A Case Study & Review of the Literature

Objective: The purpose of this case study is to provide a detailed report of the subjective and objective improvements of irritable bowel syndrome in a patient undergoing subluxation-based chiropractic care.

Clinical Features: A 20-year-old female patient presented to a private chiropractic practice for consultation regarding symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) including fatigue, diarrhea, constipation, menstrual pain and irregularities, ulcers, and stomach upset. She additionally suffered from neck and back pain and had a history of bulimia and anorexia.

Intervention and Outcomes: The patient was adjusted a total of 12 times during the initial care plan, in which she received high-velocity low-amplitude (HVLA) adjustments to the spine to reduce vertebral subluxations. The patient reported a 70% improvement of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms by the 12th visit. Progressive exam revealed improvement in leg length inequality and a decrease in asymmetry of bilateral weight distribution. Range of motion was restored in lumbar flexion and extension.

Conclusion: A case of a 20-year-old female suffering from symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome presented for care. The patient reported improvement in her condition by the 12th visit. Progressive exam revealed an improvement in leg length inequality, bilateral weight distribution, and lumbar range of motion. The purpose of this paper was to report on these positive health outcomes and call for additional research in this area.

Key Words: irritable bowel syndrome, chiropractic, vertebral subluxation, adjustment, bulimia, anorexia