Group Claims Chiropractry Gave Them Strokes

Published: 2009-04-22 14:09:01
Author: Tony Aiello, WCBS-TV New York, March 2, 2009

Two women have launched a billboard campaign, warning about risks associated with chiropractry. Both suffered from strokes, and believe their treatments led to their conditions.

"At 26, I was told I'd never walk or talk probably again. They inserted a feeding tube," said Britt Harwe. Today she has recovered remarkably but still cannot eat solid food.

Another stroke patient, Janet Levy, bears a scar on the back of her head. "It ended up that a clot went to my cerebellum, so I had to have emergency brain surgery," she explained.

They are among hundreds nationwide who claim chiropractors caused them to have a stroke.

Victims say when a chiropractor manipulates the cervical spine, it can tear the arteries inside, and that can cause a blood clot which may travel to the brain.

The condition could lead to a VBA stroke.

"Linda and I decided to do the billboards and advertising just to build awareness that this is a way that you can have a stroke," Harwe said.

The women formed a support group that posted these provocative billboards across the tri-state, generating controversy and concern and among chiropractors.

"I think it may be misleading," chiropractor Michael Minardo said.

A recent study found the risk of VBA stroke is the same whether you see a physician or a chiropractor for neck pain.

"When you look at a greater population of people, and what precipitated stroke, it can be going to the beauty parlor, leaning your head back in the sink to get your hair washed, looking up at fireworks," Minardo said.

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