A 49-year-old female employed with a correction facility presented to our clinic with persistent upper back and neck spasms that had begun in mid-August 2025.
The pain, described as intermittent but intense, was aggravated by her work setup both unavoidable, which included a 20-minute commute and approximately seven hours of seated desk work.
Her condition also began to affect her ability to perform certain physical duties required within the prison’s “fence” area.
Chief Complaints
- Upper back and neck spasms present for approximately one week prior to her initial visit.
- Pain intensity rated 8/10 at its worst.
- On going tenderness particularly to the knee.
Medical & Lifestyle History
- Past Surgeries: Gastric sleeve (2014–2016) and knee (meniscus) surgery in 2014.
- Exercise: Walks and stretches occasionally; assists with horses once per week.
- No major traumas or car accidents reported.
- Medications used for temporary relief included meloxicam, Flexeril, and topical Lidocaine patches.
Initial Examination Findings
Initial X-rays and physical examinations revealed notable postural strain and muscular tension throughout the cervical and upper thoracic spine.
Cervical Spine Range of Motion:
- Flexion: 40° (normal 60°)
- Extension: 50° (normal 60°)
- Lateral Flexion (Left): 35° (normal 45°)
- Lateral Flexion (Right): 35° (normal 45°)
- Rotation (Left): 70° (normal 80°)
- Rotation (Right): 70° (normal 80°)
The subject had also brought in an MRI of a previous knee injury (Meniscus Tear). That we also used as a basis for treatment.
Customized Care Plan
The patient underwent a personalized three-month corrective care program focused on reducing muscle tension on her knee, improving spinal alignment, and preventing recurrence of spasms.
Her treatment plan included:
- 12 Chiropractic Adjustments – to restore joint motion, reduce tension, and correct spinal misalignment.
- 12 Spinal Decompression Sessions – targeting cervical and thoracic segments to alleviate pressure and improve disc hydration.
- 6 Sessions of Shockwave Therapy – to accelerate tissue repair and relieve chronic muscle tightness.
- 2 Re-evaluations – conducted at regular intervals to assess progress and make necessary adjustments to care.
Post-Treatment Results
After completing her treatment program, the patient reported an estimated 85% overall improvement in her neck pain intensity.
Cervical Range of Motion:
- Flexion: Improved from 40° → 45° (normal 50°)
- Extension: Improved from 50° → 55° (normal 60°)
- Lateral Flexion – Left: Improved from 35° → 40° (normal 45°)
- Lateral Flexion – Right: Improved from 35° → 40° (normal 45°)
- Rotation – Left: Improved from 70° → 75° (normal 80°)
- Rotation – Right: Improved from 70° → 75° (normal 80°)
These results indicate notable functional progress across all planes of movement, particularly in flexion and lateral motion.
As a note we had also performed shockwave therapy running at 4000 pulses per session on the front and back sides of her knee 4 times so far and she is scheduled for another 2 more at least.
Final Outcome
Early in her treatment, a medical recommendation was issued to modify her work duties to prevent aggravating her condition and reduce the likelihood of surgery. With consistent chiropractic care, spinal decompression therapy, and shockwave therapy.
She has since regained a comfortable range of motion and is now able to perform her regular tasks without restriction.
Her progress demonstrates how early, non-invasive intervention can help patients avoid surgery and staying productive by Taking Advantage of our $97 new patient special or Call: 720-573-4910
This special offer includes a full consultation, X-rays, and a fully customized treatment plan designed for your unique needs.