Chiropractic Management of Lumbar Disc Herniation in a Patient With Co-existing Liver Cancer: A Case Report

Cureus. 2024 Jan 1;16(1):e51445. doi: 10.7759/cureus.51445. eCollection 2024 Jan.

Abstract

The current case report outlines the chiropractic management of a 30-year-old male construction worker who presented with symptoms of lumbar disc herniation with co-existing stage IV liver cancer. The patient reported experiencing substantial lower back pain and decreased sensation in his right leg following a fall at work, impacting his mobility and quality of life. The complexity of this case is underscored by the challenge of differentiating between pain due to metastatic disease and that related to the fall. The chiropractic treatment plan included gentle joint mobilization, instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization, and low-impact exercises tailored to the patient's overall health status. The treatment protocol markedly improved pain levels, range of motion, and overall quality of life. This case highlights the potential role of chiropractic care in managing complex cases of lumbar disc herniation, even in the presence of severe illnesses such as liver cancer. This study provides valuable insights into the importance of personalized and adaptable treatment strategies in managing such cases, contributing a unique perspective to the scientific literature.

Keywords: chiropractic; chiropractor; disc herniation; liver cancer; lumbar disc herniation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports