Related Experiment Videos
Cervical spondylolysis: three levels of simultaneous involvement
T R Yochum1, J T Carton, M S Barry
1Rocky Mountain Chiropractic Radiological Center, Denver, CO, USA.
Summary
This case report highlights a rare instance of congenital cervical spondylolysis affecting three spinal levels. Chiropractic management provided complete symptom relief for the patient.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
- Chiropractic Medicine
Background:
- Cervical spondylolysis, a defect in the pars interarticularis of the cervical spine, is typically congenital.
- Multiple levels of involvement are exceptionally rare, with no prior reports detailing three affected levels.
Observation:
- A 24-year-old male presented with chronic neck discomfort.
- Radiographic examination revealed multiple congenital anomalies, including three levels of cervical spondylolysis.
- The patient's symptoms were deemed unrelated to the radiographic findings.
Findings:
- The patient underwent conservative chiropractic management.
- Complete resolution of the presenting neck discomfort was achieved following treatment.
Implications:
- This case underscores the congenital etiology of cervical spondylolysis.
- It emphasizes the importance of differentiating spondylolysis from fractures of the neural arch.
- Conservative chiropractic care can be an effective treatment for symptomatic cervical spondylolysis.