Resolution of Resting Tremors and Cervical Radiculopathy Following Chiropractic Treatment In a 58-Year-Old Male: A Case Report With 2-Year Follow-Up

Abstract

Objective

The purpose of this case report is to describe chiropractic management of a patient with neck pain, cervical kyphosis, cervical radiculopathy, and resting tremors of the left arm.

Clinical Features

A 58-year-old White male presented with an insidious onset of severe neck pain and burning pain down the left arm with accompanying involuntary resting tremors of the left arm. The pain and tremors limited his ability to sit, walk, work, drive, sleep, and perform household chores, with driving and sleeping reportedly being the most substantial activities affected. Clinical testing revealed left cervical radiculopathy with severe myospasm in the scalene and levator scapulae muscles. Radiographs revealed reversed cervical curvature and degenerative spondylosis with neural foraminal encroachment at C4-C5, C5-C6, and C6-C7.

Intervention and Outcome

The patient was initially managed with soft tissue therapy to the upper trapezius and levator scapulae, and gentle manual cervical traction for 4 visits over the course of 1 week. This was followed by incorporation of cervical spinal manipulation using low force adjustments, manual cervical traction, and thoracic spinal manipulation using diversified technique 3 times a week for 3 additional weeks. After active treatment, a monthly maintenance plan was prescribed. At the start of treatment, the Numeric Pain Rating (NPR) was recorded at 8/10, and the Neck Disability Index (NDI) Score was 26%. At 1- and 2-year follow-ups, NPR was recorded as 0/10 and 0/10, respectively, and NDI Score was 4% and 0%, respectively.

Conclusion

Neck and arm pain and debilitating tremors resolved in a patient who received chiropractic care. These improvements were maintained 2 years after the start of treatment.