Effects of Spinal Manipulation on Muscle Responses in Low Back Pain Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Clark Brian C, Goss David A Jr, Walkowski Stevan, Hoffman Richard L, Ross Andrew, Thomas James S
Primary Institution: Ohio University
Hypothesis
Does spinal manipulation alter the amplitude of motor evoked potentials or stretch reflexes in patients with chronic low back pain?
Conclusion
Spinal manipulation does not significantly change muscle excitability in chronic low back pain patients, but it may reduce stretch reflex sensitivity when an audible response occurs.
Supporting Evidence
- A single spinal manipulation did not alter motor evoked potential amplitude in either group.
- Stretch reflex amplitude was reduced when spinal manipulation caused an audible response.
- Participants with chronic low back pain rated their usual pain as 4.0 on a scale of 0-10.
Takeaway
The study looked at how spinal manipulation affects muscles in people with back pain. It found that while it doesn't change muscle activity much, it can make reflexes less sensitive if you hear a pop during the treatment.
Methodology
The study used transcranial magnetic stimulation and electromechanical tapping to measure muscle responses before and after spinal manipulation in patients with chronic low back pain and healthy controls.
Potential Biases
Potential for placebo effects influencing results.
Limitations
The study only assessed the effects of a single spinal manipulation and did not explore long-term effects or effects in different populations.
Participant Demographics
10 patients with chronic low back pain (5 men, 5 women) and 10 asymptomatic controls matched for age and sex.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website