ASRF Case Report Project

The ASRF Case Report Project

In 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, we raised funds through our Spinal Research Hero Month, for some very important research – the ‘ASRF Case Report Project’. This exciting project was designed to gather front-line evidence in the form of case study information, from Chiropractors around the globe.

We know you see incredible stories and transformations take place in your practice all the time, but did you know they can contribute powerfully to the evidence and narrative about our profession?

We are capturing your stories and transforming them into much-needed case reports. For the first 3 years of the project, we focused on the effects of chiropractic care on things like stress, immunity and adaptability, in alignment with our current Research Agenda. In 2024, we are calling for submissions that explore the role of Subluxation, Quality of Life and Functional Outcome Measures Across the Lifespan, again in line with our Research Agenda focus.

As a result of the project, by September 2024, we will have published 51 case reports, five of which were case series covering 22 individual cases (ie: 68 cases in total). We have also published two standalone literature reviews and a commentary piece. Those published to date are below, with more to come soon. All Case Reports and other outcomes from this project are published on the Asia-Pacific Chiropractic Journal.

ASRF Case Report Project

Submissions NOW CLOSED. 

Funds raised through Spinal Research Hero Month in May are going towards the 2024 round of case reports. We are hoping this round will result in at least 10 more case reports being published in late 2024 – early 2025. This is incredible news for chiropractic and we couldn’t be more proud of the project. Thank you to all of our Spinal Research Heroes, Sponsors, Donors and Members – your contributions are deeply appreciated and are resulting in world-class research outcomes that are relevant around the globe. And a special thank you to the Asia-Pacific Chiropractic Journal, for supporting the project and publishing the case reports – we’re honored to collaborate with you!

Please note that due to our anticipation of a high number of submissions, preference will be given to ASRF Membersif we receive more submissions than we can fund. Not a Member? Join here.

PUBLISHED CASE REPORTS:

We are so thrilled to bring you the published and indexed Case Reports from the ASRF Case Report Project.

We have had some AMAZING cases put forward by Chiropractors in our tribe, and these are the published releases to date, via the Asia-Pacific Chiropractic Journal.

Statement regarding authorship of the ASRF Case Reports.

Chiropractic management of a 30-year-old male with Motor Neurone Disease: A case report. (Ullman E, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Objective/Clinical Features: A 30-year-old male presented for chiropractic care, with a diagnosis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) type of Motor Neurone Disease (MND). He became symptomatic in 2017 and was diagnosed in March of 2019. At the time of presentation, he was newly diagnosed, receiving acupuncture, and was beginning to see a physiotherapist. [See more in full report]

Intervention/Outcomes: Predominant adjustments included Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT) blocking, activator methods technique, shoulder mobilisation, TMJ adjustments and muscle releases, as well as wrist diversified adjustments, Talus traction pull, drop piece adjusting, and gentle diversified technique at approximately 10% of the normal strength used on an adult of that age and size. The focus was on the whole body due to the nature of disease.

Conclusion: This case suggests that subluxation-based, whole-of-body focused chiropractic care may contribute to successful management of ALS type Motor Neurone Disease. See the full report here.

Decrease in allergies, nocturnal enuresis and sleep problems in a 3-year-old under chiropractic care. (Steinberg B, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Objective/Clinical Features: A three-year old female presented for chiropractic care, with her mother citing primary concerns of allergies and a stuffy nose for the past two months. Secondary concerns included behavioural issues, poor sleep and a 6-7 month history of bed-wetting.

Intervention/Outcomes: A course of subluxation-base chiropractic care commenced, with torque release technique, toggle board and HVLA adjustments delivered in age appropriate measures. Chiropractic care was concomitant with an improvement in allergies and mood, decrease in temper tantrums and bed-wetting (nocturnal enuresis), and improved sleep.

Conclusion: This case report indicates that chiropractic care to reduce subluxations may result in improved immune system function as seen in the decrease in allergies in this case. See the full report here.

Chiropractic Management of an 18-year old female with lupus: A Case Report. (Kolterman S, Martin A, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Objective/Clinical Features: An 18 year old female presented with a diagnosis of Lupus, and had been advised to commence medical management of the condition. Her condition was, at that point in time, presenting as chronic neck and joint pain.

Intervention/Outcomes: A week of concentrated care during which she received 56 low level force chiropractic adjustments. The adjusting technique used was the Functional Neurological Technique, a sustained contact low-level force adjusting technique.

Conclusion: Following two courses of concentrated care at the Averio Institute (which included chiropractic care), the Medical Doctor reversed the diagnosis of Lupus. See the full report here.

Improvement in migraines and chronic neck pain in a 42 year old male under chiropractic care (Hassan F, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Objective/Clinical Features: A 42-year old male presented for chiropractic care with a chief complaint of migraines and neck pain he believed to be involved with poor posture. A course of chiropractic care (Diversified Technique, combined with Chiropractic Biophysics exercises) was concomitant with a decrease in the frequency and severity of migraine, decrease in pain and pain-related stress, and an increase in range of motion and coping skills.

Conclusion: This case report indicates that chiropractic care may be of benefit for the reduction of stress, pain and migraine. Further research is required. See the full report here.

Improvement in posture, sleep and energy in a 25 year old female under chiropractic care. (Leahy A, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Objective/Clinical Features: A 25-year old female presented for chiropractic care to address her postural concerns. She described herself as ‘healthy but fatigued.’. Chiropractic care for the reduction of vertebral subluxations involved special attention to the thoracic and cervical spine, where a forward head carriage was noted, and stabilising of the pelvis which was found to be tilted.

Intervention/Outcomes: Following a course of chiropractic care, objective findings confirmed a reduction in forward head carriage, an increase in pelvic stability, and was concomitant with patient reported increases in sleep quality, energy, vitality, and immune function (i.e. resistance to coughs, colds and flus)

Conclusion: In this case, an improvement in sleep, energy, vitality, and immunity was concomitant with a course of chiropractic care. See the full report here.

Chiropractic Management of chronic sinusitis and breathing difficulty in a 67-year-old male. (Luc A, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Objective/Clinical Features: A 67 year old male presented for chiropractic care with a chief complaint of chronic sinusitis, post-nasal drip, breathing difficulty and generalised discomfort, from which he had suffered for ten years. ENT Specialists had failed to diagnose an underlying cause.

Intervention/Outcomes: Chiropractic care for the reduction of vertebral subluxations using the Advanced BioStructural Correction technique was concomitant with a significant improvement in sinusitis.

Conclusion: Chiropractic care was concomitant with a 50-60% reduction in chronic sinusitis, and a 50% reduction in sinus medication. See the full report here.

Resolution of severe hypoacusia and first degree tinnitus concomitant with chiropractic care. (Alarcon EM, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Objective/Clinical Features: A 62-year-old female presented for chiropractic care after a medical diagnosis of severe hypoacusia and first degree tinnitus following weight overload.

Intervention/Outcomes: A four-visit course of care was undertaken, using Diversified Technique for the diagnosis and adjustment of subluxations. After four weeks of care, a 90% increase in hearing was noted on the left side. Her subluxation listings remained consistent.

Conclusion: Chiropractic care may be of assistance in the management of hypoacusia. Further research is required. See the full report here.

Improvement in memory, balance and hearing in a 91-year-old male under chiropractic care: A Case Report. (Kolterman S, Martin A, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Objective/Clinical Features: A 91-year-old male presented for chiropractic care following recent weight loss and worsening memory loss. It was reported that his vocabulary was roughly 50-60% of its prior capacity.

Intervention/Outcomes: He received chiropractic care via the Functional Neurological Technique which uses a friction plate and a friction coefficient in order to determine subluxation, line of drive, completion of treatment and order or adjustment (more in full report).

Conclusion: Further research is required to confirm and explain this effect, as well as to investigate any inflammatory-brain connections involved in memory loss in older adults without a diagnosis of neurodegenerative conditions under chiropractic care. See the full report here.

Resolution of nocturnal enuresis in 9 year-old male under chiropractic care: A case report. (Blonigen A, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Objective/Clinical Features: A 9-year-old male presented for chiropractic care with nocturnal enuresis (bedwetting). The child had a history of chiropractic care, but there was a significant time period from his last adjustment. During this time the bedwetting frequency had increased to 3-4 nights in a row. The child had received repetitive antibiotic prescriptions from the ages 0-7 and had injured their ‘tailbone’ two years previous. .

Intervention/Outcomes: Followed a schedule of 2 sessions per week for 6 weeks, followed by a review. Techniques employed included Diversified Manual, Thompson and Logan Protocols. Following the review the schedule of care was revised to weekly sessions for a duration of 4 weeks (more in full report).

Conclusion: Chiropractic care may be of assistance in the management of nocturnal enuresis. See the full report here.

Improved scoliosis in 13-year-old female: A Case Report. (Marsilla-Alarcon EM, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Objective/Clinical Features: 13-year-old female presented with the primary concern of scoliosis. There was no history of major surgeries or significant diseases, illnesses, or comorbidities. The patient practices Taekwondo and her reported hip and left knee pain was preventing her from training. The preliminary radiological evaluation revealed a scoliosis of 13°, with dysmetria of 14 millimetres.

Intervention/Outcomes: The patient attended 12 appointments. Chiropractic checks and adjustments were performed with Diversified Technique. Evaluation of vertebral subluxations were performed with leg checks, motion palpation, algometry, and thermography.

Conclusion: Further research should examine the possibility that improvements of scoliosis under chiropractic care may be related to an increase in proprioceptive ability and spinal/skeletal adaptability. See the full report here.

Improvement in digestion and coordination following chiropractic care in a 4-year-old male: A case report. (Pryjma J, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Objective/Clinical Features: 4-year-old male presented for chiropractic care with digestion and coordination issues. One year prior to presenting, the child had their tonsil and adenoids removed. Through a recent assessment by an occupational therapist, the child was found to have poor balance (more in report).

Intervention/Outcomes: The schedule of care was 2 sessions a week for 6 weeks, after which a review was done. Following the review the schedule was revised to 2 sessions a week for 4 weeks, and further revised to one session a week for 4 weeks (more in report).

Conclusion: Chiropractic care may contribute to improvements in adaptability manifesting, in this case, as an improvement in digestion and coordination concomitant with chiropractic care. See the full report here.

Improved posture and physical resilience through chiropractic care in 3-year-old female: A case report. (Pryjma J, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Objective/Clinical Features: A 3-year-old female presented for chiropractic care for poor posture, poor motor control and low energy levels. Examination revealed retained primitive reflexes and vertebral subluxations.

Intervention/Outcomes: Three consecutive courses of care commenced, during which chiropractic care for vertebral subluxation was concomitant with steady improvements in posture and physical resilience as well as integration of retained primitive reflexes and an improvement in gross motor skills.

Conclusion: Chiropractic care for the reduction of vertebral subluxations may result in changes at the brainstem level and lead to better integration of primitive reflexes and an increase in posture, gross motor skill and generalised physical resilience. Further research is required to isolate and confirm the mechanisms behind such improvements. See the full report here.

Improvement in Physical Resilience and Management of ADHD in a 12-year-old Male under Chiropractic Care: A Case Report. (Steinberg B, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Objective/Clinical Features: A 12-year-old male presented for chiropractic care with the primary concerns of ADHD, a mood disorder, and growing pains in his legs that had started a month prior (more in report).

Intervention/Outcomes: The patient was seen twice a week for twelve weeks. During this time, Torque Release Technique (TRT) and analysis was used. After the 12 weeks, the patient was reassessed. The parents reported a decrease in leg pain, and a complete resolution of allergies and strep infection. The patient was less confrontational and generally has a more positive demeanor. The mid spine hypotonicity was returning to normal and there was a significant change seen in the thoraco-lumbar junction.

Conclusion: Chiropractic care for the reduction of vertebral subluxations may result in an improvement in physical resilience and the severity of ADHD related symptomatology. Further research is required. See the full report here.

Improved Physical Adaptability in a 3.5-Year-Old Female with an Abnormal Birth History: A case report. (Treahy-Geofreda T, Lanoue B, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Objective/Clinical Features: A 3½ year old female presented for chiropractic care with primary complaints of flat feet, bed wetting and poor balance. Additional health history included eczema, repetitive ear infections requiring antibiotic medication, and a difficult birth history. Subluxations through the cervical and thoracic spine were noted.

Intervention/Outcomes: A course of chiropractic care for the resolution of vertebral subluxation commenced, during which Activator Methods and Diversified Technique were used to adjust subluxations. The course of care was concomitant with a significant reduction in symptomatology which included digestion, mood, attention, and bedwetting.

Conclusion: Chiropractic care may be associated with improved mood, attention, digestion and bedwetting. Further research is required to isolate the mechanisms behind such improvements. See the full report here.

Resolution of Periodic Fever Syndrome in 3-year-old female: A case report. (Ullman E, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Objective/Clinical Features: A three-year-old female presented for chiropractic care with a primary concern of a ‘clicky wrist’ and a request for a spinal check. An existing diagnosis of Periodic Fever Syndrome was discovered during the history and examination: a condition which affected the patient significantly approximately every two weeks.

Intervention/Outcomes: A course of chiropractic care commenced, during which the focus was a reduction in vertebral subluxations. Over the course of care, the frequency and severity of the periodic fever syndrome reduced significantly.

Conclusion: Chiropractic care for the reduction of vertebral subluxation may impact physical resilience and adaptability, which in this case manifested as a significant improvement in Periodic Fever Syndrome. Further research is required to isolate and confirm the mechanisms behind such improvement. See the full report here.

Improvement in adaptability concomitant with paediatric chiropractic care: A series of 5 cases. (Dukovac N, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Objective/Clinical Features: Four cases addressing chiropractic care and sleep, energy and behaviour are presented, with diversified technique as the primary method of reducing subluxations.

Intervention/Outcomes: Subluxation-based care was delivered via diversified technique with care plans tailored to meet parent and chiropractor recommendations.

Conclusion: Chiropractic care for the reduction of subluxations may contribute to enhanced nervous system coherence, thus allowing the child to better adapt to their environment, resulting in better sleep and behaviour. In terms of the research agenda of the ASRF these cases demonstrate an improvement in patient adaptability seems associated with subluxation correction. Further research is required to understand the mechanisms behind these improvements. Read full report here.

Resolution of Breastfeeding Issues with present Tethered Oral Tissues concomitant with chiropractic care: A series of 7 cases. (Dukovac N, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Objective/Clinical Features: This case series covers seven cases where breastfeeding issues presented with tethered oral ties, both of which improved concomitant with subluxation-based chiropractic care.

Intervention/Outcomes: Chiropractic care for the reduction of subluxation was delivered via diversified technique, modified to suit the age, size and tensile strength of the infant, and complemented by dural stretches, and oral soft tissue therapy. Across all cases, improvements in breastfeeding outcomes and/or tethered oral tissues were noted.

Conclusion: While the attending chiropractor makes no claim to fixing oral ties, rather than subluxation-based care may improve neural connection and reduce cervical subluxations resulting in improved oral muscle tone and breastfeeding outcomes. Further research is required. Read full report here.

Resolution of Infant Reflux Concomitant with Chiropractic Care: A series of 5 cases. (Dukovac N, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Objective/Clinical Features: Colic and reflux are common complaints for infants and neonates, and both conditions represent potentially complex aetiologies. From a chiropractic standpoint, subluxation-based care that ensures optimal oral function and suck-swallow coordination is of value for supporting mothers and babies dealing with reflux. Also, reducing physical stress on the nervous system via vertebral subluxation reduction may change the infant from being in sympathetic nervous system overdrive to a more balanced state with parasympathetic system, allowing for decreased sensitivity of gag reflex, and improved function of digestive system.

Intervention/Outcomes: Subluxation-based care of five infants with colic and/or reflux, using modified diversified technique and oral soft tissue therapy was concomitant with a significant reduction or complete resolution of colic or reflux.

Conclusion: Chiropractic care for the reduction of subluxations may support digestive processes and gag reflex sensitivity via restoring balance between sympathetic and parasympathetic systems, as well as improved suck swallow reflex coordination in infants. Read full report here.

Paediatric Chiropractic Care and Improved Range of Motion: A limited case series. (Dukovac N, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Objective/Clinical Features: This limited case series presents two infants who were born via long or assisted labours, who went on to experience issues related to range of motion. They underwent subluxation-based chiropractic care using diversified techniques which were modified for their age and tensile strengths.

Intervention/Outcomes: A reduction in subluxation listings was concomitant with an increase in range of motion and/or a resolution of shoulder dystocia and other subjective improvements self-reported by parents.

Conclusion: Birth is a significant event for both mother and baby. Given the prevalence of restricted range of motion in infants, chiropractic care may be considered a positive care modality for infants who have limited range of motion or birth trauma. Further research is required. Read full report here.

Depression, ligament instability and chronic pain improvement concomitant with a course of concentrated Chiropractic Care: A Case Report. (McIvor C, Postlethwaite R, Kolterman S, Martin A.)

ABSTRACT

Introduction: A 65-year-old female presented for care with a primary concern of worsening depression and chronic pain. Further investigation revealed cervical ligament instability, hypertension, abnormally high surface spinal EMG readings and a multiple subluxations.. She commenced a course of concentrated chiropractic care whereby she received 41 spinal adjustments and a number of other supports via the Averio Functional Neurological Technique.

Outcomes: Following one week of concentrated care, the patient self-reported significant decreases in negative thinking and depressive symptoms. Post-care tests revealed normalisation of Fakuda’s and King Devick’s tests and reductions in subluxations coinciding with a reduction in patient-reported pain levels.

Conclusion: Chiropractic care may be of value in the management of depression and chronic pain. Further research is required to determine the mechanisms. Read full report here.

Improved Mental Health and Quality of Life in a 51-Year-Old Male under Chiropractic care: A Case Report (Seaman R, Postlethwaite R, McIver C.)

ABSTRACT

A 51-year-old male presented with a primary complaint of low back pain. Further investigation revealed poor mental health and reduced quality of life following a diagnosis of and treatment for prostate cancer.

Following a course of Chiropractic care, his range of motion and low back pain improved and there was a marked improvement in his Quality of Life and Mental Health. Quality of Life improvement was measured by the RAND instrument and improved Mental Health was consistently self-reported by the patient with no prompting.

This case report illustrates the need for more research into Mental Health outcomes improving concomitant with Chiropractic care. Read full report here.

Chiropractic and multidisciplinary management of a traumatic injury in a 38 year old female: A case report (Real-Jiménez CI, Postlethwaite R, McIver C.)

ABSTRACT

A 38y male presented for chiropractic care following traumatic injury in which he was hit by a bus while on his bicycle, yielding multiple severe injuries requiring surgical repair.

A multidisciplinary course of care was necessary to address the severe pain, impairment, and limitations to movement in the post-surgical stages.

This case report details complex injury, with gait abnormalities and pelvic instability, and the risk of losing a limb. Read full report here.

Improvement in Forward-Head posture, Mental Health and Erectile Function in a 42-Year-Old Male under Chiropractic care: A case report (Croke O, Postlethwaite R, McIver C.)

ABSTRACT

A 42-year-old male presented for chiropractic care with primary complaints of worsening low back pain with referred pain spreading to both glutes and down his legs.

A complex history of mental illness, stress, and alcoholism as well as dependance on pharmacological intervention was noted.

Over the course of care, the patient noted significant improvements in his mental health leading him to decrease his antidepressant medication. He also noticed significant improvement in erectile function.

Outcomes were consistent with improvements in objective tests, postural findings, and with no other significant changes to lifestyle or medical management. This case indicates that further research into chiropractic care and mental health outcomes, as well as chiropractic care and male reproductive health may be beneficial. Read full report here.

Improvement in self-reported Mental Processing and Quality of Life in a 74-year old male concomitant with Chiropractic care for LBP: A case report. (Seaman R, Postlethwaite R, McIver C.)

ABSTRACT

A 74-year-old male presented for Chiropractic care with concerns relating to back pain, hypertension and reflux.

Over the course of care, he noted that his mental acuity improved. This was significant given he was acting in board and organisational roles post-retirement, and self-reported increased mental sharpness and ability to think and act strategically.

These findings, though anecdotal and in addition to his primary reasons for care, are consistent with Chiropractic research indicating that Chiropractic care has impacts on the prefrontal cortex area of the brain. Read full report here.

Resolution of infertility concomitant with chiropractic care in a 28-year-old female: A case report. (Steinberg B, Gordon K, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Background: A 28-year-old female presented for chiropractic care with a chief complaint of persistent infertility. With a current and past history of chronic stress, poor weight control and metabolism, she returned positive findings for subluxation prior to the commencement of care.

Management: The patient was managed using subluxation-based Chiropractic care, with Torque Release Technique, Integrator instrument and using Pelvic Drops, SOT blocks and manual (HVLA) adjustments for a period of 12 weeks.

Outcomes: The patient was able to achieve and maintain a viable pregnancy and gave birth to her first child following Chiropractic care. Read full report here.

Improved fertility outcomes following multiple IVF failures in a patient with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Hashimoto’s Disease. (McIvor C, Postlethwaite R, Martin A, Kotlerman S.)

ABSTRACT

Background: A 32-year-old female presented for care with chief complaints of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Hashimoto’s Disease and infertility. She had undergone five failed rounds of IVF, suffered one ectopic pregnancy, and reported significant levels of psychological stress, and a history of injury and physical trauma.

Treatment: The patient presented for care at a facility specialising in concentrated chiropractic care where a regenerative chiropractic and functional neurological protocol is followed”, and wide-ranging blood panels and other testing are used to establish a baseline for the patient. She undertook two separate weeks of concentrated care, seven months apart.

Outcomes: Three weeks after the second week of care, she underwent another round of IVF and was able to achieve a healthy pregnancy which is progressing well in its third trimester at the time of writing. No other significant changes to her medical history or management were noted during this time, only the inclusion of a course of concentrated chiropractic care. Read full report here.

Improvement in reproductive health in a 38-year-old female under chiropractic care. (Steinberg B, Gordon K, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Background: A 38-year-old female patient presented for chiropractic care with chief complaints relating to irregular menstrual cycles and infertility as well as tension in her neck, shoulders and low back. She commenced a course of chiropractic care for the reduction of subluxations using a variety of techniques to facilitate her care.

Outcomes: Following a course of chiropractic care a range of objective findings indicating improved autonomic nervous system function were noted alongside a reduction in the length of her menstrual cycle from 60-90 days to 43 days. We consider this indicates improved hormonal and reproductive health. Read full report here.

Improvement in aggression, hyperactivity and social skills in a 4-year-old male with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A case report. (Aguilar D, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Background: A four-year-old patient with Autism Spectrum Disorder was presented for care, with parents citing concerns around aggression, hyperactivity and poor social functioning.

Management: The patient commenced a course of chiropractic care during which manual adjusting and activator methods were deployed (modified to be age appropriate). His care was subluxation-based and not symptom specific.

Outcomes: Concurrent with a reduction in subluxations, the child’s mother reported a reduction in aggression, destructive behaviour and hyperactivity. This case report indicates that further research into the role of Chiropractic in patients with neurodivergent conditions such as ADHD and ASD is warranted. Read full report here.

Increased interpersonal connectedness and decreased agitation in a 6y male with Autism and Attention-Deficit-Hyperactive Disorder: A case report. (Johnson K, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Background: A six-year-old male presented for Chiropractic care with a dual diagnosis of Autism, and Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder. The child’s parents reported agitation and low interpersonal connectedness as primary concerns, and the child was non-verbal at the time of his presentation.

Management: The patient was placed on a six-month care plan during which he was checked for subluxations and adjusted according to the MC2 protocol.

Outcomes: At the conclusion of the care plan, parents and teachers reported that he his verbal ability was increasing, his agitation had significantly decreased, and his interpersonal skills were showing marked improvement. Read full report here.

Improved mental clarity, balance, and digestive function, and normalised gait in 63-year-old female under chiropractic care: A case report. (Steinberg B, Clodgo-Gorden K, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Background: A 63-year-old female presented for care with primary concerns of balance issues, brain fog and difficulty walking. Secondary concerns included tendonitis and digestive issues.

Management: The patient commenced a course of subluxation-based chiropractic care during which numerous techniques were used. These included Sacro-occipital technique, Torque Release Technique, Thompson, Diversified, and Toggle Recoil.

Outcomes: At the conclusion of her care plan, the patient reported significant improvements in all symptomatology, concomitant with reductions in subluxation findings and other objective tests. Additionally, mental clarity, mood, and energy were all improved. Read full report here.

Pain and ideation of self-harm in a 49y female addressed with chiropractic care leading to decreased pain and improved QoL: A case report. (Treahy-Geofreda T, Lanoue B, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Background: A 49-year-old female patient presented for care with primary complaints of chronic neuropathic pain, depression, insomnia and suicidal ideation, the latter of which was attributed to her pain length and severity, and the lack of ability to achieve relief with other care modalities.

Management: She commenced a course of chiropractic care for subluxation correction. During the care period, the chiropractor used Diversified (manual), Thompson, and Activator methods. Specific protocols were observed for Cervical Syndrome. Derifield Pelvic Analysis was used, as was a drop table.

Outcomes: At the conclusion of the course of care the patient’s pain had significantly reduced and numerous symptoms had resolved. The patient reported that she had regained the will to live, and no longer suffered from suicidal ideation. Read full report here.

Improved Heart Rate Variability, mood, reproductive health and gut function, and decreased eczema symptoms in a 30-year-old female under chiropractic care: A case report. (Steinberg B, Clodgo-Gorden K, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Background: A 30-year-old female patient presented for care at a chiropractic clinic with a primary complaint of decreased strength. Further examination revealed more specific symptoms of low back pain, neck pain, stiffness, fatigue, eczema and low energy.

Management: The patient commenced a course of subluxation-based chiropractic care during utilising Torque Release Technique, Toggle Recoil, Thompson, Gonstead and Sacro-Occipital Technique with pelvic/sacral blocks.

Outcomes: At the conclusion of her care plan, the patient reported improved mood, menstrual health, and gut function, reduced eczema and better sleep and energy. This was concomitant with a reduction in subluxation findings, and improvements in objective measurements (Heart rate variability and sEMG). Read full report here.

Improvement in sleep, mental health, heavy metal toxicity and adaptability concomitant with Chiropractic care in a 47-year-old female cancer-patient undergoing chemotherapy: A Case Report. (Kotlerman S, Martin A, Carter M, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Background: A 47-year-old female patient with stage four breast cancer and lymphatic involvement, as well as several secondary physical complaints and psychological stressors, presented for chiropractic care following six sessions of chemotherapy. This was her second bout with cancer, having survived Hodgkins Lymphoma.

Intervention: The patient underwent three, five-day courses of concentrated chiropractic care with complementary care modalities, in addition to her oncological treatment plan.

Outcomes: The patient was able to achieve full remission of her cancer as well as marked improvements in sleep, mental health, and physical adaptability.

Conclusion: This case report provides an impetus for further investigations into chiropractic care and cancer, especially heavy metal toxicity, cancer, and chiropractic care. Read full report here.

Improved sleep, mood and physical resilience and decreased pain in a 46-year-old female under chiropractic care: A Case Report (Steinberg B, Clodgo-Gorden K, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Background: A 46-year-old female presented for chiropractic care with pain in the pelvis following a motor vehicle accident one year prior. At the time of presentation, she had severely limited physical resilience, limited ability to walk, lie down or stay in one position for too long, and she had a long medical history of other physical health problems.

Management: The patient commenced chiropractic care, to which she was a novice, in the hopes of achieving reduced pain. She commenced a 12-session care plan and was adjusted using Torque Release Technique, with Instrument-assistant (integrator), Manual adjustments (HVLA), SOT blocks (pelvic region), Drop table (sacro-pelvic region) and Toggle board (upper cervical region).

Outcome: After 12 sessions of chiropractic care, she reported increased sleep, mood, energy and physical functioning, decreased pain, decreased dermatitis, increased digestive function and reported that she felt more alive than she had in years. Read full report here.

Improvement in digestive health in a 24-year-old male under Chiropractic care: A case report  (Leahy AE, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Background: A 24-year-old male elite athlete presented for care with primary concerns of Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms that had not resolved or improved under traditional medical care.

Management: The patient was managed using Advanced Bio-Structural Correction Technique, including Meningeal releases, in assessing and correcting subluxation.

Outcomes: A 70% improvement in symptoms was reached during the first four weeks of care, with full resolution of symptoms soon after. Read full report here.

Restored heart function and reduced recovery time in a 36-year-old female patient following a Pulmonary Embolism and induced coma: A case report  (Luu J, Atkinson B, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Background: A fit, healthy, regularly adjusted 36-year-old female suffered a pulmonary embolism following a long haul flight from the USA. Emergency Medical care included intubation and an induced coma before discharge at which point she underwent an intensive regime of Chiropractic care.

Intervention: While the patient considered she was lucky to have survived the incident at all, post hospital discharge she opted for Chiropractic care. This was provided using diversified technique, Thompson and drop piece adjusting techniques was deployed following discharge from hospital. This regime of care aligned with the patient’s Chiropractic philosophy.

Outcome: The patient was fully recovered within three weeks of discharge from hospital, with heart function within normal limits. Given the life-threatening nature of the incident, and the normal recovery time for such patients, we feel this is significant and may provide rationale for further study into Chiropractic care and improved recovery times. Read full report here.

Decreased thigh pain and increased mental acuity and physical performance in a 26-year-old male under Chiropractic care: A case report (Hawkes D, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Background: A 26-year old male testicular cancer survivor presented for Chiropractic care with a primary complaint of intermittent thigh pain.

Intervention: The patient underwent a course of subluxation-based Chiropractic care during which he was checked and adjusted using Advanced Bio-Structural Correction Technique.

Outcome: Despite a singular presenting concern of intermittent thigh pain from an four-year-old injury, he returned numerous other positive outcomes he attributed to Chiropractic.

This presents numerous questions as to the body’s state of adaptability even years after cancer, and the role Chiropractic may play in building up this adaptability again over time. Read full report here.

Improvement in low tone and retained primitive reflexes in a 15-week-old female concomitant with Chiropractic care: A case report. (Pryjma J, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Background: A fifteen-week-old infant was presented for chiropractic care with the mother listing concerns that the infant could not participate in life the way she should. The infant was behind on all her milestones, was showing head asymmetry, and inability to to lift her head or respond to caregivers the way she should.

Intervention: The infant commenced a course of chiropractic care, during which the patient was adjusted using the Diversified technique, with assistance from the baby drop piece, vibrations, hands-on adjusting, Sacro-occipital technique basics and cranial adjusting. Dural support was used, along with Activator methods and logan, all of which were modified for age-appropriateness.

Outcomes: In addition to significant improvements in her subluxations, the infant was able to make strong leaps forward in tone, responses and reflex integration. She was able to fully regain age-appropriate developmental milestones and undertake strength and skill-based tests appropriate to her age. Parents remarked that she was like a completely different child. Read full report here.

Improvements in anxiety and suicidal ideation in a 14-year-old female undergoing a concentrated program of Chiropractic care: A case report. (Kotlerman S, Martin A, Pierce D, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Background: A 14-year-old female presented for a concentrated course of Chiropractic care with primary concerns of poor mental health, including severe chronic anxiety and suicide ideation. A historical diagnosis of anxiety at age five and Developmental Apraxia at age six had preceded her present condition, as well as a childhood history of other non-musculoskeletal presentations, including allergies, poor sleep, and digestive issues.

Intervention: The patient commenced a weeklong course of concentrated Chiropractic care, during which she received 104 low-force, specific upper cervical adjustments. These specific chiropractic adjustments were accomplished using the Averio FNT Chiropractic Technique, a specific, sustained contact, low-force Chiropractic technique. The purpose of this course of concentrated chiropractic care was to cause a regenerative event in the patient’s body by reversing vertebral subluxations and allowing for a non-surgical regeneration of the patient’s damaged spinal ligaments and overall improvement of the central nervous system function. It was hypothesised that if the spine and central nervous system could be made healthier, it would likely have an impact on the patient’s presentation of mental illness.

Outcomes: While objective measures indicated significant improvements in the patient’s subluxation status, significant subjective changes were noted following care. The patient reported a complete reversal of suicidal ideations six weeks following the course of Chiropractic care, as well as a significant reduction in chronic severe anxiety, improved social behaviour, and improved sleep and appetite. The patient’s radiographic reassessment six months later showed a complete stabilisation of the ligament damage in the cervical spine and a 121% improvement in the cervical lordosis. Read full report here.

Improvement in mood, sleep, head symmetry and socioemotional engagement in a 19-month-old male concomitant with chiropractic care: A case report. (Pryjma J, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Background: A 19-month old male was presented for Chiropractic care with his mother noting concerns about his emotional state. He was constantly agitated and emotional, and the mother also reported issues with he had issues with moods and reactions, sleep, head shape (asymmetry), poor neck movement and position, difficulties with digestion and feeding, as well as some difficulties with crawling and walking.

Intervention: The patient was placed on a course of chiropractic care during which he was adjusted using Diversified Technique, with hands-on adjusting using Manual adjusting and Activator methods. Tonal checks, Logan technique, and Cranial work were also utilised.

Outcomes: Significant improvements in the patient’s subluxation listings were noted alongside massive changes in his affect and ability to engage with life. His parents described him as “a completely different child.” Spinal range of motion, digestion, head symmetry and other secondary concerns also improved significantly. Read full report here.

Improved digestion, sleep and mood in an 8-month-old male under Chiropractic care: A case report. (Watson A, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Background: An 8-month-old male was presented for Chiropractic care with parental concerns primarily related to sleep, muscle strength and digestion. In addition to these stated concerns, his parents were concerned about sleep, excessive gagging and vomiting on solid food, hypersensitivity to touch and a regression in skill levels. Hypotonicity and breastfeeding issues were also flagged as problematic.

Intervention: The infant was placed on a Chiropractic care plan, whereby he was managed using Diversified and Activator methods, in addition to spinal adjusting and peripheral adjusting, all modified to be appropriate for his age and tensile strength.

Outcomes: Significant positive changes were noted across all the stated areas of concern, concomitant with Chiropractic care. While the infant continued under Chiropractic care after the period of the initial care plan, the changes meant parents were able to work with the chiropractor to resolve issues relating to hypersensitivities, hypertonicity, feeding, sleeping, mood and more. Read full report here.

Improvement in movement, function, primitive reflexes and digestion in a 4-month-old female concomitant with Chiropractic care. (Watson A, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C.)

ABSTRACT

Background: A 12-week-old female was presented for Chiropractic care with parents listing primary concerns of screaming during tummy time, difficulty lifting her head, and exhibiting no arm weight-bearing ability. Further examination revealed difficulties with digestion, a significant head tilt resulting in flat spots (plagiocephaly) on the rear of the head, and excessive gagging while sleeping.

Management: The infant was placed on a care plan where she was seen twice a week for three weeks, and then a further two sessions. During this time she was cared for using spinal adjusting, cranial and palate adjusting, as well as peripheral adjusting for shoulder dysfunction. All methods were modified appropriately for the infant’s stage of development.

Outcomes: Significant improvements were noted across all areas of concern, and the infant was able to clear her milestones whereas she had been lagging behind prior to care. This case report illustrates the potential for chiropractic to support developmental milestones by integrating primitive reflexes, supporting the development of the cervical curve, and allowing the nervous system to better adapt to issues like feeding, sleeping and overall well-being. Read full report here.