Many people go to chiropractors to seek relief from a number of types of aches and pains caused by injuries or simply aging. While most people receive relief from chiropractic treatments, sometimes things can go horribly wrong.
The family of a 34-year-old woman wants to help ensure that no one else suffers the pain they have felt. The woman, a mother and model, suffered a stroke earlier this year and subsequently died. The stroke, they say, was caused by an injury that resulted from a treatment performed by her chiropractor.
According to the local coroner, the woman’s death was caused by a “vertebral artery dissection.” That’s a tear in a major artery. A tear in an artery that moves blood to the brain, is, according to the lawyer for the woman’s estate, “more common than people think” if a chiropractor makes an over-adjustment to the person’s neck.
The woman’s sister says that while a fatal outcome from such a treatment is rare, “I was shocked to see how many cases there are.” One neurosurgeon, who also says that although such a tragic outcome is unusual, advises that it’s best for people to refuse any chiropractic adjustments that include a rapid neck twist.
Although chiropractors aren’t medical doctors, the treatments that they perform can cause serious and even fatal injuries. If you or a loved one has suffered an injury or worse that you believe was caused by the actions of a chiropractor, it’s advisable to seek legal guidance to determine what your legal options are. An experienced Mississippi malpractice attorney can provide guidance and support.
Source: CBS News, “Family hopes Playboy model’s death brings awareness to chiropractic risks,” Oct. 21, 2016
