Comparing Spinal Manipulative Therapy and Graston Technique for Thoracic Pain
Author Information
Author(s): Amy Crothers, Bruce Walker, Simon D French
Primary Institution: Murdoch University
Hypothesis
The trial aims to determine the efficacy of spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) and Graston Technique (GT) compared to a placebo for treating non-specific thoracic spine pain.
Conclusion
The study aims to provide further evidence for the treatment of non-specific thoracic pain by comparing SMT and GT to a placebo.
Supporting Evidence
- The one year prevalence of thoracic back pain is estimated at 17%.
- Only one previous trial has assessed the efficacy of SMT for thoracic spine pain.
- Graston Technique is a popular massage technique but lacks high-quality evidence.
Takeaway
This study is trying to find out if two types of treatments for back pain work better than doing nothing at all.
Methodology
Eighty-four participants with non-specific thoracic pain will be randomized into three groups: SMT, GT, or a placebo, receiving up to 10 treatments over 4 weeks.
Limitations
The study acknowledges the need for high-quality trials and the limitations of previous studies in this area.
Participant Demographics
Participants will be at least 18 years old with non-specific thoracic spine pain.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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