• Wesdorf J
• Postlethwaite R
• McIvor C

• Adult
• Male
• Open Access Document
• Sleep Apnea, Obstructive
• Subluxation

Background: Disordered and inadequate sleep is a growing public health concern. One of the most common sleep disorders is obstructive sleep apnoea, a condition that interrupts sleep through multiple episodes of airway collapse and subsequent decrease in oxygen saturation.

With many of the treatments being invasive and the outcomes unreliable, there is a significant need for alternative and effective management options for individuals with OSA. The following case report details the effective management of obstructive sleep apnea in a young adult with chronic pain from previous injuries, with Chiropractic care. 

Intervention: The patient underwent a course of Chiropractic care during which he was adjusted two to three times per week using full spine adjusting, Diversified Technique with manual adjusting.  

Outcomes: At the completion of his care plan, his CPAP machine reported a 50% decrease in his apnea episodes, and his sleep quality had increased significantly. This was accompanied by notable increases in spinal range of motion tests, resolution of his cervical syndrome, and a decrease in musculoskeletal pain.  

Conclusion: This case report indicates that Chiropractic care may be useful in managing sleep apnea, but further research is required to confirm the mechanisms and strength of this effect.  

Author keywords: Chiropractic; Subluxation; Obstructive sleep apnoea.

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