Case Study: Treating Neck and Back Pain with Torque Release Technique

I. Introduction

Neck and back pain are among the most common musculoskeletal issues, affecting people of all ages and occupations. These conditions can cause significant discomfort, reduced mobility, and an overall decline in quality of life. Many individuals seek relief through physical therapy, medication, or invasive procedures, but chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, long-term solution.

This case study highlights the journey of a patient at Advantage Health Center in Eau Claire, WI, who suffered from chronic neck and back pain. Through targeted chiropractic care using the Torque Release Technique (TRT) and spinal decompression therapy with the Back on Trac machine, the patient experienced significant relief and improved daily function.

II. Patient Background

Patient: Sarah M., a 35-year-old female
Occupation: Office manager
Chief Complaint: Chronic neck and upper back pain with occasional headaches
Duration of Symptoms: Over eight months
Pain Severity (Scale 1-10): 6/10 daily, spiking to 8/10 during stressful periods or prolonged sitting

Sarah had been experiencing persistent neck stiffness and upper back pain, exacerbated by long hours at a desk. She also reported tension headaches several times a week, making it difficult to concentrate at work. Initially, she attributed her discomfort to poor posture, but despite trying various self-care measures, the pain persisted and gradually worsened.

Previous Treatments Attempted

Before seeking chiropractic care, Sarah tried several treatment options:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers (Ibuprofen, Naproxen): Provided temporary relief but did not address the underlying issue.

• Massage therapy: Helped reduce muscle tension but had no lasting impact on pain levels.

• Postural adjustments and ergonomic corrections: Some improvement but symptoms persisted.

• Heat and ice therapy: Short-term relief but no significant reduction in pain.

Concerned about the long-term effects of her condition, Sarah decided to seek chiropractic care at Advantage Health Center after a recommendation from a colleague who had positive results with TRT adjustments.

III. Examination & Diagnosis

Upon arriving at Advantage Health Center, Sarah underwent a comprehensive evaluation by Dr. Zach Bruley, a board-certified chiropractor specializing in Torque Release Technique (TRT).

Initial Consultation & Assessment

• X-ray Imaging: Taken to assess spinal alignment, rule out degenerative changes, and identify areas of subluxation. X-rays revealed misalignment in the cervical (C3-C5) and thoracic spine (T4-T6), contributing to her chronic pain.

• Postural Analysis: Forward head posture and rounded shoulders, consistent with long hours of desk work.

• Range of Motion Tests: Restricted cervical rotation and lateral bending, indicating muscle tightness and joint dysfunction.

• Neurological Examination:

  • Mild numbness and tingling in the right hand, suggesting nerve irritation.

  • Slightly diminished deep tendon reflexes in the upper extremities.

• Palpation & Spinal Analysis:

  • Increased muscle tightness along the cervical and upper thoracic spine.

  • Subluxations detected at C3-C5 and T4-T6, affecting nerve function.

Diagnosis

Sarah was diagnosed with cervical and thoracic subluxations, forward head posture, and chronic muscle tension. Her symptoms were linked to spinal misalignment and nerve irritation, contributing to her headaches and persistent discomfort.

IV. Treatment Plan

Given Sarah’s condition, Dr. Bruley recommended a structured chiropractic treatment plan utilizing Torque Release Technique (TRT) and spinal decompression therapy with the Back on Trac machine. TRT was chosen due to its precision and ability to improve neurological function without excessive force, while Back on Trac provided gentle spinal decompression to alleviate tension and improve mobility.

Customized Treatment Approach

1. Torque Release Technique (TRT) Adjustments (3x per week for the first four weeks)

   • TRT involves a specialized instrument called the Integrator, which delivers gentle, precise adjustments to correct spinal misalignments.

   • Focused adjustments were made at C3, C4, C5, T4, and T6 to restore spinal balance and nerve function.

2. Spinal Decompression Therapy (3x per week for the first four weeks)

   • Sessions with the Back on Trac machine provided gentle, motorized decompression to relieve pressure on spinal discs and nerves.

   • Treatment helped improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote healing in the cervical and thoracic spine.

3. Postural Correction Exercises

   • Specific neck and upper back stretches to improve flexibility.

   • Strengthening exercises targeting postural muscles to support spinal alignment.

4. Ergonomic and Lifestyle Recommendations

   • Adjustments to workstation setup to reduce strain on the cervical spine.

   • Encouraged regular movement breaks to prevent prolonged static posture.

   • Provided guidance on proper pillow support for improved sleep posture.

V. Patient Progress & Results

Sarah’s progress was tracked over an 8-week treatment period, with regular check-ins to assess improvements in pain levels and mobility.

Week 2

• Pain levels reduced from 6/10 to 4/10.

• Fewer tension headaches (down from 3-4 per week to once per week).

• Improved cervical mobility, making it easier to turn her head while driving.

Week 4

• Noticeable improvement in neck posture and reduced muscle tension.

• Headaches now occasional rather than frequent.

• Able to sit at work for longer periods without significant discomfort.

Week 8

• Pain levels down to 1/10, with occasional mild stiffness.

• No longer experiencing numbness or tingling in the right hand.

• No reliance on pain relievers.

• Able to maintain good posture effortlessly throughout the day.

By the end of her treatment plan, Sarah reported feeling 95% better than when she first arrived. Dr. Bruley recommended monthly maintenance adjustments and occasional Back on Trac sessions to sustain her progress and prevent recurrence.

VI. Patient Testimonial

“I had been dealing with neck and upper back pain for months, and nothing seemed to provide lasting relief. I was also getting frequent headaches that made work and daily life frustrating. Dr. Bruley and his team at Advantage Health Center completely turned things around for me. The TRT adjustments and Back on Trac decompression were gentle but incredibly effective. After a few weeks, I felt a dramatic improvement, and now I can focus, work, and live without constant discomfort. I highly recommend them!”
— Sarah M., Eau Claire, WI

VII. Conclusion

This case study demonstrates the effectiveness of Torque Release Technique (TRT) and spinal decompression therapy in treating chronic neck and back pain. Unlike traditional manual adjustments, TRT provides precise, gentle corrections that optimize nervous system function, while Back on Trac enhances spinal health by alleviating pressure and improving mobility.

For individuals struggling with chronic pain and postural issues, chiropractic care at Advantage Health Center in Eau Claire, WI, offers a non-invasive, drug-free solution. If you or someone you know is suffering from neck or back pain, contact Advantage Health Center today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward recovery.