Frontiers in Neurology (Nov 2016)

Upper Trunk Brachial Plexus Palsy Following Chiropractic Manipulation

  • John Cunningham,
  • Wayne Hoskins,
  • Wayne Hoskins,
  • Scott Ferris

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2016.00211
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 7

Abstract

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Introduction:Upper trunk brachial plexus palsy can result from high energy trauma and has never been reported following spinal manipulation.Background:The case is presented of a patient who developed an acute brachial plexus upper trunk palsy following spinal manipulative therapy. Discussion:Discussion is made on the incidence of complications following manipulation and recommendations to prospectively capture all serious complications.Concluding Remarks:Risks exist with spinal manipulative therapy. Neurological injury can occur. Risk assessment and re-examination should occur at every visit. Large rigorous prospective studies are required to identify the true incidence of serious complications resulting from manipulative therapy and the benefit:risk ratio.

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