Visual field loss resulting from cervical chiropractic manipulation

Am J Ophthalmol. 1997 Jun;123(6):851-2. doi: 10.1016/s0002-9394(14)71144-4.

Abstract

Purpose: To report a complication of chiropractic cervical manipulation.

Method: Case report. A healthy 39-year-old woman developed sudden left peripheral visual field loss after chiropractic neck manipulation.

Results: Visual field testing disclosed a left superior homonymous hemianopsia. A magnetic resonance imaging scan performed the day of the event disclosed acute infarction of the ventromedial aspect of the inferior right occipital lobe.

Conclusion: Cerebral infarct may occur as a result of chiropractic neck manipulation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Adult
  • Cerebral Infarction / diagnosis
  • Cerebral Infarction / etiology
  • Cervical Vertebrae*
  • Chiropractic*
  • Female
  • Hemianopsia / diagnosis
  • Hemianopsia / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Manipulation, Orthopedic / adverse effects*
  • Neck
  • Occipital Lobe / pathology
  • Visual Acuity
  • Visual Fields*