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Abstract
Objective: To discuss the nonsurgical treatment of a cervical disk herniation with flexion distraction
manipulation.
Clinical Features: A case study of cervical disk syndrome with radicular symptoms is presented. Magnetic
resonance imaging revealed a large C5-C6 disk herniation. Degenerative changes at
the affected level were demonstrated on cervical spine plain film radiographs.
Intervention and Outcome: The patient received treatment in the form of flexion distraction manipulation and
adjunctive therapies. A complete resolution of the patient's subjective complaints
was achieved.
Conclusion: Flexion distraction has been a technique associated with musculoskeletal conditions
of the lumbar spine. Flexion distraction applied to the cervical spine might be an
effective therapy in the treatment of cervical disk herniations. Although further
controlled studies are needed, treatment of cervical disk syndromes with flexion distraction
might be a viable form of conservative care.
Key Indexing Terms
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Article info
Publication history
Received in revised form:
March 14,
2000
Received:
February 16,
2000
Identification
Copyright
© 2001 Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. Published by Elsevier Inc.
