In
this case, a 17-year-old girl came to the chiropractor with health
concerns that included an astrocytoma that was surgically removed
from her cerebellum four years earlier. According to the American
Brain Tumor Association, "Astrocytomas are tumors that arise
from astrocytes—star-shaped cells that make up the 'glue-like' or
supportive tissue of the brain." The authors of the study
explain that the cerebellum is part of the central nervous system
(CNS) and has no direct ability to cause muscle contraction, but if
harmed or removed, body movements become uncoordinated and abnormal.
In
addition to the brain tumor removal, the young girl also reported a
history of scoliosis, headaches, tremors, fatigue, loss of balance,
and dizziness. After her brain surgery, the girl experienced a
significant decline in her postural control, her speech began to slow
and was slurred, and her balance became difficult to maintain. Her
balance got so bad that she was no longer trusted to drive. She also
had fatigue and headaches that were debilitating and caused her to
vomit. Her history noted that, prior to these symptoms, she was an
avid dancer and soccer player, and was not taking any medication.
A
chiropractic examination was performed which included palpation,
thermography, and x-rays. From this examination, it was determined
that the young woman had subluxations in the upper neck creating
nerve system interference. A series of specific corrective
chiropractic adjustments was initiated for the correction of the
subluxations.
The
patient stated that she began noticing changes by her second visit.
By the 24th visit, the patient reported that her balance had improved
from a 6 out of 10 to a 9 out of 10 since starting chiropractic care.
She also stated that her speech had improved over 90% since beginning
care, and that she feels it is smoother and less choppy.
In
their conclusion the authors wrote, "This case report outlines
subluxation-based chiropractic care of a 17-year-old female who was
experiencing a loss of balance, difficulty with speech and postural
problems following the removal of an astrocytoma from her cerebellum.
This is one case demonstrating an improvement in balance, speech and posture while under chiropractic care."
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