Improved Health Outcomes in a 58-Year-Old Female Patient with Parkinson’s Disease Following Chiropractic Management Utilizing Diversified Technique: A Case Study & Review of the Literature

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Kathleen Coutinho, DC & Mackenzie Shuford, DC

Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research ~ October 2, 2023 ~ Volume 2023 ~ Pages 130-140

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Abstract
Objective: To present the positive health outcomes experienced by a 58-year-old female patient with Parkinson’s disease and vertebral subluxations.

Clinical Features: The patient presented to the chiropractic clinic with chief complaints of Parkinson’s disease and upper trapezius pain. The patient was experiencing resting tremors of the right hand, weakness in the right arm, and bradykinesia. The patient was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease one year before presenting to the clinic for the initial history and physical examination.

Interventions and Outcomes: Over a one-year period, the patient was seen one time per week. The patient was evaluated and adjusted using Diversified technique. In addition, the patient received Active Release Technique treatment on the upper trapezius. The patient’s improvements included increased muscle strength of opponens pollicis, increased cervical range of motion, and decreased hypertonicity of the cervical and thoracic paraspinal muscles as well as the upper trapezius. The patient reported subjective improvements of the resting tremor, bradykinesia, and weakness of the right arm. The patient was able to return to performing daily walks for exercise.

Conclusion: Chiropractic care using Diversified technique may decrease the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease leading to a better quality of life for the patient. Further research is needed to explore the connection between chiropractic care and the role it has in the co-management of patients with Parkinson’s disease.

Keywords: Chiropractic, Parkinson’s disease, adjustment, vertebral subluxation, spinal manipulation, Diversified technique, tremors, bradykinesia