Recent research reported in the Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health – Chiropractic, on a toddler with rare seizures undergoing chiropractic care reveals that chiropractic could play an important role in managing brain related neurological disorders such as seizures and epilepsy. “Research is revealing that there is a relationship between abnormalities in the spine, the nervous system and the brain” stated Dr. Matthew McCoy, a chiropractor, public health researcher and editor of the journal that published the study. “Basic science research shows that the proper development and function of the brain relies on proper structure and movement of the spine from an early age.”

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Research has shown not only that the developing brain relies on normal structural integrity and joint movement, but that complex neurochemical communication and pathways involved in helping humans to adapt to their environment and even to “feel good” are tied into spinal biomechanics and their related neurological pathways. 

“It makes perfect sense when you think about it” stated Dr. McCoy. “The brain constantly needs and wants to know where our body is in space. If there is interference with the neurological communication between the spine and the brain all sorts of malfunctions can occur.” 

Researchers studying the connection between chiropractic and neurological disorders believe that these types of functional disorders have their root in abnormal spinal development. 

“There are very important functional relationships between the spine and the brain that if disturbed can result in a host of problems with how the brain functions” remarked Dr. McCoy. According to McCoy “The nervous systems need the constant stimulation of movement in order to develop and function properly. Abnormal position or movement of the spinal vertebra can develop and this can lead to nerve interference. It is this interference, called vertebral subluxations, that chiropractors correct.” 

This research describes a 2-year-old boy with malignant migrating partial seizures in infancy (MMPSI), a rare seizure condition, since he was three weeks old.  He had up to 20 seizures a day, decreased muscle tone, poor eye control, arm flailing, screaming, and movement disorders.  His severe lack of muscle tone led to his inability to hold up his head, sit up, and be vocal.  Medications did not help him.  

The chiropractor examined him and found structural shifts in his head, neck, upper back, and low back.  Postural changes, muscle spasm, swelling, restricted range of motion, and x-rays confirmed these findings.  These structural shifts can lead to obstruction of the nerves and it is this obstruction, called vertebral subluxations, that chiropractors correct. 

Following chiropractic adjustments, he experienced dramatic improvements in his seizures and quality of life.  He is now able to go an entire day without having seizures and was taken off all medication. 

The study’s author called for additional research to investigate the clinical implications of chiropractic in this population.

Contact Information: 

Matthew McCoy DC, MPH
Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health – Chiropractic
http://www.chiropracticpediatricresearch.com
support@vertebralsubluxationresearch.com