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I’ve heard many anecdotal stories similar to Jen’s, and I think proper imaging should be accessible to every patient who needs it. But in the absence of access to care, many people are trying DIY neck solutions. Please DON’T. 2/9
Four years ago, my husband was in PT for a neck problem. A fully trained PT manipulated his neck a little to quickly, and partially tore my husband’s left vertebral artery. 36 hours we were in the ER because my husband had suffered a stroke in his medulla. 3/9
The medulla is the part of the brain that controls vision, balance, breathing, heart rate and lots of other important things. Medullary stroke is really really bad- usually fatal or severely disabling. 4/9
My husband got off lucky, so so lucky. But he’ll never work again. Damage to the vertebral arteries is a KNOWN risk of neck manipulation, but his PT did not warn him and then caused the artery tear. 5/9
When I read about people with ME trying neck manipulation or cervical collars or other forms of neck stabilization or movement, I cringe. This can be so dangerous, and even more so without the guidance of trained medical professionals. 6/9
Please, my friends, be careful. Work with qualified doctors and therapists. Do not attempt these things yourself. Your life may depend on it. 7/9
Please don’t say you don’t care, that ME is worse. My husband and I live with both now: ME and the long term effects of a medullary stroke caused by a minor neck manipulation. He could have DIED. In his 40s. 8/9
.@jenbrea’s case demonstrates how important the cervical spine is to good health and functioning. I hope people don’t end up worse off by trying DIY spine fixes. Please seek advice/assistance from experts. 9/9
