Spinal cord compression following traditional confinement massage

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Orthopedics
• Medical Case Reports

Background:

• Traditional medicine practices, including neck manipulation, are prevalent in some cultures.
• Cervical spine injuries can result from forceful manipulation, potentially leading to severe neurological deficits.
• Atlanto-axial subluxation is a critical condition affecting the upper cervical spine.

Observation:

• A 33-year-old woman presented with tetraparesis, a significant neurological impairment affecting all four limbs.
• The onset of tetraparesis occurred shortly after undergoing neck manipulation by a traditional confinement midwife.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the cervical spine was performed to investigate the cause of the neurological symptoms.

Findings:

• MRI revealed a fracture of the second cervical vertebra (C2).
• The fracture was associated with atlanto-axial subluxation, indicating instability at the C1-C2 joint.
• These structural abnormalities resulted in significant compression of the spinal cord.

Implications:

• This case highlights the potential risks associated with non-medical neck manipulation, even when performed by traditional practitioners.
• Prompt diagnosis and management of cervical spine fractures and subluxations are crucial to prevent permanent neurological damage.
• Educating the public about the dangers of unqualified manipulation of the neck is essential for patient safety.