SEVEN DIED AFTER TREATMENT
Brad Evenson - National Post
April 30, 2004 - page A2

Families of seven Canadians who died after chiropractic neck 
manipulation are 
calling on politicians across the country to ban the practice, which 
can 
cause fatal strokes, paralysis and crippling brain injuries. 
Increasingly, doctors 
and coroners blame the sharp twist of the spine's top two joints for 
harm to 
a delicate artery at the base of the brain. 
"In our cases, the result was death," said a statement released by 
the 
families. "In many hundreds of others, it is the lifelong effect of 
stroke." 
The families have sent 400 politicians across Canada a booklet and 
videotape 
with information from doctors and patients, including a plea from 
Diane 
Rodrigue, an Ontario woman who won a $1-million settlement when 
she was paralyzed 
after a chiropractic neck manipulation. 
The Canadian Chiropractic Association says such cases are not 
common. "There 
is a risk of complications associated with neck adjustment, 
however, the 
published research indicates that serious complications are very 
rare," said 
Grayden Bridge, president of the Canadian Chiropractic Association. 
"This must be balanced by the fact that neck adjustment provides 
benefits for 
patients with neck pain, headaches and whiplash." 
The families' campaign is the latest salvo in a running battle 
between 
chiropractors and the medical profession. Several years ago, more 
than 60 leading 
Canadian neurologists warned about the dangers of neck 
manipulation. Almost all 
of them have since received intimidating phone calls and e-mails.