If you’re an NFL football fan, you’ve probably heard that “The Sheriff” Peyton Manning is having a really difficult time bouncing back from neck surgery. His progress has seemingly stagnated, and both he and the Colts organization are wringing their hands. “As of now Peyton continues to deal with a complicated neurological recovery, the end date of which is unpredictable,” the team said in the statement.
ESPN analyst, Adam Schefter, says that Manning isn’t healing nearly as quickly as everyone expected him to, and that he’s seeing very little progress.
As an Upper Cervical chiropractor, I’ve cared for a variety of patients who’ve had similar surgeries as Peyton. Years after the procedure they continue to experience pain, soreness, or limited range of motion. This may be tolerable to someone who works behind a desk all day, but it’s a very serious problem for an NFL quarterback.
To make matters worse, Manning has Forward Head Posture. This affects the biomechanical movement of his neck, putting unnecessary strain on the joints of the spine, and can certainly slow or inhibit the healing process.
I am not privy to the treatments he has received relating to this issue, but I would urge everyone in a similar situation to consult with an Upper Cervical chiropractor prior to going under the knife. While surgery undoubtedly saves lives, it isn’t necessarily going to solve every patient’s problem. In fact, sometimes it can makes matters worse! Peyton is now experiencing back pain, which only further delays his iffy recovery.
Second, third, and fourth opinions can make or break your success. Don’t be afraid to tell a surgeon, “No thank you.”
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UPDATE: As of 9/08/11, Manning elected to receive yet another surgery. This time fusing two spinal bones together.
A Chiropractor's Opinion 
One Comment
If only Peyton Manning knew what Jerry Rice knew: get your head on straight.