Cervical Myelopathy after Neck Manipulation
10.35827/cp.2023.22.2.122
- Author:
Jin Sun KANG
1
;
Sung Hoon LEE
;
Ki Hong WON
;
Tae Ki CHOI
;
Su Min LEE
;
Eun Young KANG
;
Hyun Kyung LEE
;
Youn Kyung CHO
Author Information
1. Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Kwangju Christian Hospital, Gwangju, Korea
- Publication Type:Case Report
- From:
Clinical Pain
2023;22(2):122-126
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Spinal manipulation therapy (SMT) is commonly used to treat various musculoskeletal pains; however, it is associated with several complications. Mild complications resolve quickly; however, on rare occasions, they may cause severe complications that persist indefinitely. Here, we present a case of cervical myelopathy caused by a spinal manipulation. A 52-year-old man with a history of cervical radiculopathy at C4–7 underwent manipulation, performed by an unlicensed practitioner. After the manipulation, he explained abrupt muscle weakness in all four extremities. He was diagnosed with cervical myelopathy and had to undergo emergency surgery. Through this case, we aim to emphasize the role of doctors, with regard to spinal manipulation. Physicians must supervise the pre-evaluation of patients, manipulation, and post-manipulation monitoring, and the complications of SMT should be immediately reported.
