Abstract
BackgroundThis paper describes MRI findings of upper cervical subluxation due to alar ligament disruption following a vehicular collision. Incidental findings included the presence of a myodural bridge and a spinal cord syrinx. Chiropractic management of the patient is discussed.Case presentationA 21-year old female presented with complaints of acute, debilitating upper neck pain with unremitting sub-occipital headache and dizziness following a vehicular collision. Initial emergency department and neurologic investigations included x-ray and CT evaluation of the head and neck. Due to persistent pain, the patient sought chiropractic care. MRI of the upper cervical spine revealed previously unrecognized clinical entities.ConclusionThis case highlights the identification of upper cervical ligamentous injury that produced vertebral subluxation following a traumatic incident. MRI evaluation provided visualization of previously undetected injury. The patient experienced improvement through chiropractic care.
Highlights
This paper describes MRI findings of upper cervical subluxation due to alar ligament disruption following a vehicular collision
This case highlights the identification of upper cervical ligamentous injury that produced vertebral subluxation following a traumatic incident
Literature review The patient in this case suffered cervical acceleration/ deceleration (CAD) Grade III injury
Summary
MRI provided objective evidence of upper cervical ligamentous injury and components of chiropractic subluxation were demonstrated that led to a refined approach and a favourable outcome. In this case, chiropractic care was carefully applied and led to the resolution of acute neck pain, associated headache and dizziness secondary to post-traumatic subluxation. Further scientific investigation is needed to evaluate the role of MRI in chiropractic practice. This unique technology may have the capability of visualizing diagnostic considerations and restorative processes of healing inherent to chiropractic intervention
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