Woman claims stroke stems from spinal manipulation by chiropractor

GRETNA – A local chiropractor is being sued by a Jefferson Parish woman who claims her treatment under his care resulted in her having a stroke.

Luisa Cabrera, and husband Jamie, filed suit against Michael D. Haydel D.C., Medical Rehab Accident Injury Center and their insurers in the 24th Judicial District Court on June 13.

Cabrera claims that after she was in a car accident on July 30, 2012 she began seeing Haydel at Medical Rehab Accident Injury Center. The plaintiff claims that an MRI ordered by the defendant revealed bulging discs in her back, mild central stenosis and mild spinal cord deformity. Cabrera asserts that on Jan. 21 Haydel manipulated her spine and the next day she experienced severe headaches and other neurological symptoms that led her to visit an emergency room at a local hospital. Medical personnel in the emergency room reportedly found the plaintiff’s artery had been pinched and led to a stroke. Cabrera alleges that the stroke has resulted in severe permanent and irreversible injuries including neurological deficits and anatomical damage to her brain.

The defendant is accused of medical malpractice, failing to inform of the risk of injury to vertebral artery causing stroke and negligently manipulating the plaintiff’s cervical spine.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for pain and suffering, emotional distress, anxiety and medical expenses.

Cabrera is represented by attorney James C. Klick of New Orleans.

The case has been assigned to Division O Judge Ross P. LaDart.

Case no. 727-922.