Osteopathic manipulation resulting in damage to the spinal cord

British Medical Journal, 1985 · DOI: · Published: December 14, 1985

Spinal Cord Injury Alternative Medicine Healthcare

Simple Explanation

This letter to the editor discusses three cases where osteopathic manipulation may have led to acute spinal cord injuries requiring surgery. The author argues that while the decision to manipulate may have been ill-advised in these cases, it's not possible to conclude there was a clear contraindication based solely on the observed outcomes. The letter emphasizes the importance of trained and skilled practitioners, interprofessional understanding, and respect in manual medicine to ensure appropriate patient care and consultation with specialists.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Three patients undergoing osteopathic manipulation

Evidence Level

Case series

Key Findings

1
Three cases are presented where osteopathic manipulation is suspected to have resulted in acute spinal cord injury.
2
In two cases, surgical intervention was effective in minimizing subsequent morbidity; in the third case, the outcome was poor due to underlying carcinomatosis.
3
The letter suggests that careful examination and gentle manipulation can provide almost immediate relief and set patients on the path to full recovery in many cases.

Research Summary

A letter discusses three cases where osteopathic manipulation possibly caused spinal cord injuries, emphasizing the need for skilled practitioners and proper interprofessional collaboration. It highlights that while these cases raise concerns, they should be considered in the context of the thousands of effective manipulative treatments given. The author stresses the importance of careful patient examination and gentle manipulation for effective treatment, while also advocating for consultation with other specialists when necessary.

Practical Implications

Practitioner Training

Reinforces the need for rigorous training and skill development for osteopathic practitioners.

Interprofessional Collaboration

Emphasizes the importance of effective communication and collaboration between osteopaths, GPs, surgeons, and other specialists.

Patient Assessment

Highlights the necessity of thorough patient evaluation to identify contraindications and ensure appropriate treatment selection.

Osteopathic manipulation resulting in damage to the spinal cord

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Practitioner Training

Interprofessional Collaboration

Patient Assessment

Study Limitations

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Osteopathic manipulation resulting in damage to the spinal cord

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Practitioner Training

Interprofessional Collaboration

Patient Assessment

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?