Is One Cause of Trigeminal Neuralgia Subluxation of Craniocervical Posture?

Authors

• Robert H. Berry, DC
  
• Paul A. Oakley, DC
• Deed E. Harrison, DC

Publication

Journal of Contemporary Chiropractic 2020;3:28-35.

Article Link

Is One Cause of Trigeminal Neuralgia Subluxation of Craniocervical Posture?

Abstract

Objective: To describe the successful treatment of a patient with trigeminal neuralgia treated by the correction of craniocervical posture by Chiropractic Biophysics® technique methods.
Clinical Features: A 64-year-old male developed trigeminal neuralgia following a dental procedure. He had failed to get lasting relief after several prior dental treatments. Radiographic assessment revealed a lateral head translation as well as forward head posture and a military neck with notable degenerative changes between C4-C7.
Intervention and Outcome: Treatment was directed at improving the craniocervical subluxation misalignments using Chiropractic Biophysics methods. Mirror image® corrective exercises and traction techniques were used along with spinal manipulative therapy. After
initial improvement in posture, symptoms improved. Unforeseen worsening of posture correlated with worsening of symptoms, and then a re-correction of posture again, dramatically improved patient symptoms. A year follow-up indicated the patient remained well.
Conclusion: This case is unique in that the correction, worsening, and re-correction of posture appeared directly related to the painful symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia. Subluxation of the craniocervical posture may be a plausible cause in some cases of this disorder. Radiographic assessment is necessary to quantify postural deformity in this disorder. (J Contemporary Chiropr 2020;3:28-35)