Routine Neck Adjustment Leaves Mom of Three Facing Life-Threatening Injury

 

 

What began as a typical chiropractic visit turned into a harrowing medical ordeal for Carissa Klundt, a 41-year-old mother from Las Vegas. Seeking relief from post-surgical muscle tension, she had no idea that one neck adjustment would forever change her life.

In the fall of 2022, Klundt — once a vibrant fitness instructor — had been managing discomfort following surgery to remove breast implants. After years of unexplained symptoms, she had recently undergone an “explant” procedure to address what she believed was breast implant illness (BII).

“My body had tightened up after the surgery — especially in my chest and back,” she explained. “The pain led me to a chiropractor my friend recommended.”

But during a routine visit in November, her regular practitioner was unavailable. A substitute stepped in. And during a neck manipulation, something felt off.

A Sudden Shift

“You expect a cracking sound during adjustments,” Klundt said. “But this one felt different. There was pain immediately, and later that day I felt nauseous.”

Her symptoms didn’t improve. In the days and weeks that followed, she experienced visual disturbances, dizziness, and even moments of blacking out. Alarmed, her husband brought her to the hospital.

A CT scan revealed a vertebral artery dissection (VAD) — a rare but serious tear in an artery leading to the brain. Medical experts, including those at the Cleveland Clinic, explain that such injuries can restrict blood flow, raising the risk of stroke or other critical complications.

Doctors quickly admitted Klundt to the intensive care unit, warning that the condition could have led to a stroke had she not sought help in time.

“I was terrified. My family was terrified,” she recalled. “Everything happened so fast.”

A Long Road to Recovery

The recovery process was slow and painful. “For the first month, I could barely function,” she said. “I was sleeping up to 17 hours a day, needed assistance walking, and lived with constant discomfort.”

Although Klundt has made progress, she still battles residual symptoms and fears of recurrence. Activities she once loved — teaching classes, skiing, even amusement park rides — are no longer part of her life.

“My world shifted,” she shared. “There’s a fear that lingers, even as I heal.”

Why She’s Speaking Out

Today, Klundt hopes her story will help others become more informed about the possible risks linked to spinal manipulation. While chiropractic care can offer benefits for many, she believes it’s essential for patients to be educated about potential complications — no matter how rare.

“This isn’t about placing blame,” she clarified. “I just want people to know what can happen. I was active, healthy, and very in tune with my body — and yet, I had no idea this was even possible.”

As Klundt continues her recovery journey, she’s committed to raising awareness — especially for other active individuals who may not realize the early warning signs of vascular injury.