Following the video of a chiropractor "treating" sinus congestion with a balloon, this ENT doctors warns people against such practices.
Published Dec 21, 2023 | 9:00 AM ⚊ Updated Dec 21, 2023 | 9:00 AM
Nasocranial balloon release. (Rehab Guru)
In recent weeks, the internet has been abuzz with videos showcasing unconventional chiropractic techniques, claiming to cure various ailments.
After a video featuring a chiropractor “treating” gastric issues went viral, another one has surfaced — this time focusing on sinus clearance.
Head and Neck Oncologist and Reconstructive Surgeon Dr Achyuth Panuganti, from Dr Achyuth’s Head-Neck Cancers, ENT & Skull Base Clinic in Secunderabad, warned people of the consequences of falling trap to such “treatments”.
Speaking to South First, he expressed deep concern over such practices and said that the National Medical Commission (NMC) must ensure action against such people.
He said, “These chiropractic techniques for sinus clearance are not only scientifically unproven, but potentially dangerous. The sinuses are delicate structures and improper manipulation can lead to severe complications.”
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The allure of these videos lies in the promise of a “quick and easy solution” to problems that often require medical intervention.
Sinuses. (Wikimedia Commons)
Dr Panuganti pointed out that, in the video, the chiropractor claims to offer immediate relief from sinus congestion, a common issue that affects millions worldwide. However, Dr Panuganti warned that such treatments could cause more harm than good.
He emphasised that understanding and treating sinus pathology is a complex and delicate process.
“Treating sinusitis and other sinus-related issues require years of study and hours in the operating theatre under expert guidance to grasp the intricacies of sinus anatomy and pathology,” he explained.
Despite the skill and experience of renowned surgeons, the recurrent nature of sinus diseases remains a challenge, contradicting the misleading promises of instant cures by some chiropractors.
A particular concern is the technique — called the nasocranial balloon release — shown in this viral video, where a balloon is inserted into the nose to allegedly correct septal deviations.
“The septum, made of cartilage and bone, cannot be corrected by simply inflating a balloon in the nasal passage. In fact, septal corrections often require multiple surgeries and despite that, may not be fully resolved, demonstrating the complexity of the procedure,” Dr Panuganti clarified.
He added that, in the video, the “patient” can be seen claiming that his sinus has been cleared until the “vertex of the brain”. Calling the patient a junior artiste, Dr Panuganti said, “Such statements are not only scientifically baseless, but dangerously misleading. The sinuses do not extend into the brain. These claims are examples of malpractices that exploit patients for financial gain.”
“We should understand that septal correction cannot be done by just blowing a balloon into the nose. In fact, despite multiple surgeries, it still remains the same for some people. It is not that easy a job,” he said.
The use of unproven chiropractic techniques for sinus clearance poses significant risks. “It’s a blind procedure and any trauma during the process can lead to severe complications,” warned Dr Panuganti.
Complications can include CSF rhinorrhea, where brain fluids leak through the nose, and damage to the eye, leading to issues like double vision and impaired eye movement.
The responsibility of medical practitioners is to educate and protect society from such malpractices. “It’s not just about treating patients but also about raising awareness to prevent people from falling for these deceptive and dangerous tricks,” he asserted.
The risks associated with these chiropractic techniques include:
Sinus congestion or blockage can occur due to various reasons:
Symptoms of sinus congestion include:
