Chiroblog

The challenges posed by abnormal muscle tone in children are multifaceted and can significantly impact motor development and overall well-being. Whether hypertonic or hypotonic, these conditions can range from mild to severe. Hypertonicity is characterized by increased muscle tension and limited flexibility. It can stem from various factors, including intrauterine injuries or neurologic conditions affecting the motor pathways such as cerebral palsy. In a chiropractic case study, a four-month-old infant presented with hypertonicity in the arms and legs.

The infant's case history revealed a complex birth involving interventions such as forceps and suction which potentially contributed to the muscular tension. Through a chiropractic care plan involving spinal and cranial adjustments, along with home care exercises, significant improvements were noted over a six-month period. The infant showed gradual resolution of hypertonicity symptoms, with improved milestones, limb flexibility and primitive reflexes. This case underscores the potential of chiropractic care in addressing muscle hypertonicity in pediatric patients and highlights the need for further research in this area to better understand its efficacy and applicability.

Beyond addressing physical symptoms, chiropractic care may play a crucial role in supporting motor development associated developmental delays or disabilities. As such, continued exploration and documentation of chiropractic approaches for pediatric musculoskeletal disorders are essential for optimizing care and promoting the well-being of young patients facing these challenges.

Reference: Kylie Read, BChiro. Resolution of Hypertonicity in a Pediatric Patient Undergoing Chiropractic Care: A Case Report. Volume 12, No. 1, June 2011 Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics.

Visual disturbances, ranging from double vision to narrowed visual fields, have been reported to improve following chiropractic manipulation. This intriguing case outlines the resolution of intermittent double vision and over-convergence in a 13-year-old boy after chiropractic care. The patient's symptoms, which had persisted for a year and worsened with schoolwork, were attributed to accommodative/convergence insufficiency, a condition affecting eye alignment and focus.

Upon referral from an optometrist, chiropractic evaluation revealed vertebral dysfunction in the cervical and lumbopelvic spine. Treatment involved spinal adjustments and manipulation to correct the identified dysfunctions. Remarkably, the patient reported full symptom resolution after just one visit, with sustained improvement noted over subsequent appointments.

The case underscores the potential role of chiropractic care in addressing visual disturbances associated with mechanical neck and back issues. While the exact mechanisms behind these improvements remain under investigation, theories suggest that chiropractic adjustments may enhance neural integrity and cerebral blood flow, aiding in the restoration of visual function. Further research is needed to quantify the efficacy of chiropractic interventions in cases of sensory system impairments, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in optimizing patient outcomes.

This is why Dr. Rubin makes sure to check eye functioning of all children, because the eyes are the 'windows into the brain!'

Reference: Gabrielle Tymms, BAppSc(ClinSc)/BChiroSc. Visual Recovery from Diplopia in a 13–Year-Old Following Chiropractic Intervention. Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics Volume 12, No. 1, June 2011.

Birth-related injuries can present complex challenges, particularly in pediatric patients. One example is in a case report from 2011 that sheds light on a rare occurrence: a neonate with combined brachial plexus and facial nerve palsy seeking care at a chiropractic clinic. The patient, delivered via forceps-assisted vaginal birth after Caesarean, exhibited facial asymmetry and upper limb postural issues from birth, stemming from shoulder dystocia during delivery.

Upon examination, the patient displayed signs of both brachial plexus and facial nerve involvement, indicating a unique obstetric trauma. Chiropractic management, focusing on craniosacral techniques and soft tissue therapy, yielded impressive results. Gradual improvement in facial symmetry and upper limb posture was observed over several months, with no reported adverse effects.

This case underscores the importance of considering conservative therapies, such as chiropractic care, as one alternative to managing birth-related injuries. While severe cases may necessitate surgical or other intervention, mild to moderate presentations can often be effectively addressed through specialized pediatric chiropractic care and neurological exercises. Close monitoring and individualized care are paramount in optimizing outcomes for pediatric patients with birth-related injuries.

Reference: Sharon Gordon, BAppSc(Chiro). Chiropractic Management of a Combined Neonatal Brachial Plexus and Facial Nerve Palsy: A Case Report. Volume 12, No. 1, June 2011 Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics

Recent epidemiologic studies have estimated that the lifetime prevalence of low back pain in children is approximately 50%, with almost 15% of children experiencing frequent or continual pain. A pediatric chiropractor can help alleviate low back pain in children through gentle spinal adjustments and exercises to strengthen supporting muscles and prevent future episodes. By employing safe and effective chiropractic care, pediatric chiropractors aim to reduce pain, improve function, and enhance the overall well-being of young patients experiencing low back discomfort.

A low back pain research study involving 54 pediatric patients with an average age of 13 years old highlights the potential of chiropractic care in alleviating low back pain in children. Most of the patients were diagnosed with lumbar dysfunction or subluxation. Treatment outcome was measured with a subjective rating scale and a self-report pediatric visual analogue scale. Patients responded well to adjustments, with 87% of patients experiencing "important" improvement within a 6-week treatment course. There were no reported complications and significant improvements were observed, however, the need for further investigations is needed.

Reference: Hayden JA, Mior SA, Verhoef MJ. Evaluation of chiropractic management of pediatric patients with low back pain: a prospective cohort study. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2003 Jan;26(1):1-8. doi: 10.1067/mmt.2003.11. PMID: 12532132.