Cervical Radiculopathy Alleviating by Manipulative Correction of Cervical Hypolordosis

Abstract

The purpose of this report is to present an interesting case of cervical radiculopathy in a patient with a prominent cervical hypolordosis treated by chiropractic adjustment. A 55-year-old office worker with severe neck pain and numbness of the right arm sought chiropractic treatment. Following 12 sessions of cervical adjustment, the patient experienced complete alleviation from radiculopathy and full restoration of cervical curvature. Neck pain is common and the cause is usually multifactorial. About 88% of uncomplicated neck pain is self-limiting. Conservative treatment is advocated as initial modality for most patients. Cervical radiculopathy, however, is a potential problem because nerve impingement can cause disability due to numbness or paresthesia, and even weakness, requiring surgical intervention. The best chance for sensorimotor recovery is with prompt intervention to decompress the pinched nerve. Instead of watchful waiting, early application of chiropractic adjustment may help release nerve impingement, and avoid medications and operations in patients with neglected nerve compression. J Med Cases. 2018;9(5):139-141 doi: https://doi.org/10.14740/jmc3051w