Chiropractic Management using Cox Technic Flexion Distraction for a Patient With Tandem Spinal Stenosis

Abstract

Objective

The purpose of this case report is to increase awareness of the early signs of tandem spinal stenosis with associated degenerative cervical myelopathy and to outline the possible role of chiropractic care in the collaborative management of this condition in the ageing population.

Clinical Features

The patient was a 69-year-old man with left-sided neck pain that radiated into his left shoulder and markedly limited left rotation and extension in the cervical spine. The pain had been present for “months” and, since the pain started, he had noticed a loss of balance and had fallen numerous times. The patient noted that extension of the head was a trigger for his falls. The patient also reported suffering from chronic lower back pain since a disc injury years ago.

Intervention and Outcome

Treatment consisted of Cox Technic Flexion Distraction and Decompression both protocol 1 and 2 to the full spine. The patient experienced only low levels of neck pain after 4 weeks of care, the arm pain totally resolved, and the lower back pain was minimal. At 10 weeks he reported no falls.

Conclusion

Conservative care with Cox Technic Flexion Distraction and Decompression may be an option when early signs of cervical myelopathy are present with tandem stenosis. Co-management with a neurologist or a neurosurgeon, as in this case, was prudent.