Epilepsy starts in the brain and often results in seizures without the presence of other conditions. Typically epilepsy affects both males and females equally. In 2013 in the United States, 1% of individuals under the age of 17 (750,000) and 1.8% of adults over the age of 18 (4.3 million) were diagnosed with epilepsy.
A recent survey revealed that more and more epileptic patients are seeking Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM), with more than 20% receiving Chiropractic care.
In this case study, a 22 year old female started Chiropractic care suffering with daily headaches and seizures typically occurring every 3 days. The seizures lasted from minutes to an hour. Unfortunately, medication had not been able to reduce the frequency of her seizures.
A detailed Chiropractic examination revealed postural abnormalities, and also tenderness and reduced movement of the C1 vertebra. Thermal scans were also done to further determine cervical subluxations were present and Chiropractic care was needed.
After 14 visits, the patient no longer had daily headaches and the frequency of the seizures had reduced significantly. A ‘Quality of Life in Epilepsy’ questionnaire showed that before beginning Chiropractic care, she scored a low 29.27. After care, her self assessed rating rose to a high 80.18, signifying a 50 point improvement on the epileptic outcome measure.
This case study is one of several showing how Chiropractic care can reduce the intensity and frequency of seizures.
Hartenburg, M., & Denton, A. (n.d.). Resolution of Seizures & Improvement in Quality of Life in a 22-Year-Old Female with Epilepsy Following Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care . Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research, 2017(1).
