Feeding Tube Removed Following Chiropractic Care

Recent research reported in the Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research on a man suffering with Bickerstaff’s Brainstem Encephalitis, reveals that chiropractic may play an important role in managing people with such health challenges. The literature included supports the role of chiropractic in those suffering from this health challenge and calls for more research in this area.

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Research has shown not only that the brain relies on normal spinal structural integrity, balance and joint movement to function properly, but that complex neurochemical communication and pathways involved in helping people adapt to their environment 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 and what is going on relative to all functions of the body. If there is obstruction to the neurological communication between the spine and the brain all sorts of malfunctions can occur and this can lead to symptoms such as those associated with this man's inability to swallow and eat.” 

“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 body functions” remarked McCoy. He added “If there is abnormal position or movement of the spinal vertebra this can lead to nerve obstruction. It is this obstruction, called vertebral subluxation, that chiropractors correct.”

The patient reported on in the study was a 31-year-old male with Bickerstaff’s Brainstem Encephalitis.  He had been experiencing confusion, difficulty walking, vision issues, feeding issues, dizziness, and depression.  As his condition progressed, he experienced tremors, and weakness in his leg. He had to have a feeding tube inserted to eat as swallowing became difficult.  After several visits to various medical specialists, he received the diagnosis and was placed on a treatment plan.  

The chiropractor examined him and found structural shifts in his neck, midback, low back, and pelvis.  He had decreased range of motion, tenderness, and pain in his neck, shoulder, arm, hands, hip, buttock, leg, and foot.  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 care, his feeding tube was removed, and he was able to eat and swallow solid foods again. His range of motion improved overall, and his pain resolved in his neck, shoulder, and low back.  

The study’s author called for additional research to investigate the clinical implications of chiropractic care of those with similar symptomatology.

Contact Information: 

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