Adverse effects of spinal manipulation

Abstract

Adverse effects of spinal manipulation As a UK-wide statutory regulator, the General Chiropractic Council (GCC) has a duty to act in the public interest. The GCC sets standards of chiropractic education, training, conduct and practice. The GCC also has a duty to promote chiropractic so that its contribution to the health of the nation is understood and recognized. Two points. The GCC requires all chiropractors to explain to patients the risks and benefits of the chiropractic management of their condition to enable appropriate consent to be obtained;. While acknowledging that every human activity carries some risk, the GCC's core message to the public is that 'chiropractic management of musculoskeletal disorders is safe, evidence-based and effective in terms of outcomes and cost'. Having carefully considered Professor Ernst's study, the GCC has seen nothing that changes this. 1 The GCC is deeply concerned that a study whose conclusions cannot be justified by the research papers reviewed, has been presented as 'scientific rigour' (JRSM 2007;100:330-338). This is liable to lead to yet more public confusion when confronted with yet another research scare story. This does not serve the interests of the public or those of researchers who are dedicated to improving the public's health. Competing interests PD is the Chairman of the GCC.

A rare case of ischaemic stroke following cervical spine manipulation in an adolescent girl

“…1 Neck manipulation is a potentially dangerous procedure, especially when performed by untrained individuals with adverse effects reported as dissection of vertebral artery, dissection of internal carotid artery, dural tears, nerve injuries, disc herniation and cervical cord edema. 5 There are case reports of adult patients who developed vertebral artery dissection following chiropractic neck manipulation. There is a case report of a young woman who developed symptoms of vertebral artery dissection following cervical spine manipulation with an infarct in the inferior half of cerebellar hemisphere with fourth ventricular compression causing obstructive hydrocephalus.…”

“…Spinal manipulation is performed by chiropractic providers and physiotherapists for treating neck ailments in adults using low velocity or high velocity techniques. 5 The aim of spinal manipulation is to relieve neck pain as well as increase the range of motion. In high velocity manipulation, firm pressure is applied, the joint is moved through full range of motion and then a quick manual thrust in precise direction to increase joint mobility is delivered.…”

“…In high velocity manipulation, firm pressure is applied, the joint is moved through full range of motion and then a quick manual thrust in precise direction to increase joint mobility is delivered. 5 Chiropractic neck manipulation has been reported as one of the rare causes of stroke in children and adults as forceful thrust used is likely to cause vertebral artery dissection and posterior inferior cerebellar artery injury. 5 Stoke can develop within hours or couple of days after manipulation.…”

“…5 Chiropractic neck manipulation has been reported as one of the rare causes of stroke in children and adults as forceful thrust used is likely to cause vertebral artery dissection and posterior inferior cerebellar artery injury. 5 Stoke can develop within hours or couple of days after manipulation. This case highlights the potential dangers of neck manipulation and the relationship between neck manipulation and young stroke.…”