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Occipital infarction following chiropractic cervical manipulation
Journal of Clinical Neuro-Ophthalmology
|March 1, 1986
Summary
Chiropractic neck manipulation may cause serious neurological injury. A case report details a man who experienced vision loss (homonymous hemianopia) after cervical manipulation, likely due to vertebral artery thromboembolism.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Ophthalmology
- Vascular Neurology
Background:
- Cervical manipulation is a common treatment for neck pain.
- Potential complications, though rare, warrant careful consideration.
Observation:
- A 44-year-old male presented with sudden onset complete homonymous hemianopia.
- This visual deficit occurred two days after receiving chiropractic cervical manipulation.
Findings:
- The probable mechanism is thromboembolism originating from the vertebrobasilar circulation.
- Neck manipulation may cause trauma to vertebral arteries, leading to occipital infarction and stroke.
- Associated neuro-ophthalmic findings can include Horner's syndrome and palsies of the sixth nerve and gaze.
Implications:
- Highlights a potential risk associated with chiropractic cervical manipulation.
- Emphasizes the need for vigilance regarding vertebrobasilar thromboembolism after neck manipulation.
- Underscores the importance of recognizing and managing neuro-ophthalmic complications following such procedures.