Chiropractor Accidentally Tears Woman’s Artery While Cracking Her Neck
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Chiropractor-neck-damage-060925-21-db9a15b0eab341369c510fe79b45c5a8.jpg)
Carissa Klundt, a Las Vegas mother of three, found herself in the ICU and bedridden for weeks after a routine visit to a chiropractor led to a severe injury. Klundt, who had been experiencing back pain following the removal of breast implants, sought chiropractic care for relief. However, during a November 2022 appointment with a substitute chiropractor, her life took a devastating turn when her neck was inadvertently cracked.
The aftermath of the adjustment was immediate for Klundt, who felt a sharp pain in her neck and nausea once she returned home. As weeks went by, her condition worsened, and she started experiencing vision issues and blackouts. Concerned for her well-being, Klundt’s husband insisted she seek medical attention. A CAT scan at the emergency room revealed that Klundt had suffered a vertebral artery dissection (VAD), a tear in the artery along her spine.

The tear in Klundt’s artery, caused by the chiropractic adjustment, posed life-threatening risks due to potential complications affecting blood flow. Klundt expressed her certainty that the injury was a direct result of the chiropractic session. Subsequently, she was rushed to the ICU of another hospital to prevent the possibility of a stroke. Reflecting on the traumatic experience, Klundt acknowledged that the incident not only affected her but also traumatized her entire family.

Prior to the injury, Klundt was an advocate for fitness and wellness, leading an active lifestyle. However, the VAD left her incapacitated, requiring extensive bed rest and assistance with daily activities. Nearly three years later, Klundt continues to grapple with the aftermath, facing limitations she never anticipated. Her once vibrant life has been forever altered, with activities like skiing and teaching fitness classes becoming distant memories.
The emotional and physical toll of the incident has prompted Klundt to share her story to raise awareness about the potential risks associated with chiropractic adjustments. She hopes that by speaking out, others may recognize the symptoms of VAD and the gravity of such injuries. Klundt emphasises the importance of understanding the warning signs of artery tears and advocating for one’s health and safety when seeking chiropractic care.
Klundt’s journey serves as a cautionary tale, reminding individuals of the unforeseen consequences that can arise from seemingly routine procedures. Her resilience and determination to rebuild her life post-injury highlight the strength required to navigate such challenges. Ultimately, Klundt’s experience sheds light on the significance of informed decision-making and prioritizing health and well-being above all else.
As Klundt continues her recovery process, her story stands as a reminder of the fragility of life and the resilience of the human spirit in overcoming adversity. Despite the setbacks she has faced, Klundt remains steadfast in her mission to spread awareness and support others in safeguarding their health. The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety and well-being in all aspects of healthcare.
