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Research is revealing that there is a relationship between abnormalities in the spine, the nervous system, and the brain. Basic science and clinical research show that the proper development of the brain relies heavily on proper structure and movement of the spine from an early age. 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 respond 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. If there is interference with the neurological communication between the spine and the brain all sorts of malfunctions can occur.”
An 11-year-old male, accompanied by his mother, presented for chiropractic consultation with a primary complaint of epileptic seizures and a secondary complaint of nystagmus, which caused rapid side-to-side movements of the eyes. His seizures began approximately a year and a half prior to the consultation, occurring about six times per day and lasting 10-15 seconds each. Despite being on Topamax, prescribed at 25 milligrams once per day, the seizures persisted without identified triggers.
The chiropractor examined him and found postural changes, structural shifts, muscle spasms, and decreased range of motion throughout his spine. Findings were confirmed with additional testing. These structural shifts can lead to obstruction of the nerves and it is this obstruction, called vertebral subluxations, that chiropractors correct.
Following chiropractic care, the patient’s nystagmus improved, and the frequency of seizures decreased significantly. Initially, his seizures dropped to one per day, and by the end of the treatment period, he experienced only one seizure in the past four weeks. Throughout the treatment, no adverse events were reported. The patient’s mother was highly impressed with the results, leading to the continuation of chiropractic care for maintenance.
The notable improvement in seizure frequency and nystagmus highlights the potential benefits of chiropractic intervention in managing pediatric epileptic seizures. The study’s author called for additional research to investigate the clinical implications of chiropractic in this population.
Matthew McCoy, DC, MPH
Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research
Website: [www.vertebralsubluxationresearch.com]
Email: drmatthewmccoy@gmail.com
Phone: 404.247.2550
