Neck vertebrae

[Pokermom]

My 19-year-old son has been going to a chiropractor for about a year. I first took him last summer to see if there was anything that could be done about his posture--he has a pronounced slump, with his head jutting forward. The chiropractor said he had a misaligned neck vertebrae, and used a machine to "tap" it back into place. The change in his posture was instant and remarkable--he stood straight as a rod. But a couple of days later, he was slumping again. And so on...he's been going periodically (when home from college), the adjustment works fine at first, but slips after a couple of days. At $60 a visit, I've finally gotten disgusted; also read recently that neck manipulation can be dangerous, leading to stroke. Thought I'd take him to an orthopedist, but the local group "doesn't do necks." They suggested a neurologist, but I have no clue if that's the right specialty for our problem. Does anyone have any information or suggestions? Thanks!!!

[Pokermom]

Made an appt. with my son's regular doctor, who said physical therapy was worth checking out; he also sent the chiropractor's set of x-rays to his radiologist, and finally called yesterday to say that the radiologist report says my son's neck is normal--no misaligned vertebrae. I don't know what to think at this point--has the chiro been scamming us? And if so, why does my son's posture temporarily but markedly improve whenever he gets an "adjustment"? We have an appt. with a PT next Tuesday so will see what comes of that.

[mithras]

@yahoo.com

[mithras]

Hey there, It is very interesting I came across your add. I am a 19 year old male going through the same problems. I have been going to a chiropractor for 6-8 months this year, and 3-4 months last year. Both times I was diagnosed with a reversed cervical curve and TMJ disorder. I did a complete face plant 2 years ago, knocked out my 2 front teeth and cracked another, bit through my lip, and knocked myself out. I am still in SUCH AGONY 2 years later from neck, head, and muscle pain. I am so fed up I am going tommorow and getting an MRI done of my neck and 2 more x-rays. My symptoms seem like they are more than just "prolonged whiplash." my e-mail is metal_guruxx***@**** you dont mind e-mailing me about your son's progress? Good luck!

[bo99]

I would try the physical therapist first.

[Pokermom]

I hadn't thought of that!  A neurologist sounded like overkill; a physical therapist might be the better alternative. Thanks for the suggestion!

[toolmaker]

Physical therapy can be used to improve posture.