Open AccessAlleviating cervical radiculopathy by manipulative correction of reversed cervical lordosis: 4 years follow-up
Author(s) -
Eric ChunPu Chu
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
journal of family medicine and primary care
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2278-7135
pISSN - 2249-4863
DOI - 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_648_21
Subject(s) - medicine , neck pain , chiropractic , cervical spondylosis , acupuncture , surgery , cervical radiculopathy , cervical spine , lordosis , physical therapy , radiography , alternative medicine , pathology
Cervical radiculopathy is a neurologic condition caused by nerve root compression in the cervical spine, resulting in pain, numbness, sensory or motor dysfunction in the upper extremities. We present the case of a 57-year-old woman working as an insurance agent who suffered from chronic neck pain and numbness in the left arm for six months. Cervical radiographs revealed a reverse in natural lordotic curve. The patient was diagnosed with left C6 radiculopathy due to cervical spondylosis. Since cervical traction, rehabilitative exercise, acupuncture, and pain medicines previously failed to provide a long-lasting relief of symptoms, the patient sought chiropractic care. She was treated with spinal manipulation in combination with intermittent motorized cervical traction for three months. As a result of care, the patient experienced complete relief of symptoms, full cervical mobility, and high WHO Quality of Life score. A restoration of cervical lordosis was demonstrated on the 4-year follow-up radiograph.