the Pelvic Distortion Subluxation Complex (PDSC). This entity affects many children and its effects are widespread. What you’ll fi nd is that 96 per cent of all children will have a fixation sublux- ation of the left pelvis and a correspond- ing hypermobility of the right. The re- maining four per cent will have a fixation of both sides, or a fi xation of the right – but these are rare.1 FURTHER THINGS TO CHECK OK . . .you have just pointed out, to mom, a problem with her child. Tread easy from now on, as you are creating a new aware- ness. As well, your little patient may feel a bit of anxiety, at this point, most of it the result of reading her mom. This is com- mon. Relax. Explain that you’ll give an- swers as your examination unfolds. Have your young patient sit on your exam bench and have a good look at her- head and her face. Check out the level of her eyes, eyebrows, cheek bones, ear lev- els, and forehead, etc. As well, look for asymmetry in her face in general – nose symmetry, lips, and chin. Also have a look at this patient’s head symmetry from above, looking down – make certain that mom sees what you see. You are look- ing for possible effects of traumatic birth syndrome (TBS). Check the function of both tempero- mandibular joints (TMJ) and compare one side to the other – have the little girl open and close her mouth and look for symme- try of function. Palpate both and determine if one side or the other is either hypo- or hypermobile – the hypermobile side will be tender to touch, the hypomobile side will palpate as spastic. Measure each of her head hemispheres with a tape measure – starting from the ex- ternal occipital protuberance to the nasi- um. Both measurements should be equal. Findings, during this part of the exam, are important, as asymmetry in any of these areas may point to TBS. Be able to show mom what you are fi nding and explain briefl y your suspicions. It is important that you make total sense to mom, and that all you are saying is logical to her. Let me assure you – you have mom’s complete attention at this point. GETTING MOM INVOLVED The cute seven-year-old is now sitting on your exam table as you stand behind her and palpate the function of her cervical www.canadianchiropractor.ca CANADIAN CHIROPRACTOR | JULY/AUGUST 2009 • 33 New Products Job Board Blog www.canadianchiropractor.ca Daily News E-News Current Issue Web Exclusives Classifieds Education Clinical Profiles Wellness Practice Management
Chiropractic + Naturopathic Doctor July/August 2009: Page 33
