Definition
the congenital (born with it) fusion of vertebrae into bony blocks that restrict movement of the neck and spine and possibly progress later in life.
Description
Klippel Feil's fusion of the cervical vertebrae may include any 2 or more of the 7 vertebrae. Its start was in the early weeks of fetal development when the normal dividing of the cervical vertebrae did not occur.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of Klippel Feil are a short neck, low hairline at the back of the head, and limited motion of the upper spine.
Examination
A thorough, clinical examination that may include imaging is important to your recovery.
Cervical Spine Exam Description
Treatment
In office, Gormish Chiropractic & Rehabilitation uses Cox Technic Flexion Distraction and Decompression to widen the canal space, drop the intradiscal pressure and increase the disc height to relieve pain.
Very gently and after careful tolerance testing, Cox Technic is utilized in treating the adjacent discs and joints to the fused segments. This regains and maintains mobility with the goal of reducing the incidence of degeneration at these adjacent levels to the fusion.
Graphic Animation of Cox Technic - Cervical Spine
The disc is pressing on the nerve. Note that as the disc herniation reduces, the pinched nerve is relieved.
This is an animation of the goal of Cox Technic
Flexion-Distraction and Decompression: reduced irritation of spinal elements
enough to relieve pain and help you regain your quality of life. The amount of
decrease in size of the herniated disc necessary for pain relief varies from 0%
to 100% for each individual patient.
Cox Technic Protocol I - for severe pain or pain that extends below the elbow
Cox Technic Protocol II - for pain that is in the neck and stays above the elbow
At Home Care
At home you will want to avoid sleeping on your stomach, wear a neck brace if recommended, take nutritional supplements that help rebuild disc cartilage, exercise, and modify your daily activities as needed. You will want to work closely with your doctor to ensure your treatment is properly administered and your return to maximum health is maximized.
Clinical Case Reports
Contact Gormish Chiropractic & Rehabilitation in Carrolltown for a thorough examination and gentle treatment of your Klippel Feil Syndrome.