Multimodal Management of Coexisting Atlantoaxial Subluxation and Spinal Stenosis in an Older Adult: A Case Report and Literature Review

Cureus. 2024 Jan 1;16(1):e51442. doi: 10.7759/cureus.51442. eCollection 2024 Jan.

Abstract

This case report investigates the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges caused by the coexistence of atlantoaxial subluxation and spinal stenosis in a 70-year-old male patient with chronic progressive numbness in both hands. A detailed assessment showed that the patient's symptoms were primarily caused by spinal stenosis, not atlantoaxial subluxation. Considering the patient's age and preference for nonsurgical treatment, a conservative chiropractic care plan was implemented, significantly improving his symptoms and quality of life. This case highlights the potential benefit of conservative chiropractic care in managing such complex cases, emphasizes the need for meticulous diagnosis, and requires further research to validate these findings and develop comprehensive management guidelines.

Keywords: anterolisthesis; atlantoaxial subluxation; c12 subluxation; chiropractic; spinal stenosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports