Lasting changes in passive range motion after spinal manipulation: a randomized, blind, controlled trial.

PURPOSE

To study whether a 3-wk series of spinal manipulation has any lasting effect on passive cervical range of motion.

DESIGN

Randomized, controlled trial with a blind observer.

SETTING

Ambulatory outpatient facility in an independent National Health Service funded chiropractic research institution.

PARTICIPANTS

Thirty-nine headache sufferers who, on entering the study, displayed objectively decreased passive cervical range of motion. These subjects were recruited from 400 headache sufferers who responded to newspaper advertisements.

INTERVENTION

Half of the group received high-velocity, low-amplitude cervical manipulation twice a week for 3 wk. The other half received low-level laser in the upper cervical region and deep friction massage in the lower cervical/upper thoracic region, also twice a week for 3 wk.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Goniometrically assessed passive range of motion of the cervical spine.

RESULTS

Although passive cervical range of motion increased in both groups during the trial period, there were no statistically significant differences between the two groups 1 wk after the last treatment.

CONCLUSION

It seems that any changes in passive range of motion after spinal manipulation are of a temporary nature.