Case History:

34 yo female with persistent neck pain, HA and nausea exacerbated after adjustment

Contributed By:
Satya Sardonicus, DC, CACCP
Case Presentation: Page 2 of 6

Differential diagnoses may include:

  • Multiple Sclerosis – due to neurological symptoms, dizziness, and chronic fatigue.
  • Brain Tumor – as a possible cause of progressive headaches and neurological dysfunction.
  • Cerebellar Tonsillar Ectopia (CTE) – given the presence of occipital headaches, dizziness, and adverse responses to cervical adjusting.
  • Chronic Migraine – considering the persistent headaches, visual sensitivity, and nausea.
  • Cervicogenic Dizziness – due to neck pain and balance issues.
  • Vestibular Dysfunction – as a possible contributor to dizziness and nausea.

 

Physical Examination Findings

  • Neurological Exam:
    • Positive Romberg’s test with balance difficulties.
    • Poor pupillary light response, triggering dizziness.
    • Hyperreflexia in the upper limbs.
  • Palpation Findings:
    • Tension and sensitivity in the upper cervical musculature.
    • Dural fascial tension extending into the thoracic spine.
  • Orthopedic Exam:
    • Seated Soto Hall test - patient automatically reduces cervical flexion during forward fold, and when instructed to flex neck, complains of exacerbated symptoms.
    • Lumbar flexion measured in Seated Soto Hall test revealed increased ROM with cervical extension and plantar flexion, and decreased ROM with cervical flexion and ankle dorsiflexion. 
  • Muscle Testing:
    • Weakness in deltoid muscle with head rotation.
    • All muscles tested scored in the range of 3-4 out of 5 on the Oxford scale (no muscles 5/5).

 

Question: What diagnostic imaging or tests would you order?

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