Lumbar lordosis rehabilitation for pain and lumbar segmental motion in chronic mechanical low back pain: a randomized trial

Effects of physical interventions on pain and disability in chronic low back pain with pronated feet: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

A link between pronated feet (PF) and chronic low back pain (CLBP) has been reported in the literature. However, physical interventions (PI) like physiotherapy and orthotics mainly target the lower back, neglecting the broader biomechanical impacts of PF that affect the feet, ankles, and overall posture. Currently, there is a lack of comprehensive meta-analyses or systematic reviews on this subject.

OBJECTIVES

This systematic review with a meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of PI on pain and disability in patients having CLBP with PF.

METHODS

From inception until October 15, 2023, Medline/PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched using the desired keywords for randomized control trials (RCTs). The quality of the RCTs was evaluated using the PEDro scale and risk of bias tool.

RESULTS

Four studies involving 268 patients were identified, two compared custom-made foot orthoses to non-biomechanical foot insoles, while the other two used exercises. The meta-analysis included four studies for pain and three for disability. The results showed a significant change in pain [-2.43 (95% CI -2.73 to -2.13, p < .001)] and disability of -6.69 (95% CI -8.04 to -5.33, p < .001)].

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review and meta-analysis of four RCTs elucidates that PI, specifically targeting PF, significantly alleviate pain and reduce disability in patients having CLBP with PF. These findings advocate for integrating foot-based PI within the treatment protocols for patients suffering from CLBP accompanied by PF.

Effect of adding abdominal bracing to spinal stabilization exercise on lumbar lordosis angle, extensor strength, pain, and function in patients with non-specific chronic low back pain: A prospective randomized pilot study

TRIAL DESIGN

This study investigated the effect of adding abdominal bracing to spinal stability exercise in patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP). This prospective, randomized pilot study included 67 patients and was conducted at the sports medicine center of a single hospital.

METHODS

The abdominal bracing group (ABBG) underwent spinal stability exercise with abdominal bracing (N = 33), comprising 50 minutes training twice a week for 24 weeks. The control group performed only spinal stability exercise (N = 34) for 50 minutes twice a week for 24 weeks. The ABBG received abdominal bracing training at each session and applied abdominal bracing during the spinal stability exercise. The lumbar lordosis angle (LLA) and spine extensor muscle strength were measured. Spinal flexion angles were measured every 12° from 0° to 72°. The visual analog scale score and Oswestry disability index were measured before treatment and at 12 and 24 weeks after treatment.

RESULTS

The LLA increased over time in both the groups but was not significantly different between the groups. Spine extensor strength was improved over time in both the groups, and an interactive effect was observed at a spinal flexion angle of 60° and 72°. Pain and function were also improved over time in both the groups, but the effect was stronger in the ABBG than in the control group. In patients with CLBP, spinal stability exercise changed the LLA.

CONCLUSIONS

Although adding abdominal bracing to spinal stability exercise did not affect the changes in the LLA, abdominal bracing improved the spinal extensor strength, pain, and function in patients with CLBP. Therefore, it is recommended to add abdominal bracing to spinal stability exercise to maintain the lordosis angle and to improve CLBP symptoms.

Examining Clinical Opinion and Experience Regarding Utilization of Plain Radiography of the Spine: Evidence from Surveying the Chiropractic Profession

Plain Radiography of the spine (PROTS) is utilized in many forms of healthcare including the chiropractic profession; however, the literature reflects conflicting opinions regarding utilization and value. Despite being an essential part of Evidence-Based Practice (EBP), few studies assess Doctors of Chiropractic (DCs) clinical opinions and experience regarding the utilization of (PROTS) in practice. In this study, DCs were surveyed regarding utilization of PROTS in practice. The survey was administered to an estimated 50,000 licensed DCs by email. A total of 4301 surveys were completed, of which 3641 were United States (US) DCs. The Clinician Opinion and Experience on Chiropractic Radiography (COECR) scale was designed to analyze survey responses. This valid and reliable scale demonstrated good internal consistency using confirmatory factor analysis and the Rasch model. Survey responses show that 73.3% of respondents utilize PROTS in practice and 26.7% refer patients out for PROTS. Survey responses show that, among US DCs, 91.9% indicate PROTS has value beyond identification of pathology, 86.7% indicate that PROTS is important regarding biomechanical analysis of the spine, 82.9% indicate that PROTS is vital to practice, 67.4% indicate that PROTS aids in measuring outcomes, 98.6% indicate the opinion that PROTS presents very low to no risk to patients, and 93.0% indicate that sharing clinical findings from PROTS studies with patients is beneficial to clinical outcomes. The results of the study indicated that based on clinical experience, the majority of DCs find PROTS to be vital to practice and valuable beyond the identification of red flags.

Home Exercise Programs Are Infrequently Prescribed in Trials of Supervised Exercise for Individuals With Low Back Pain: A Scoping Review of 292 Randomized Controlled Trials

OBJECTIVES: To (1) determine how often home exercise programs (HEPs) are prescribed in supervised exercise trials for low back pain (LBP) and (2) describe characteristics of the HEP programs (design, purpose, dose, and adherence). DESIGN: Scoping review. LITERATURE SEARCH: PubMed, CINAHL, and Ovid MEDLINE were searched from January 1, 2010, to August 17, 2021. STUDY SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomized controlled trials that included adults with LBP who received exercise interventions. DATA SYNTHESIS: The presence or absence of a prescribed HEP and any details of the HEP including design, dose, and adherence were extracted and summarized. RESULTS: Of 2689 potentially relevant trials, 292 were eligible for inclusion. Ninety-four trials (32%) included a HEP. The most commonly prescribed home exercises were core stability, trunk strengthening, and motor control exercises. There was great variation in the frequency and duration with which HEPs were prescribed. Adherence to HEPs was measured in fewer than half of the trials, and the methods for measuring adherence were inconsistent. Adherence to HEPs ranged from 29% to 82% in the 21 trials that reported adherence. CONCLUSION: Home exercise programs are not regularly prescribed in supervised exercise trials for LBP. There was considerable variation in prescribing HEPs and monitoring exercise adherence in trials of exercise-based treatments for adults with LBP. There is no consistent method used to measure participants' adherence to HEPs, and adherence percentages vary widely. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2023;53(3):120-142. Epub: 16 January 2023. doi:10.2519/jospt.2023.11448.

An Updated Overview of Low Back Pain Management

We aimed to determine the recommendation level for the treatment of acute and chronic low back pain (LBP). A systematic review (SR) of the literature was performed and all English-language articles that discuss acute and chronic LBP, including MEDLINE and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, were searched. Of the 873 searched literature reports, 259 articles, including 131 clinical trials, 115 SRs, nine meta-analyses, and four clinical guidelines were analyzed. In these articles, high-quality randomized controlled trials, SRs, and used well-written clinical guidelines were reviewed. The results indicated multiple acute and chronic LBP treatment methods in the literature, and these reports when reviewed included general behavior, pharmacological therapy, psychological therapy, specific exercise, active rehabilitation and educational interventions, manual therapy, physical modalities, and invasive procedures. The Trial conclusions and SRs were classified into four categories of A, B, C, and D. If there were not enough high-quality articles, it was designated as "I" (insufficient). This review and summary of guidelines may be beneficial for physicians to better understand and make recommendations in primary care.

Efficacy of Therapeutic Aquatic Exercise vs Physical Therapy Modalities for Patients With Chronic Low Back Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial

IMPORTANCE

Therapeutic aquatic exercise is frequently offered to patients with chronic low back pain, but its long-term benefits are unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the long-term effects of therapeutic aquatic exercise on people with chronic low back pain.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This 3-month, single-blind randomized clinical trial with a 12-month follow-up period was performed from September 10, 2018, to March 12, 2019, and the trial follow-up was completed March 17, 2020. A total of 113 people with chronic low back pain were included in the experiment.

INTERVENTIONS

Participants were randomized to either the therapeutic aquatic exercise or the physical therapy modalities group. The therapeutic aquatic exercise group received aquatic exercise, whereas the physical therapy modalities group received transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and infrared ray thermal therapy. Both interventions were performed for 60 minutes twice a week for 3 months.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary outcome was disability level, which was measured using the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire; scores range from 0 to 24, with higher scores indicating more severe disability. Secondary outcomes included pain intensity, quality of life, sleep quality, recommendation of intervention, and minimal clinically important difference. Intention-to-treat and per-protocol analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Of the 113 participants, 59 were women (52.2%) (mean [SD] age, 31.0 [11.5] years). Participants were randomly allocated into the therapeutic aquatic exercise group (n = 56) or the physical therapy modalities group (n = 57), and 98 patients (86.7%) completed the 12-month follow-up. Compared with the physical therapy modalities group, the therapeutic aquatic exercise group showed greater alleviation of disability, with adjusted mean group differences of -1.77 (95% CI, -3.02 to -0.51; P = .006) after the 3-month intervention, -2.42 (95% CI, -4.13 to -0.70; P = .006) at the 6-month follow-up, and -3.61 (95% CI, -5.63 to -1.58; P = .001) at the 12-month follow-up (P < .001 for overall group × time interaction). At the 12-month follow-up point, improvements were significantly greater in the therapeutic aquatic exercise group vs the physical therapy modalities group in the number of participants who met the minimal clinically important difference in pain (at least a 2-point improvement on the numeric rating scale) (most severe pain, 30 [53.57%] vs 12 [21.05%]; average pain, 14 [25%] vs 11 [19.30%]; and current pain, 22 [39.29%] vs 10 [17.54%]) and disability (at least a 5-point improvement on the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire) (26 [46.43%] vs 4 [7.02%]). One of the 56 participants (1.8%) in the therapeutic aquatic exercise group vs 2 of the 57 participants (3.5%) in the physical therapy modalities group experienced low back pain and other pains related to the intervention.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

The therapeutic aquatic exercise program led to greater alleviation in patients with chronic low back pain than physical therapy modalities and had a long-term effect up to 12 months. This finding may prompt clinicians to recommend therapeutic aquatic exercise to patients with chronic low back pain as part of treatment to improve their health through active exercise rather than relying on passive relaxation.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR1800016396.

Radiophobia Overreaction: College of Chiropractors of British Columbia Revoke Full X-Ray Rights Based on Flawed Study and Radiation Fear-Mongering

Fears over radiation have created irrational pressures to dissuade radiography use within chiropractic. Recently, the regulatory body for chiropractors practicing in British Columbia, Canada, the College of Chiropractors of British Columbia (CCBC), contracted Pierre Côté to review the clinical use of X-rays within the chiropractic profession. A "rapid review" was performed and published quickly and included only 9 papers, the most recent dating from 2005; they concluded, "Given the inherent risks of radiation, we recommend that chiropractors do not use radiographs for the routine and repeat evaluation of the structure and function of the spine." The CCBC then launched an immediate review of the use of X-rays by chiropractors in their jurisdiction. Member and public opinion were gathered but not presented to their members. On February 4, 2021, the College announced amendments to their Professional Conduct Handbook that revoked X-ray rights for routine/repeat assessment and management of patients with spine disorders. Here, we highlight current and historical evidence that substantiates that X-rays are not a public health threat. We also point out critical and insurmountable flaws in the single paper used to support irrational and unscientific policy that discriminates against chiropractors who practice certain forms of evidence-based X-ray-guided methods.

Radiophobic Fear-Mongering, Misappropriation of Medical References and Dismissing Relevant Data Forms the False Stance for Advocating Against the Use of Routine and Repeat Radiography in Chiropractic and Manual Therapy

There is a faction within the chiropractic profession passionately advocating against the routine use of X-rays in the diagnosis, treatment and management of patients with spinal disorders (aka subluxation). These activists reiterate common false statements such as "there is no evidence" for biomechanical spine assessment by X-ray, "there are no guidelines" supporting routine imaging, and also promulgate the reiterating narrative that "X-rays are dangerous." These arguments come in the form of recycled allopathic "red flag only" medical guidelines for spine care, opinion pieces and consensus statements. Herein, we review these common arguments and present compelling data refuting such claims. It quickly becomes evident that these statements are false. They are based on cherry-picked medical references and, most importantly, expansive evidence against this narrative continues to be ignored. Factually, there is considerable evidential support for routine use of radiological imaging in chiropractic and manual therapies for 3 main purposes: 1. To assess spinopelvic biomechanical parameters; 2. To screen for relative and absolute contraindications; 3. To reassess a patient's progress from some forms of spine altering treatments. Finally, and most importantly, we summarize why the long-held notion of carcinogenicity from X-rays is not a valid argument.

Restoring lumbar lordosis: a systematic review of controlled trials utilizing Chiropractic Bio Physics® (CBP®) non-surgical approach to increasing lumbar lordosis in the treatment of low back disorders

[Purpose] To systematically review controlled trial evidence for the use of lumbar extension traction by Chiropractic BioPhysics^® methods for the purpose of increasing lumbar lordosis in those with hypolordosis and low back disorders. [Methods] Literature searches were performed in Pubmed, PEDro, CINAHL, Cochrane, and ICL databases. Search terms included iterations related to the lumbar spine, low back pain and extension traction rehabilitation. [Results] Four articles detailing 2 randomized and 1 non-randomized trial were located. Trials demonstrated increases in radiographic measured lordosis of 7–11°, over 10–12 weeks, after 30–36 treatment sessions. Randomized trials demonstrated traction treated groups mostly maintained lordosis correction, pain relief, and disability after 6-months follow-up. The non-randomized trial showed lordosis and pain intensity were maintained with periodic maintenance care for 1.5 years. Importantly, control/comparison groups had no increase in lumbar lordosis. Randomized trials showed comparison groups receiving physiotherapy-less the traction, had temporary pain reduction during treatment that regressed towards baseline levels as early as 3-months after treatment. [Conclusion] Limited but good quality evidence substantiates that the use of extension traction methods in rehabilitation programs definitively increases lumbar hypolordosis. Preliminarily, these studies indicate these methods provide longer-term relief to patients with low back disorders versus conventional rehabilitation approaches tested.

Are Restrictive Medical Radiation Imaging Campaigns Misguided? It Seems So: A Case Example of the American Chiropractic Association's Adoption of "Choosing Wisely"

Since the 1980s, increased utilization of medical radiology, primarily computed tomography, has doubled medically sourced radiation exposures. Ensuing fear-mongering media headlines of iatrogenic cancers from these essential medical diagnostic tools has led the public and medical professionals alike to display escalating radiophobia. Problematically, several campaigns including Image Gently, Image Wisely, and facets of Choosing Wisely propagate fears of all medical radiation, which is necessary for the delivery of effective and efficient health care. Since there are no sound data supporting the alleged risks from low-dose radiation and since there is abundant evidence of health benefits from low-doses, these imaging campaigns seem misguided. Further, thresholds for cancer are 100 to 1000-fold greater than X-rays, which are within the realm of natural background radiation where no harm has ever been validated. Here, we focus on radiographic imaging for use in spinal rehabilitation by manual therapists, chiropractors, and physiotherapists as spinal X-rays represent the lowest levels of radiation imaging and are critical in the diagnosis and management of spine-related disorders. Using a case example of a chiropractic association adopting "Choosing Wisely," we argue that these campaigns only fuel the pervasive radiophobia and continue to constrain medical professionals, attempting to deliver quality care to patients.

Effectiveness of Manual and Electrical Acupuncture for Chronic Non-specific Low Back Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Low back pain is a common condition that can be effectively treated by acupuncture. However, several treatment point prescriptions and further electrical needle stimulation (i.e., local acupoints, distal acupoints, and sensitized acupoints) may be used. There is an implicit yet unexplored assumption about the evidence on manual and electrical stimulation techniques.

OBJECTIVE

The present study aims to identify effectiveness of electroacupuncture (EA) and manual acupuncture (MA) on pain and disability in patients with chronic nonspecific low back.

METHODS

This study is a randomized controlled clinical trial. Sixty-six patients between 20 and 60 years of age with non-specific chronic low back pain experiencing low back pain lasting for at least the previous three months and ≥3 points on a 10 numerical analogic scale. Patients diagnosed with chronic LBP were assigned to receive either 12 sessions of MA or EA. The primary outcomes measurements were pain intensity on Numeric Rating Scale and disability by Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire.

RESULTS

The participants reported improvements post-treatment to pain intensity and disability respectively; however, no differences between groups were observed. Regarding the secondary outcomes, we observed a between-group difference only for kinesiophobia in favor of the manual acupuncture group (difference = -4.1 points, 95% CI = -7.0 to -1.1). The results were maintained after 3 months of follow-up.

CONCLUSION

The study provides evidence that EA is not superior to MA treatment. Both therapies had similar efficacy in reducing pain and disability for chronic nonspecific low back pain.

Non-surgical reduction of lumbar hyperlordosis, forward sagittal balance and sacral tilt to relieve low back pain by Chiropractic BioPhysics® methods: a case report

[Purpose] To present the reduction of both lumbar spine hyperlordosis and anterior sagittal balance in a symptomatic patient as treated by Chiropractic BioPhysics® technique. [Participant and Methods] A 46 year old reported with low back and hip pains for six years. Oswestry disability index scored 28%. Radiographic assessment revealed pronounced anterior sagittal balance with lumbar hyperlordosis. The patient was treated by Chiropractic BioPhysics technique to reverse the spinal deformity subluxation via mirror image corrective exercises and spinal traction, as well as spinal manipulative therapy. [Results] Assessments after 36 and 74 treatments corresponding to the 4-month and 13-month check-ups demonstrated a continuous structural improvement in lumbar spine biomechanical parameters. There was a near complete resolution in low back and hip pains with an Oswestry score of 4%. [Conclusion] This case documents the reduction of lumbar spine hyperlordosis and forward sagittal balance by contemporary spine rehabilitation methods. It is essential to screen spinal subluxation patterns via standing radiography which obviously, as demonstrated in this case determines treatment approach as most low back pain patients present with lumbar hypolordosis. Routine initial and repeat radiography is safe in the screening and monitoring of treatment efficacy and is the standard for evidence-based, patient-centred structural rehabilitation.

Reduction of thoraco-lumbar junctional kyphosis, posterior sagittal balance, and increase of lumbar lordosis and sacral inclination by Chiropractic BioPhysics® methods in an adolescent with back pain: a case report

[Purpose] To present the structural improvement of an excessive junctional thoracolumbar kyphosis and related biomechanical parameters in an adolescent. [Participant and Methods] A 16 year old female presented with chronic back pains. Radiographic assessment revealed excessive posterior sagittal balance and thoracolumbar kyphosis and reduced lumbar lordosis and sacral inclination. Chiropractic BioPhysics® technique including mirror image®, anterior thoracic translation and thoracolumbar hyperextension traction was performed as well as spinal manipulation and postural exercises over an 8-week period. [Results] After 24 in-office treatments and a daily home program the patient reported a minimization of back pains and a better mood. Follow-up X-rays demonstrated a 48 mm reduction of posterior sagittal balance, a 22° reduction of thoracolumbar kyphosis, an 11° increase in lumbar lordosis, and a 10° increase in sacral inclination. [Conclusion] This is the first case documenting the non-surgical reduction of excessive thoracolumbar junctional kyphosis and related biomechanical parameters in an adolescent. Precise analysis of radiologic assessment for adolescents presenting with back pains is advised and are safe for the screening of postural disorders. There is a growing evidence base for the Chiropractic BioPhysics® technique approach in the correction of lumbar spine disorders; more research is encouraged to further evaluate this unique treatment.

Repeat Radiography in Monitoring Structural Changes in the Treatment of Spinal Disorders in Chiropractic and Manual Medicine Practice: Evidence and Safety

There is substantial evidence for normal relationships between spine and postural parameters, as measured from radiographs of standing patients. Sagittal balance, cervical lordosis, thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis, pelvic tilt, and the more complex understanding of the interrelations between these essential components of normal stance have evolved to where there are known, established thresholds for normalcy. These spinal parameters are reliably measured from X-ray images and serve as goals of care in the treatment of spine and postural disorders. Initial and follow-up spinal imaging by X-ray is thus crucial for the practice of contemporary and evidence-based structural rehabilitation. Recent studies have demonstrated that improvement in the spine and posture by nonsurgical methods offers superior long-term patient outcomes versus conventional methods that only temporarily treat pain/dysfunction. Low-dose radiation from repeated X-ray imaging in treating subluxated patients is substantially below the known threshold for harm and is within background radiation exposures. Since alternative imaging methods are not clinically practical at this time, plain radiography remains the standard for spinal imaging. It is safe when used in a repeated fashion for quantifying pre-post spine and postural subluxation and deformity patterns in the practice of structural correction methods by chiropractic and other manual medicine practices.

Improving posture to reduce the symptoms of Parkinson's: a CBP® case report with a 21 month follow-up

[Purpose] To demonstrate the reduction of symptoms related to Parkinson’s disease by improvement in posture. [Participant and Methods] A 59-year-old male patient presented with a prior diagnosis of Parkinson’s. Symptoms included a resting right hand tremor, intermittent ‘freezing episodes’ with gait, mild ataxia with shuffling on toes and bradykinesia assisted with a cane, as well as low back pain and right knee pain. Radiography revealed gross postural and spine deformity. The patient received Chiropractic BioPhysics care including mirror image exercises, spinal traction, spinal adjustments as well as gait rehabilitation. [Results] After 38 treatments over 5 months, the patient had significant improvements in posture alignment as well as gait, balance, hand tremors, low back and knee pains and SF-36 values. A 21 month follow-up revealed the patient had remained essentially well and the initial postural improvements were maintained. [Conclusion] This case demonstrates improvement of various symptoms in a patient with Parkinson’s disease. Since poor posture is a long known clinical manifestation of this disorder, it is proposed that the improvement of posture in these patients may lead to improved outcomes. X-ray use in the diagnosis and management in those with spine deformity is safe and not carcinogenic.

Current evidence for spinal X-ray use in the chiropractic profession: a narrative review

The use of routine spinal X-rays within chiropractic has a contentious history. Elements of the profession advocate for the need for routine spinal X-rays to improve patient management, whereas other chiropractors advocate using spinal X-rays only when endorsed by current imaging guidelines. This review aims to summarise the current evidence for the use of spinal X-ray in chiropractic practice, with consideration of the related risks and benefits. Current evidence supports the use of spinal X-rays only in the diagnosis of trauma and spondyloarthropathy, and in the assessment of progressive spinal structural deformities such as adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. MRI is indicated to diagnose serious pathology such as cancer or infection, and to assess the need for surgical management in radiculopathy and spinal stenosis. Strong evidence demonstrates risks of imaging such as excessive radiation exposure, overdiagnosis, subsequent low-value investigation and treatment procedures, and increased costs. In most cases the potential benefits from routine imaging, including spinal X-rays, do not outweigh the potential harms. The use of spinal X-rays should not be routinely performed in chiropractic practice, and should be guided by clinical guidelines and clinician judgement.

Increasing the cervical and lumbar lordosis is possible despite overt osteoarthritis and spinal stenosis using extension traction to relieve low back and leg pain in a 66-year-old surgical candidate: a CBP® case report

[Purpose] To present the case of the dramatic relief of low back pain, leg pain and disability in an older female with osteoarthritis, lumbar spinal stenosis and hypolordosis of the cervical and lumbar spine. [Participant and Methods] A 66-year-old female presented with chronic low back pain, right leg pain, numbness and weakness. Despite being recommended for surgery, the patient sought alternative treatment. The patient was treated with Chiropractic BioPhysics^® rehabilitation of the spine with the objective to increase the lumbar and cervical lordoses. Cervical and lumbar extension exercises and traction were performed as well as spinal manipulation. Treatment was performed approximately three times per week for 6.5 months. [Results] Re-assessment after treatment demonstrated significant reduction of low back pain, leg pain and other health improvements. X-rays showed structural improvements in the cervical and lumbar spine despite advanced osteoarthritis. [Conclusion] Lumbar and cervical hypolordosis subluxation may be increased in those with spinal deformity caused symptoms, despite the presence of osteoarthritis and degenerative stenosis of the spine. Spinal x-rays as used in the assessment and monitoring of patients being treated with contemporary spinal rehabilitation methods are not harmful and should be used for routine screening purposes.

Correction of pseudoscoliosis (lateral thoracic translation posture) for the treatment of low back pain: a CBP® case report

[Purpose] To present the case of a total reduction of pseudoscoliosis spinal deformity in an adult female suffering from recurrent back pains. [Participant and Methods] A 29 year old female suffering from recurrent back pains was diagnosed with lateral thoracic translation posture; aka pseudoscoliosis. The patient was initially given 12 treatments of relief care including spinal manipulative therapy, then another 24 treatments receiving the same plus mirror image^® translation traction and exercises. [Results] The patient achieved a complete reduction of the lateral thoracic translation posture (pseudoscoliosis) as indicated on a post-treatment radiograph after 36 total treatments. Most orthopedic tests became normalized and the patients back pains were significantly improved after the correction of posture, but only slight improvements after the initial 12 sessions of manipulative therapy only. [Conclusion] Pseudoscoliosis is structurally reducible by use of CBP^® mirror image^® lateral translation traction methods and exercises and led to the resolution of back pains in this case. The diagnosis of pseudoscoliosis as opposed to true scoliosis is very important and likely underdiagnosed in common practice. Upright radiographic imaging is essential to differentiate these two spinal disorders and offers no harm to the patient. Comprehensive assessment including routine use of x-ray is recommended to differentiate between spinal disorders.

Alleviation of chronic spine pain and headaches by reducing forward head posture and thoracic hyperkyphosis: a CBP® case report

[Purpose] This case presents the reduction of both forward head posture and thoracic hyperkyphosis in a young male with chronic back pain and headaches by a comprehensive posture rehabilitation program as a part of Chiropractic BioPhysics^® methods. [Participant and Methods] A 32 year old male presented with constant pain and headaches for seven years since he was involved in a work related injury. He had seen five different MDs, undergone multiple imaging tests, and received multiple prescriptions, thirteen steroid injections and was recommended for a spine surgery that he had denied. He was on long-term disability. Upon comprehensive posture and spine assessment, the patient had exaggerated forward head translation and thoracic hyperkyphosis. The patient was treated 36 times over 13-weeks with cervical and thoracic extension exercises, traction, and manipulation. [Results] After treatment the patient reported dramatic improvement in symptoms as indicated on valid disability questionnaires and substantial improvements in posture. [Conclusion] Posture-related pain and disability is not often addressed in allopathic medicine but substantial posture improvements are achievable in short time periods as this case illustrates. Poor postures in young patients should be corrected to avoid long-term consequences. Radiography as used in spinal rehabilitation is safe and reliable.

Non-operative correction of flat back syndrome using lumbar extension traction: a CBP® case series of two

[Purpose] To document the non-operative rehabilitation of lumbar lordosis in two cases with chronic low back pain and flexible flat back syndrome. [Participants and Methods] Two young adult males reported suffering from chronic low back pain associated with anterior sagittal balance and severe loss of lumbar lordosis, aka ‘flat back syndrome.’ Lumbar extension traction was applied 3–5 times per week for 16.5–20 weeks. A torsion type lumbar spinal manipulative therapy was provided in the initial 3 weeks for short-term pain relief. [Results] Both patients had dramatic improvement in lumbar lordosis with simultaneous reduction in pain levels. One patient had a 50° lordosis improvement in 100 treatments over 20 weeks; the other had a 26° lordosis improvement in 70 treatments over 16.5 weeks. There were also improvements in sacral base angle, pelvic tilt and sagittal balance. One patient demonstrated stability of health status and further improvements in radiographic measures including lordosis angle nearly 10-months post-treatment. [Conclusion] This is the first successful non-operative correction of flat back syndrome. This approach seems highly effective, is a fraction of the cost of spinal surgery typically used to treat this condition, and offers no health risks including those assumed from radiography necessary for screening and follow-up.

The CBP® mirror image® approach to reducing thoracic hyperkyphosis: a retrospective case series of 10 patients

[Purpose] To present a case series demonstrating the reduction of thoracic hyperkyphosis by the Chiropractic BioPhysics^® multimodal rehabilitation program. [Participants and Methods] Ten randomly selected files and corresponding radiographs were chosen from recent clinic archives of patients who were treated for thoracic hyperkyphosis. All patients were treated by CBP mirror image^® thoracic extension traction and exercises, as well as spinal manipulative therapy. [Results] Results demonstrated an average reduction in hyperkyphosis of 11.3° over an average of 25 treatments, over an average of 9 weeks. Patients also experienced a reduction in pain levels and disability ratings. [Conclusion] Postural hyperkyphosis is a serious progressive deformity that is related to a plethora of symptoms, syndromes, and early death. Thoracic hyperkyphosis may be reduced/corrected by posture-specific, thoracic extension protocols including mirror image extension traction and exercises, as well as spinal manipulation as part of the CBP multi-modal rehabilitation program.

X-Ray Imaging is Essential for Contemporary Chiropractic and Manual Therapy Spinal Rehabilitation: Radiography Increases Benefits and Reduces Risks

To remedy spine-related problems, assessments of X-ray images are essential to determine the spine and postural parameters. Chiropractic/manual therapy realignment of the structure of the spine can address a wide range of pain, muscle weakness, and functional impairments. Alternate methods to assess such spine problems are often indirect and do not reveal the root cause and could result in a significant misdiagnosis, leading to inappropriate treatment and harmful consequences for the patient. Radiography reveals the true condition and alignment of the spine; it eliminates guesswork. Contemporary approaches to spinal rehabilitation, guided by accurate imaging, have demonstrated superiority over primitive treatments. Unfortunately, there are well-meaning but misguided activists who advocate elimination or minimization of exposures in spine radiography. The radiation dose employed for a plain radiograph is very low, about 100 times below the threshold dose for harmful effects. Rather than increasing risk, such exposures would likely stimulate the patient’s own protection systems and result in beneficial health effects. Spine care guidelines need to be revised to reflect the potential benefits of modern treatments and the lack of health risks from low X-ray doses. This would encourage routine use of radiography in manual spine therapy, which differs from common pharmacologic pain relief practice.

Radiophobia: 7 Reasons Why Radiography Used in Spine and Posture Rehabilitation Should Not Be Feared or Avoided

Evidence-based contemporary spinal rehabilitation often requires radiography. Use of radiography (X-rays or computed tomography scans) should not be feared, avoided, or have their exposures lessened to decrease patient dose possibly jeopardizing image quality. This is because all fears of radiation exposures from medical diagnostic imaging are based on complete fabrication of health risks based on an outdated, invalid linear model that has simply been propagated for decades. We present 7 main arguments for continued use of radiography for routine use in spinal rehabilitation: (1) the linear no-threshold model for radiation risk estimates is invalid for low-dose exposures; (2) low-dose radiation enhances health via the body's adaptive response mechanisms (ie, radiation hormesis); (3) an X-ray with low-dose radiation only induces 1 one-millionth the amount of cellular damage as compared to breathing air for a day; (4) radiography is below inescapable natural annual background radiation levels; (5) radiophobia stems from unwarranted fears and false beliefs; (6) radiography use leads to better patient outcomes; (7) the risk to benefit ratio is always beneficial for routine radiography. Radiography is a safe imaging method for routine use in patient assessment, screening, diagnosis, and biomechanical analysis and for monitoring treatment progress in daily clinical practice.

Relief of exertional dyspnea and spinal pains by increasing the thoracic kyphosis in straight back syndrome (thoracic hypo-kyphosis) using CBP® methods: a case report with long-term follow-up

[Purpose] To present the clinically significant improvement of straight back syndrome (SBS) in a patient with spinal pain and exertional dyspnea. [Subject and Methods] A 19 year old presented with excessive thoracic hypokyphosis and other postural deviations. A multimodal CBP^® mirror image^® protocol of corrective exercises, traction procedures and spine/posture adjusting were given over an initial 12-week course of intensive treatment followed by a 2.75 year follow-up with minimal supportive treatment. [Results] The patient had significant postural improvements in all postural measures and specifically a 14° increase in the thoracic kyphosis that was maintained at long-term follow-up. The postural improvements were consistent with relief of exertional dyspnea and pain, as well as increases in both antero-posterior thoracic diameter and the ratio of antero-posterior to transthoracic diameter, measurements critical to the wellbeing of patients with SBS. [Conclusion] Long-term follow-up confirmed stable improvement in physiologic thoracic kyphosis in this patient. Nonsurgical correction in thoracic hypokyphosis/SBS can be achieved by mirror image traction procedures configured to flex the thoracic spine into hyperkyphosis as well as corrective exercise and manipulation as a part of CBP technique protocols.

Resolution of temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJD) by correcting a lateral head translation posture following previous failed traditional chiropractic therapy: a CBP® case report

[Purpose] To present the case of the resolution of right temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJD) following the correction of a right lateral head translation posture. [Subject and Methods] A 24 year old female reported facial pain and jaw clicking in the right TMJ. Radiography revealed a 19 mm right head (shift) translation posture. TMJ vibration analysis showed characteristic abnormalities for the right TMJ. The patient was treated with CBP® technique mirror image® left sided exercises, and traction methods as well as spinal manipulative therapy (SMT). [Results] After 36 treatments over a 12-week time period, a complete correction of the lateral head posture was achieved corresponding with a complete resolution of jaw pain and clicking. TMJ vibration analysis demonstrated normal right side TMJ characteristics following treatment. [Conclusion] Abnormal head/neck postures, such as lateral head translation, may be an unrealized source of TMJD and may be explained through the 'regional interdependence' model or by how seemingly unrelated anatomy may be associated with a primary complaint.

Lumbar extension traction alleviates symptoms and facilitates healing of disc herniation/sequestration in 6-weeks, following failed treatment from three previous chiropractors: a CBP® case report with an 8 year follow-up

[Purpose] To present the outcome of a patient, having sciatica and MRI-verified disc herniation/sequestration who underwent Chiropractic BioPhysics^® (CBP^®) protocol designed to improve the lumbar lordosis. [Subject and Methods] A 56-year-old male suffered from chronic low back pain and recent sciatica due to lumbar disc herniation despite being under continuous care from three previous chiropractors. Radiographic analysis revealed a lumbar hypolordosis and MRI confirmed disc herniation and sequestration at L4–L5. Generalized decreased lumbar range of motion and multiple positive orthopedic and neurologic tests were present. [Results] After 26 treatments of CBP lumbar extension traction over 9-weeks a total reduction of the disc herniation and sequestration occurred with concomitant improvement in neurologic symptoms. Continuing maintenance treatments, an 8 year follow-up shows no relapse of condition and patient remained in good health. [Conclusion] A patient with lumbar disc herniation/sequestration was successfully treated with CBP technique procedures including lumbar extension traction that achieved a significant healing of herniation and significant reduction in symptoms not obtained following traditional chiropractic procedures alone. The quick reduction in lumbar disc herniation would appear to be related to a segmental disc unloading force produced during extension traction procedures for increasing the lumbar curvature.

Treating 'slouchy' (hyperkyphosis) posture with chiropractic biophysics®: a case report utilizing a multimodal mirror image® rehabilitation program

[Purpose] To present a case of the non-surgical reduction of ‘slouchy’ hyperkyphosis posture utilizing the multimodal Chiropractic BioPhysics^® rehabilitation program emphasizing the mirror image^® concept. [Subject and Methods] A 27-year-old female presented suffering from neck and back pains, headaches and gait dysfunction. The patient was treated 30 times over a period of 6-months. Treatment consisted of anterior thoracic translation, thoracic extension, and head retraction exercises as well as spinal traction and spinal manipulation. [Results] After 6-months of treatment the patient displayed a total correction of the posterior thoracic translation with a significant reduction in thoracic hyperkyphosis. The dramatic correction of her overall posture and spine alignment corresponded to the significant relief of neck and back pains, headaches and improvement of various other health issues as demonstrated by self-report and SF-36. [Conclusion] Poor postures corresponding to poor health can be changed for the better with multimodal rehabilitation programs that are now showing consistent postural improvements corresponding with improvements in various health conditions. We suggest that the postural correction of those with various pain symptoms be considered as a first line non-pharmalogical, non-surgical rehabilitation approach for those presenting with poor posture.

Characterisation of the correlation between standing lordosis and degenerative joint disease in the lower lumbar spine in women and men: a radiographic study

BACKGROUND

Degenerative joint disease (DJD) in the lumbar spine is a common condition that is associated with chronic low back pain. Excessive loading of lumbar joints is a risk factor for DJD. Changes in lumbar lordosis significantly redistribute the forces of weight-bearing on the facet joints and the intervertebral discs. However, the relationship between lumbar lordosis and DJD has not been characterized in men and women.

METHODS

We characterised the correlation between standing lumbar lordosis and DJD in standing radiographic images from 301 adult female and male chiropractic patients. DJD was rated using the Kellgren-Lawrence scale, and lordosis was measured using the Cobb angle. Linear and curvilinear correlations were investigated while controlling for age and sex.

RESULTS

We found a highly significant curvilinear correlation between lordosis and DJD of the lower lumbar spine in both sexes, but especially in women, irrespective of the effects of age. We found the effect size of lordosis on lower lumbar DJD to be between 17.4 and 18.1% in women and 12.9% in older men. In addition, lordosis of 65 (95% CI 55.3-77.7) and 68 (98% CI 58.7-73.3) degrees were associated with minimal DJD in the lower lumbar spine of women and men respectively, and were therefore considered 'optimal'. This optimal lordotic angle was 73 (95% CI 58.8-87.2) degrees in older men.

CONCLUSIONS

Both hypo- and hyper-lordosis correlate with DJD in the lumbar spine, particularly in women and in older men. These findings may well be of relevance to spinal pain management and spinal rehabilitation.

Correction of Grade 2 Spondylolisthesis Following a Non-Surgical Structural Spinal Rehabilitation Protocol Using Lumbar Traction: A Case Study and Selective Review of Literature

Objective

Discuss the use of non-surgical spinal rehabilitation protocol in the case of a 69-year-old female with a grade 2 spondylolisthesis. A selective literature review and discussion are provided.

Clinical Features

A 69-year-old female presented with moderate low back pain (7/10 pain) and severe leg cramping (7/10 pain). Initial lateral lumbar x-ray revealed a grade 2 spondylolisthesis at L4-L5 measuring 13.3 mm.

Interventions and Outcomes

The patient completed 60 sessions of Mirror Image® spinal exercises, adjustments, and traction over 45 weeks. Post-treatment lateral lumbar x-ray showed a decrease in translation of L4-L5 from 13.3 mm to 2.4 mm, within normal limits.

Conclusions

This case provides the first documented evidence of a non-surgical or chiropractic treatment, specifically Chiropractic BioPhysics®, protocols of lumbar spondylolisthesis where spinal alignment was corrected. Additional research is needed to investigate the clinical implications and treatment methods.

High-Force Versus Low-Force Lumbar Traction in Acute Lumbar Sciatica Due to Disc Herniation: A Preliminary Randomized Trial

OBJECTIVE

This study compared the effects of high-force versus low-force lumbar traction in the treatment of acute lumbar sciatica secondary to disc herniation.

METHODS

A randomized double blind trial was performed, and 17 subjects with acute lumbar sciatica secondary to disc herniation were assigned to high-force traction at 50% body weight (BW; LT50, n = 8) or low force traction at 10% BW (LT10, n = 9) for 10 sessions in 2 weeks. Radicular pain (visual analogue scale [VAS]), lumbo-pelvic-hip complex motion (finger-to-toe test), lumbar-spine mobility (Schöber-Macrae test), nerve root compression (straight-leg-raising test), disability (EIFEL score), drug consumption, and overall evaluation of each patient were measured at days 0, 7, 1, 4, and 28.

RESULTS

Significant (P < .05) improvements were observed in the LT50 and LT10 groups, respectively, between day 0 and day 14 (end of treatment) for VAS (-44% and -36%), EIFEL score (-43% and -28%) and overall patient evaluation (+3.1 and +2.0 points). At that time, LT50 specifically improved in the finger-to-toe test (-42%), the straight-leg-raising test (+58), and drug consumption (-50%). No significant interaction effect (group-by-time) was revealed, and the effect of traction treatment was independent of the level of medication. During the 2-week follow-up at day 28, only the LT10 group improved (P < .05) in VAS (-52%) and EIFEL scores (-46%). During this period, no interaction effect (group-by-time) was identified, and the observed responses were independent of the level of medication.

CONCLUSIONS

For this preliminary study, patients with acute lumbar sciatica secondary to disc herniation who received 2 weeks of lumbar traction reported reduced radicular pain and functional impairment and improved well-being regardless of the traction force group to which they were assigned. The effects of the traction treatment were independent of the initial level of medication and appeared to be maintained at the 2-week follow-up.

Multimodal treatment program comparing 2 different traction approaches for patients with discogenic cervical radiculopathy: a randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the immediate and long-term effects of a 1-year multimodal program with the addition of 2 different traction approaches on the pain, function, disability, and nerve root function in patients with discogenic cervical radiculopathy (CR). This study also attempted to identify the optimal traction angle based on the maximum recovery of the peak-to-peak amplitude of the flexor carpi radialis (FCR) H-reflex.

METHODS

This randomized clinical trial with one-year follow-up included a total of 216 (101 female) patients with unilateral lower discogenic CR were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups. The standard care group (C) received the multimodal program (pain relief methods, muscle strengthening, and thoracic spine manipulation). The ventroflexion traction group (A) received the same multimodal program as group C, with added traditional ventroflexion traction. The novel traction group (B) received the same multimodal program as group C in addition to a flexor carpi radialis (FCR) H-reflex-based traction method. Primary outcomes were the Neck Disability Index (NDI) and secondary outcomes included neck pain, arm pain, and the amplitude and latency of the H-reflex. Patients were assessed at 3 intervals (pre-treatment, 4 weeks post-treatment, and the 1-year follow-up).

RESULTS

The mixed linear model with repeated measures indicated a significant group × time effect in favor of the novel cervical traction group (B) for measures of NDI (F = 412.6, P < .0005), neck pain (F = 108.9, P < .0005), arm pain (F = 91.3, P < .0005), H- reflex amplitude (F = 207.7, P < .0005), and H-reflex latency (F = 58.9 P < .0005). We found that the extension position of cervical spine (5° extension) was the position that achieved the maximum improvement in the novel cervical traction method.

CONCLUSIONS

This preliminary study showed that a multimodal program with a novel cervical traction method added improved NDI, neck pain, arm pain, and the amplitude and latency of FCR H-reflex for a group of patients with chronic discogenic CR.

Foot posture, leg length discrepancy and low back pain--their relationship and clinical management using foot orthoses--an overview

Mechanical low back pain (LBP) is a very common, expensive, and significant health issue in the western world. Functional musculoskeletal conditions are widely thought to cause mechanical low back pain. The role of foot posture and leg length discrepancy in contributing to abnormal biomechanics of the lumbopelvic region and low back pain is not sufficiently investigated. This critical review examines the evidence for the association between foot function, particularly pronation, and mechanical LBP. It also explores the evidence for a role for foot orthoses in the treatment of this condition. There is a body of evidence to support the notion that foot posture, particularly hyperpronation, is associated with mechanical low back pain. Mechanisms that have been put forward to account for this finding are based on either mechanical postural changes or alterations in muscular activity in the lumbar and pelvic muscles. More research is needed to explore and quantify the effects of foot orthoses on chronic low back pain, especially their effects on lumbopelvic muscle function and posture. The clinical implications of this work are significant since foot orthoses represent a simple and potentially effective therapeutic measure for a clinical condition of high personal and social burden.

Biomechanical analysis of two-step traction therapy in the lumbar spine

Traction therapy is one of the most common conservative treatments for low back pain. However, the effects of traction therapy on lumbar spine biomechanics are not well known. We investigated biomechanical effects of two-step traction therapy, which consists of global axial traction and local decompression, on the lumbar spine using a validated three-dimensional finite element model of the lumbar spine. One-third of body weight was applied on the center of the L1 vertebra toward the superior direction for the first axial traction. Anterior translation of the L4 vertebra was considered as the second local decompression. The lordosis angle between the superior planes of the L1 vertebra and sacrum was 44.6° at baseline, 35.2° with global axial traction, and 46.4° with local decompression. The fibers of annulus fibrosus in the posterior region, and intertransverse and posterior longitudinal ligaments experienced stress primarily during global axial traction, these stresses decreased during local decompression. A combination of global axial traction and local decompression would be helpful for reducing tensile stress on the fibers of the annulus fibrosus and ligaments, and intradiscal pressure in traction therapy. This study could be used to develop a safer and more effective type of traction therapy.