system and the nervous system suggest that the nervous system plays a role in the modulation of the immune response.
This is one of a growing number of papers by researchers in the field of psychoneuroimmunology exploring the relationship between the nervous system and the immune system. Potential mechanisms of action are discussed.
Children under chiropractic had less use of medications, including antibiotics.
Receptors for neuromodulators and neurohormones have been identified on human T-lymphocytes. It is believed that the immune system can communicate with the nervous system using neuromodulators and neurohormones secreted by lymphocytes.
Two male siblings ages 4 and 6 with “HIV infections” and “full-blown AIDS.”
Both boys suffered from severe hyperemesis (vomiting) associated with a hyperactive gag reflex and were on a liquid diet: the six-year-old by mouth and the 4-year-old by gastric tube. The 6-year-old had a viral load of 1,200 and was on a regime of antiviral drugs. His 4-year-old brother, with a viral load of 1,000,000 was on a cocktail of HIV medications (after the monotherapy failed).
The 4-year-old had a history of chronic ear infections and the 6-year-old had severe learning disabilities. Both boys needed a walker or bilateral canes. The older boy had uncontrollable dribbling.
Spinal examination of the 4-year-old revealed subluxations at occiput/atlas, C1, C4, T4, T9 and Tl2. Spinal examination of the 6-year-old revealed subluxations at C1, T1, T8 and AS of the right ileum.
Adjustments of the subluxated segments were begun; each boy was initially seen 2 times a week for three weeks.
Within three weeks of initial care the older boy could walk better, he was able to use only one cane instead of two, he ate solid food for the first time since birth, his chronic drooling stopped as did his gagging and vomiting. However, if he went longer than 30 days without an adjustment his gag reflex returned as well as the uncontrolled vomiting.
The younger boy was able to stop the gastric feeding and take liquid food orally, his vomiting reduced and his chronic ear infections ceased. In a few months he was able to eat solid food. His viral load dropped from 1,000,000 to 5! As long as he was adjusted 1-2 times per month, his vomiting did not return.
This paper reported increased levels of immunoglobulins in the blood serum of three patients under chiropractic care. A fourth patient did not respond to care.
The author speculates the vertebral subluxation complex (VSC) acts as a stressor, which causes increased secretion of cortical from the adrenal cortex. If cortisol levels exceed optimum levels, immunoglobulin secretion would be inhibited.
An interesting property of phagocytic cells (polymorphonuclear neutrophils or PMNs and monocytes in this study) is put to use in this study, that is, they emit light during phagocytosis (called “respiratory burst”).
Using 67 male and 32 female volunteers, blood was taken 15 minutes before and after subjects had a sham manipulation, a thoracic spine manipulation or a soft tissue manipulation.
More light was emitted from monocytes and PMNs after spinal manipulation than from the sham or soft tissue work. Substance P (SP) is a neurotransmitter released from the dorsal root ganglion and its plasma level was elevated after the manipulation. SP appears to be able to prime phagocytes for enhanced respiratory burst.
From the discussion: “Thus the data provided evidence that spinal manipulation elicits viscerosomatic responses; specifically, our study shows that manipulation affects cells involved in inflammatory and immune responses, at least over the short term.”
This paper builds upon the one above. Using blood collected from 27 males and 19 females after a manipulation of the thoracic spine, the plasma levels of substance P (SP) and respiratory burst response of PMLNs was found to be higher 15 minutes after manipulation than from blood collected 15 minutes before or 30 and 45 minutes after manipulation. In addition to priming PMNs for enhanced respiratory burst (RB), SP also stimulates production of mononuclear cell tumor necrosis factor (TNF). Mononuclear cells are also primed for enhanced endotoxin-stimulated TNF production after manipulation.
From the discussion:
The data presented confirm and extend our previous reports that a high-velocity, low-amplitude thrust to the thoracic spine primes PMN for an enhanced respiratory burst in response to a particulate challenge. Spinal manipulation also primes mononuclear cells for enhanced endotoxin stimulated TNF production…this has not been previously reported…. Thus these data further support the notion that spinal manipulation elicits viscerosomatic responses….”
This is the study of six males and three females who had their baseline cortisol levels established and then received two-weeks of care (4 adjustments) follow by a two-week post adjustment period.
Saliva samples were analysed and results showed reduction or no increase of salivary cortisol suggesting that chiropractic care had a measurable calming, physically soothing and restorative effect.
The posterior facet joints of four beagles were surgically fused at L1/L2 and L2/L3 by injecting a sealant. T11/12 and T12/13 joints were fused on two of the beagles. Four beagles were used as controls.
The respiratory burst (RB) of the polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) were depressed in the dogs who underwent the surgical fusion in contrast to the 4 dogs who had a sham surgical fusion. The results of this study suggest that spinal joint fixation results in immunosupression.
This was a study to determine if chiropractic care could help individuals diagnosed with HIV.
Five patients were adjusted and five were controls. After 6 months, in the control group (not under chiropractic care), the CD4 levels declined by 7.96% while the group receiving chiropractic adjustments experienced a 48% increase in CD4 cell counts. This indicates that correction of upper cervical subluxation could improve immunocompetence.
Recent research and case history analysis suggests that vertebral manipulation may have wide-ranging effects. From improvement in symptoms like peripheral neuropathy to stimulation of immune system, chiropractic appears to encourage individual well-being.
The reduction of stress, education of the patient towards an immunopositive lifestyle and the removal of nervous system interference are the central benefits which chiropractic offers.
Manipulation of the thoracic spine appeared to increase the sensitivity of the white blood cells as indicated by respiratory burst.
This is the case of a 31-year-old female with spina bifida at T11-L2 who presented with multiple symptoms that included muscle spasms, poor bladder control, recurrent bladder infection, swollen cervical lymph nodes, and possible immunosupression.
Chiropractic adjustments consisted of Logan Basic and other minimal force techniques. After 5 years of chiropractic care, her bladder has been infection-free for a period of more than a year; bladder control has improved and leg spasms have decreased in frequency and severity. Menstrual cramping also has reduced.
Based on the case history of recurrent infection, the author hypothesized that one effect of the vertebral subluxation complex was immunosupression, which was relieved by chiropractic adjustments.
L.T. female age 7 ½ has been under chiropractic care since birth. She has never had the need to seek medical care, nor taken a single medication or over over-the-counter drug to date. Her presenting vertebral subluxation: Atlas ASLA, D3/D4 PI.
Original Adjustment: Structural manual adjustment of D3/D4 in extension prone and Atlas in supine position.
S. Family 4 children age 1,2,3,5. All the children have been under regular chiropractic care since birth and have not needed for medication or over-the-counter drugs. Each child was checked soon after birth and then weekly thereafter. Adjustments were only given if and when subluxations were present. The children were adjusted in one or two places on an average of 21 day intervals.
Your immune system plays such an enormous role in the overall health of literally every cell and tissue in the body. Not only is it the immune system’s job to protect from coughs and colds but also it helps fight against cancer; repair damaged joints and slow down the aging process.
Don’t limit Chiropractic care to aches and pains. Make Chiropractic a part of you and your family’s wellness strategy. KEEP YOUR POWER TURNED ON!
We invite the Council Bluffs community to learn more about the benefits of chiropractic and the impact it can have on your health. Feel free to reach out to Dr. TJ Alger during his health talks, screenings and other community events with any questions you may have.
TJ Alger, DC
Chiropractic Essence
3424 W Broadway
Council Bluffs, IA 51501
Chiropractic Research from the Chiropractic Essence Health Library
Research Shows That Infertility Can Be Improved By Chiropractic
Dr. TJ Alger, Chiropractor and Owner of Chiropractic Essence in Council Bluffs, IA brings you the latest research about the benefits, cost-effectiveness and safety of chiropractic care on a range of health concerns. As always, feel free to discuss this material, along with any other topics with Dr. Alger and his chiropractic team.
Successful In Vitro Fertilization in a Poor Responder While Under Network Spinal Analysis Care: A Case Report Senzon SA, J Vertebral Subluxation Research September 14, 2003, pp 1-6.
This case report describes the successful in vitro fertilization (IVF) of a 34 year old female who had one previous aborted In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) attempt prior to Network Spinal Analysis (NSA) care that was attempted due to her partner’s azoospermia.
The patient had been treated medically Mircette (birth control pills), Lupron (a gonadotropin releasing hormone agonist), and Gonal-F (a recombinant FSH). The IVF was cancelled due to poor response. The patient commenced regular NSA care and her body chemistry responded positively so that the next IVF was successful and was followed by a successful pregnancy. The patient is still under NSA care, and is now in her second trimester with normal fetal heart sounds.
The resolution of chronic colitis with chiropractic care leading to increased fertility Blum, CR J Vertebral Subluxation Research August 31, 2003, p 1-5.
A 32-year-old female presented at my office for chiropractic care of her chronic colitis and did not disclose her condition of infertility during the course of care at this office. There appears to be some relationship between chiropractic care and relief of some visceral conditions relating to the colon and female reproductive organs. Chiropractic care including Sacro Occipital Technique (SOT), chiropractic manipulative reflex technique (CMRT), and category one block placement and protocol were employed. The patient had her chronic condition of colitis relieved and relatively simultaneously became pregnant after giving up on allopathic fertility treatments that she had undergone for 7 years.
Case Study Reduction of Vertebral Subluxation using Torque Release Technique with Changes in Fertility: Two Case Reports J Vertebral Subluxation Research Anderson-Peacock E., July 19, 2003, pp 1-6.
Two women had been deemed medically infertile and artificial insemination was being considered. Upon presentation, complete chiropractic evaluations were performed which detected spinal subluxations. Torque Release Technique Protocols were utilized for both evaluation and application of care. Adjustments were performed with an instrument, the Integrator, to improve spinal-neural integrity. During the course of chiropractic care both women were able to conceive. Although chiropractic care is not a treatment for infertility, it is postulated that improvement of spinal neural integrity through specific chiropractic adjustments may have contributed to improved homeostasis and physiological adaptation thus allowing the body to express a greater level of health as an outcome.
Insult, interference and infertility: an overview of chiropractic research. Behrendt, M. Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research May 2, 2003, p. 1-8.
This paper reviews 14 retrospective articles involving 15 women aged 22-65. Eleven had no history of pregnancy, nine had previous treatment for infertility, four were undergoing infertility treatments when starting chiropractic care and had a “poor responder undergoing multiple cycles of IVF” (in-vitro fertilization).
Chiropractic care’s successful outcomes are discussed and the various adjusting techniques used are reviewed.
Below is the story of a California woman who was given a 5 percent chance of ever becoming pregnant, even with vitro procedures, and who became pregnant after chiropractic adjustments.
A Spine Tingling Affair .The Monterey County Herald, Match 1998 Section D Page 1.
Did you hear the one about the woman who went to the chiropractor and got pregnant?
Really, all Karen Bulch wanted was a little neck-and-shoulders adjustment.
But a month after wandering into chiropractor Mark Kimes’ Salina office, the 44-year-old Monterey woman was with child, something she had unsuccessfully been trying to accomplish for 4 ½ years.
Kimes told her it might happen. And if it did, he said it would be within the first few months.
As Dr. Kimes was doing the neck/shoulders/complete personal history examination, he noticed a subluxation in Bulch’s lower back. He wasn’t sure, but Kimes thought after correcting the subluxation that the restored nerve flow may return her ability to become fertile. “I’ve been in practice for 12 years and I’ve seen it happen with many women,” he said.
Manipulative Therapy in Rehabilitation of the Locomotor System, 2nd ed. Lewit K (1991), Butterworth-Heineman, Ltd. Oxford.
“There is growing evidence that female infertility may be attributable to pelvic dysfunction.”
The author quotes a randomized, controlled trial by Volejnikova and Krupicka (1992) in the journal Manuelle Medizin where 34% of the women in the treatment group became pregnant within months compared to 8% in the control group. After the study ended the women in the control group were given spinal care and a further 27% of them became pregnant.
Fertility via the back door. Davidson, M What Doctors Don’t Tell You. March 2001 Vol. 11 No. 12 p.12.
“A couple had lost their third child in a tragic accident and wanted another child to complete their family. They had been trying without success for three years. The woman, who was 38, [initially] received a chiropractic adjustment; her husband was adjusted a few months later. Within 12 months, they had a fine healthy child.”
Chiropractic applications for infertility. Anderson, C. ICA Review. September/October 2000.
This is the case history of a 40 year-old female who had a miscarriage at 16 weeks. Midback pain brought her to the chiropractor. Postural studies revealed anterior head carriage, right head tilt, high shoulder, and high hip, hypokyphotic spine and pronation of both feet. A spinal and postural analysis revealed interference at C1 and C2 with other areas involved at C3, T1, T2, T6, L5 and S1.
The patient was adjusted using diversified technique and neuro-emotional technique. The husband also began to have chiropractic care. She became pregnant, carried to term and delivered a baby girl on Jan 30th, 2000.
Inability to conceive. Two case histories from the files of Larry L. Webster, D.C. International Chiropractic Pediatric Association Newsletter. Nov. 1995.
Case number 1: This is the case history of a female, age 32. Her prior care had been medical and she received fertility pills and shots with negative results. She had not had a menstrual period for 12 years.
The major area of the spine adjusted was the lumbar region. After two months of chiropractic care, her menses resumed. Patient complained of abdominal discomfort during cycle.
It was the author’s opinion that this discomfort would be a natural occurrence following an absence of menses for 12 years. Her menses returned and occurred on a regular cycle for four months when she conceived.
She was referred back to her medical doctor for confirmation of pregnancy. Her doctor informed her it was impossible for her to be pregnant – after all, he had done everything medically possible “and besides, there were no nerves emitting from the spine to the reproductive organs.” A few months later she delivered a healthy 7 ½ lb. Son.
Case number 2: This is the case of a female, age 26 who had been trying to get pregnant for a few years. She had taken the medical route with fertility pills, shots, etc. with negative results.
She had a severe scoliosis (Cobb’s angle of 58°) and, upon examination, was informed that chiropractic care could affect the Cobb’s angle and that possibly the severity of the curve with the subluxations present could be the reason for her body’s inability to conceive.
After six months of care x-rays revealed the Cobb’s angle was reduced to 47°. Approximately one month later, she became pregnant and remained under care throughout the pregnancy and delivered a fine baby with no complications. The areas adjusted were sacrum, lumbar and cervical spine.
No side posture moves were utilized in this case.
The restoration of female fertility in response to chiropractic treatment. Proceedings of the national conference on chiropractic and pediatrics, 1994:55-64. McNabb B.
This is the case history of a 36-year-old woman who had been medically tested and examined for infertility for one year. No abnormalities were found in her or her husband’s reproductive system.
When she finally sought chiropractic care she had pelvic pain (often interfering with sleep), low neck and upper back pain, a headache of two weeks duration and tinnitus of several years duration.
Chiropractic care consisted of adjustments to C1-2, T11-T12, and L-4-5. Care was three times a week for two weeks, twice a week for four weeks and once a week for 3 weeks.
The pelvic, lower neck and upper back pain, and tinnitus were improved. Headaches became mild and rare. Patient become pregnant shortly thereafter and had an uncomplicated delivery.
Osteopathic physicians have been aware of subluxations (they call them spinal lesions) and infertility. Early osteopathic literature has many references relating to this subject. In the paper below, the author summarizes some of the osteopathic clinical findings:
Vertebral lesions and the course of pregnancy in animals. Burns, L. Journal Of The American Osteopathic Association Vol. 23 No. 3 November 1923.
From the paper (p.157):
Dr. L.M. Whiting of South Pasadena, has reported the evil effects of vertebral lesions upon the course of pregnancy and labor in several articles and lectures. She reports many normal pregnancies followed normal labor in healthy young women in whom there are no vertebral lesions. In contrast she reports that no normal pregnancies followed by normal labor were found in any case in which lumbar, innominate or lower thoracic lesions were found on examination.”
“Dr. Jeanette Bolles, of Denver, also reports several family case studies in which pregnancy and healthy births did not occur until the correction of specific lumbar lesion(s).”
“Dr. A.V. Fish, Sapulpa, Oklahoma, reports an interesting case. After four years of sterile married life, the correction of lesions involving the innominate and the fifth lumbar vertebrae was followed by an almost normal pregnancy. The patient became pregnant within two weeks after the correction.”
We invite the Council Bluffs community to learn more about the benefits of chiropractic and the impact it can have on your health. Feel free to reach out to Dr. TJ Alger during his health talks, screenings and other community events with any questions you may have.
TJ Alger, DC
Chiropractic Essence
3424 W Broadway
Council Bluffs, IA 51501
Chiropractic Research from the Chiropractic Essence Health Library
Research Shows That Leg Alignment Issues Can Be Improved By Chiropractic
Dr. TJ Alger, Chiropractor and Owner of Chiropractic Essence in Council Bluffs, IA brings you the latest research about the benefits, cost-effectiveness and safety of chiropractic care on a range of health concerns. As always, feel free to discuss this material, along with any other topics with Dr. Alger and his chiropractic team.
Leg Length Alignment Asymmetry In A Non-clinical Population And Its Correlation To A Decrease In General Health As Measured By The SF-12: A Pilot Study
Purpose:
To determine if there is an association between a test commonly used by chiropractors as a sign of subluxation/joint dysfunction – supine leg length alignment (LLA) asymmetry – and health-related quality of life as measured by the SF-12 questionnaire, in a non-clinical population.
Design:
Volunteers answered the SF-12 and background questionnaires and were then examined for supine LLA by a chiropractor blinded to their answers.
Setting:
Gatherings of people in the general population.
Participants:
Fifty-five unscreened volunteers.
Examiner:
Chiropractor with approximately 20 years of clinical experience.
Main Outcome Measures:
The association of supine LLA asymmetry with general health based on the two summary scores – physical (PCS) and mental (MCS) – of the SF-12.
Results:
There were 27 volunteers with LLA asymmetry, they had a mean PCS of 49.6 and a mean MCS of 47.9. In the no – LLA asymmetry group (n=23) the mean PCS was 50.8, and mean MCS of 54.0. A multiple regression analysis found that of the variables gender, age, back pain (current/former) and LLA asymmetry, the only factor to approach significance with the SF-12 MCS/PCS was the presence of LLA asymmetry. A t-test found there was a significant difference (p=0.017) in the MCS between the supine LLA asymmetry and no-LLA asymmetry groups.
Conclusion:
This pilot study suggests that in this group of volunteers (n=50) from the non-clinical general population, those who demonstrated a commonly used sign of subluxation/joint dysfunction – supine leg length alignment asymmetry – had a significantly (P=0.017) lower measure of general health as determined by the SF-12 survey than those volunteers without such asymmetry. Further investigation to clarify this relationship and to establish whether there is a connection between the putative entity of chiropractic subluxation and unloaded leg length alignment asymmetry is recommended.
Leg Length Inequality (Short/Long Leg)
The supine leg check as a determinant of physiological/postural leg length inequality: a case study and analysis leg length inequality (LLI) Knutson, Gary A., Chiropractic Research Journal, Vol. VII, No. 1, Spring 2000.
This paper presents a case study of imposed leg length inequality following total hip replacement surgery and compares and contrasts methods used to determine anatomic and physiologic or postural LLI.
It is proposed that, within certain parameters, nonweight-bearing postural leg checks are evidence of physiological or postural, and not anatomic, LLI.
Thermal asymmetry of the upper extremity in scalenus anticus syndrome, leg-length inequality and response to chiropractic adjustment. Knutson GA. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics 1997; 20(7):476-481.
We invite the Council Bluffs community to learn more about the benefits of chiropractic and the impact it can have on your health. Feel free to reach out to Dr. TJ Alger during his health talks, screenings and other community events with any questions you may have.
TJ Alger, DC
Chiropractic Essence
3424 W Broadway
Council Bluffs, IA 51501
Chiropractic Research from the Chiropractic Essence Health Library
Research Shows That Neck Pain Can Be Improved By Chiropractic
Dr. TJ Alger, Chiropractor and Owner of Chiropractic Essence in Council Bluffs, IA brings you the latest research about the benefits, cost-effectiveness and safety of chiropractic care on a range of health concerns. As always, feel free to discuss this material, along with any other topics with Dr. Alger and his chiropractic team.
Cervical mobilization: concurrent effects on pain, sympathetic nervous system activity and motor activity. Sterling M, Jull G, Wright A. Man Ther (Manual Medicine) 2001;6(2):72-81.
In this paper, 30 patients with middle or lower neck (cervical) pain had “spinal manipulative therapy” (SMT) and their pain reduced after care.
Spinal care was found to have a pain fighting effect (“a hypoalgesic effect) as pain thresholds increased. It was also found that the sympathetic nervous system, which affects the functions of the internal organs, was affected: The authors wrote: “The treatment technique also produced a sympathoexcitatory effect with an increase in skin conductance and a decrease in skin temperature.”
Chiropractic treatment of post surgical neck syndrome utilizing mechanical force manually assisted short-lever spinal adjustments. Polkinghorn B and Colloca CJ Manipulative Physiol Ther November/December 2001. Vol 24 No. 9.
This is the case of a 35-year-old female who, after having neck surgery two separate times (a discectomy at C3/4 and a fusion at C5/6) suffered from chronic neck pain for over 5 years.
She had originally undergone the surgeries to resolve neck pain. Her surgeon suggested a third surgery but she decided on chiropractic care. Within 30 days of chiropractic care all her chronic pain and muscle spasm resolved. A follow-up two years later revealed no recurrences of her previous chronic problem.
Chronic spinal pain syndromes: a clinical pilot trial comparing acupuncture, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), and spinal manipulation. Giles LG, Muller R. J Manipulative Physiol Ther July/August 1999:22(6), pp.376-81.
Seventy seven patients were divided into three groups. One group received needle acupuncture, one group an NSAID and one group chiropractic care.
They were followed up after 30 days. Spinal care was the only intervention to achieve a statistically significant improvement. Patients receiving chiropractic care demonstrated a 30.7% reduction in Oswestry scores and a 25% reduction in neck disability index scores, a 50% reduction for low back pain, 46% reduction for upper back pain and 33% reduction for neck pain. Acupuncture and NSAIDS provided no significant improvement.
Manipulation and mobilization of the cervical spine. Hurwitz EL, Aker PD et al. Spine, 1996;21(15):1746-1760.
In this review of research, the authors concluded that for those suffering from chronic neck pain, chiropractic adjustments are more effective than any other approach.
Chiropractic treatment of cervical radiculopathy caused by a herniated cervical disc. Brouillette DL, Gurske, DT. Journal of Manipulative and Physiologic Therapeutics, Feb 1994; 17(2): 119-123.
This is the case study of a 60-year-old woman with a MRI documented herniated cervical disc.
Symptoms included deep, constant, burning ache in the left arm, and severe neck and left shoulder pain. Under chiropractic care the patient’s pain and numbness disappeared and her grip-strength returned to normal within 5 months.
Cervical spondylotic radiculopathy treated with the Meric technique: a case report. Gemmell, HA. Chiropractic Technique, Feb 1994; 6(1): 14-16.
This is the case of an annular disc protrusion with nerve root compression at level C-5 of a 69-year-old white male.
From the abstract:
Patient exhibited toothache-like pain over the left upper trapezius and deltoid muscles with an absent biceps reflex, decreased sensation to pinprick in the C5 dermatome, and a weak deltoid muscle. The patient was successfully treated over 26 days with eight treatments using Meric adjustments and supportive therapy. He remained pain free, without neurological signs, at the 4-month follow-up.
Soft tissue injuries of the cervical spine: a 15-year follow-up. Squires B, Gargan MF, Bannister GC. J of Bone and Joint Surgery (British Edition), 1996; (70B), pp955-57.
Ten and fifteen years after the original accident, some patients continue to complain of neck pain, back pain, headaches and/or dizziness.
This is the study of 40 patients with a whiplash injury assessed an average of 15.5 years after the injury.
This shows us that whiplash symptoms may remain for years without resolution. The most common complaint was neck pain, followed by back pain, headaches and dizziness. Psychological disturbances were seen in 52% of the patients.
Between 10 and 15 years after their initial injuries, only 18% of the patients demonstrated significant improvement. Twenty-eight percent showed deterioration.
Brain SPECT findings in late whiplash syndrome. Otte A, Mueller-Brand J, Fierz L. Lancet 1995; 345:1512-13.
Why do people with neck pain and whiplash sometimes suffer vision, hearing and personality disturbances? A study using a new technology shows that such patients have decreased blood flow in certain brain areas and that pain irritation from the upper neck appears to affect the blood supply to the brain.
Using technetium-99m hexanethylproplyrnrsminroxime single photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT), they found that six of seven patients with nontraumatic cervical pain had parieto-occipital hypoperfusion. In 24 patients confirmed by independent observers to be suffering from cognitive disturbances after whiplash injury, all had parieto-occipital hypoperfusion compared with 15 normal control subjects.
Manipulation and mobilization of the cervical spine: a systematic review of the literature. Hurwitz EL, Aker PD, Adam AH, Meeker WC, Shekelle PG. Spine 1996; 21:1746-60.
This was an analysis of the medical literature from 1966 to 1996 regarding cervical spine manipulation for neck pain and headache. Data was summarized and randomized controlled clinical trials were critically appraised. Cervical spinal adjustments were found superior to other therapies (muscle relaxants and medical care) for neck and headache. Chiropractic provided chronic neck pain patients with superior results when compared with acupuncture and drugs.
Diagnosis and treatment of TMJ, head, neck and asthmatic symptoms in children. Gillespie BR, Barnes JF, J of Craniomandibular Practice, Oct. 1990, Vol 8, No. 4.
From the abstract:
Pathologic strain patterns in the soft tissues can be a primary cause of headaches, neck aches, throat infections, ear infections, sinus congestion, and asthma.
Reduction of a confirmed C5-C6 disc herniation following specific chiropractic spinal manipulation: a case study. Siciliano MA, Bernard TA, Bentley, NJ. Chiropractic: The Journal of Chiropractic Research and Clinical Investigation Vol. 8 No. 1 April 1992.
This is the case of a 39-year-old male cable technician who complained of right neck and arm pain. Twenty years earlier he had a football injury and had some similar, temporary pain at that time. He now had an aching, deep pain running from the base of his neck to the right elbow and sometimes running sharply down his arm.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), thermography and Kronamaz muscle testing apparatus documented a C5-C6 disc herniation. Under chiropractic care the patient was symptom free. After 13 chiropractic visits, a post comparative MRI revealed a reduction in the herniation.
Reabsorption of a herniated cervical disc following chiropractic treatment utilizing the atlas orthogonal technique: a case report. Robinson, Kevin. Abstracts from the 14th annual upper cervical spine conference Nov 22-23, 1997, Life University, Marietta, Ga. Pub. in Chiropractic Research Journal, Vol. 5, No.1, Spring 1998.
This is the case of a 44 year-old man whose symptoms were as follows: severe neck pain, constant burning, left arm pain and left shoulder pain plus paresthesia in the index finger of the left hand. Patient also had diminished grip strength on left hand using dynamometer testing. Tests also revealed hyporeflexive biceps and triceps on the left as well as a C6 and C7 sensory deficit on the left. The MRI scan revealed a large left lateral herniated disc at the C6-7 level.
By the fifth week of care the patient’s symptoms of severe neck, shoulder, and arm pain were completely resolved. The patient’s numbness and grip strength improved consistently during the following six months. Comparative MRI obtained 14 months following the initial exam revealed total resolution of the herniated cervical disc.
We invite the Council Bluffs community to learn more about the benefits of chiropractic and the impact it can have on your health. Feel free to reach out to Dr. TJ Alger during his health talks, screenings and other community events with any questions you may have.
TJ Alger, DC
Chiropractic Essence
3424 W Broadway
Council Bluffs, IA 51501
