Abstract
Introduction: Cervical disc herniation (CDH) can produce severe radiculopathy and functional impairment, and management becomes more complex when neurological comorbidities such as multiple sclerosis (MS) are present. This case study reports on a 35-year-old female with CDH at C5–C6 with a concurrent demyelinating MS lesion at the same level, who presented with debilitating cervical pain, marked left upper-extremity weakness (3/5 strength), sensory loss, absent reflexes, and significant activity limitations.
Methods: Non-surgical spinal decompression using the DRX9000C was selected to avoid elevated surgical risk and potential MS exacerbation. The patient completed 20 decompression sessions over 15 weeks, using robotically controlled intermittent traction targeted at C5–C6.
Results: By the fifth treatment, she reported full resolution of pain and complete return to activities of daily living. Post-treatment examination demonstrated restored strength (5/5), normalized sensation, and symmetrical reflexes, with the Neck Disability Index improving from 36/50 to 1/50. MRI revealed reductions in lesion size (AP length decreased 1.67 mm; SI length decreased 1.27 mm), increased spinal canal diameter (+3.15 mm), and increased left foraminal space (+0.81 mm). At 1-year follow-up, neurological function remained normal, Neck Disability Index measured 0/50, and imaging showed sustained or continued improvements without recurrence of symptoms or worsening of MS.
Conclusion: This case highlights the longitudinal effects, as well as the potential benefits and safety, of targeted cervical non-surgical spinal decompression using the DRX9000C for CDH in the presence of MS. Findings support its role as a viable non-surgical intervention for CDH.
Keywords
Cervical disc lesion, Traction, Non-surgical spinal decompression, Neck pain, Cervical intervertebral disc, Conservative therapy, Case study