Bilateral diaphragmatic paralysis due to cervical chiropractic manipulation

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Orthopedics
• Alternative Medicine

Background:

• Neck pain due to cervical spinal disease is a prevalent condition causing significant disability.
• Chiropractic manipulation is a common alternative treatment for spinal symptoms.
• Complications from chiropractic manipulation can range from mild to severe, affecting the spinal cord, nerves, and arteries.

Observation:

• A rare case of bilateral diaphragmatic paralysis is reported.
• The patient was a healthy gentleman who underwent cervical manipulation.
• This complication resulted from phrenic nerve injury.

Findings:

• Cervical chiropractic manipulation can lead to phrenic nerve injury.
• Bilateral diaphragmatic paralysis is a potential, albeit rare, complication.
• Pre-existing degenerative cervical spine disease may increase risk.

Implications:

• Physicians need to be aware of this rare complication of chiropractic manipulation.
• Caution is advised when recommending spinal manipulation for neck pain.
• Risk assessment, particularly for patients with degenerative cervical spine disease, is crucial.