Pamela Stone-McCoy, DC, CACCP & Zoe C. Pogrelis, DC

Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health, Chiropractic ~ February 25, 2019 ~ Pages 11-18

Abstract

Objective: To report on the positive health outcomes following the chiropractic management of a child with intention tremor and to review the related literature.

Clinical Features: A 20-month-old male child presented to a chiropractic office with intention tremor in his right upper extremity, wide gait, posterior and static posturing of arms, and speech articulation delay with signs of vertebral subluxations.

Interventions and Outcomes: Vertebral subluxations were addressed utilizing an Activator adjusting instrument. Indicators of vertebral subluxations were assessed using static and motion palpation findings. Cross-crawl at-home exercises were also advised as part of the care plan. Paraspinal thermal readings indicated a decrease in dysautonomia during reassessment. Frequency of intention tremor significantly decreased and parents reported a marked improvement in the patient’s overall quality of life. Verbal communication skills also improved after two months of care.

Conclusion: This case reports on positive health outcomes following chiropractic in a child with intention tremor. Clinical research on chiropractic care for children with non-cerebral palsy cerebellar dysfunction is lacking, however, the proprioceptive pathway between the spine and the brain has been explored and mapped. This gap in research should be further investigated.

Key Words: chiropractic, intention tremor, pediatric, cerebellar dysfunction, speech delay, vertebral subluxation, adjustment, gait