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Young I, Dunning J, Butts R, Bliton P, Zacharko N, Garcia J, Mourad F, Charlebois C, Gorby P, Fernández-de-Las-Peñas C. Spinal manipulation and electrical dry needling as an adjunct to conventional physical therapy in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis: a multi-center randomized clinical trial. Spine J 2024; 24:590-600. [PMID: 38103739 DOI: 10.1016/j.spinee.2023.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CONTEXT Nonoperative management of lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) includes activity modification, medication, injections, and physical therapy. Conventional physical therapy includes a multimodal approach of exercise, manual therapy, and electro-thermal modalities. There is a paucity of evidence supporting the use of spinal manipulation and dry needling as an adjunct to conventional physical therapy in patients with LSS. PURPOSE This study aimed to determine the effects of adding thrust spinal manipulation and electrical dry needling to conventional physical therapy in patients with LSS. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING Randomized, single-blinded, multi-center, parallel-group clinical trial. PATIENT SAMPLE One hundred twenty-eight (n=128) patients with LSS from 12 outpatient clinics in 8 states were recruited over a 34-month period. OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcomes included the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Secondary outcomes included the Roland Morris Disability Index (RMDI), Global Rating of Change (GROC), and medication intake. Follow-up assessments were taken at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and 3 months. METHODS Patients were randomized to receive either spinal manipulation, electrical dry needling, and conventional physical therapy (MEDNCPT group, n=65) or conventional physical therapy alone (CPT group, n=63). RESULTS At 3 months, the MEDNCPT group experienced greater reductions in overall low back, buttock, and leg pain (NPRS: F=5.658; p=.002) and related-disability (ODI: F=9.921; p<.001; RMDI: F=7.263; p<.001) compared to the CPT group. Effect sizes were small at 2 and 6 weeks, and medium at 3 months for the NPRS, ODI, and RMDI. At 3 months, significantly (p=.003) more patients in the MEDNCPT group reported a successful outcome (GROC≥+5) than the CPT group. CONCLUSION Patients with LSS who received electrical dry needling and spinal manipulation in addition to impairment-based exercise, manual therapy and electro-thermal modalities experienced greater improvements in low back, buttock and leg pain and related-disability than those receiving exercise, manual therapy, and electro-thermal modalities alone at 3 months, but not at the 2 or 6 week follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Young
- American Academy of Manipulative Therapy Fellowship in Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapy, Montgomery, AL, USA; Tybee Wellness & Osteopractic, Tybee Island, GA, USA.
| | - James Dunning
- American Academy of Manipulative Therapy Fellowship in Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapy, Montgomery, AL, USA; Montgomery Osteopractic Physical Therapy & Acupuncture Clinic, Montgomery, AL, USA
| | | | - Paul Bliton
- American Academy of Manipulative Therapy Fellowship in Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapy, Montgomery, AL, USA; William S. Middleton Veterans Memorial Hospital, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Noah Zacharko
- American Academy of Manipulative Therapy Fellowship in Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapy, Montgomery, AL, USA; Osteopractic Physical Therapy of the Carolinas, Fort Mill, SC, USA
| | - Jodan Garcia
- Department of Physical Therapy, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Firas Mourad
- Department of Physiotherapy, LUNEX International University of Health, Exercise and Sports, Differdange, Luxembourg
| | - Casey Charlebois
- American Academy of Manipulative Therapy Fellowship in Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapy, Montgomery, AL, USA
| | - Patrick Gorby
- American Academy of Manipulative Therapy Fellowship in Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapy, Montgomery, AL, USA; Gorby Osteopractic Physiotherapy, Colorado Springs, CO, USA
| | - César Fernández-de-Las-Peñas
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Spain; Cátedra de Clínica, Investigación y Docencia en Fisioterapia: Terapia Manual, Punción Secay Ejercicio, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
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Niazi IK, Navid MS, Merkle C, Amjad I, Kumari N, Trager RJ, Holt K, Haavik H. A randomized controlled trial comparing different sites of high-velocity low amplitude thrust on sensorimotor integration parameters. Sci Rep 2024; 14:1159. [PMID: 38216596 PMCID: PMC10786886 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-51201-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence suggests that a high-velocity, low-amplitude (HVLA) thrust directed at a dysfunctional vertebral segment in people with subclinical spinal pain alters various neurophysiological measures, including somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs). We hypothesized that an HVLA thrust applied to a clinician chosen vertebral segment based on clinical indicators of vertebral dysfunction, in short, segment considered as "relevant" would significantly reduce the N30 amplitude compared to an HVLA thrust applied to a predetermined vertebral segment not based on clinical indicators of vertebral dysfunction or segment considered as "non-relevant". In this double-blinded, active-controlled, parallel-design study, 96 adults with recurrent mild neck pain, ache, or stiffness were randomly allocated to receiving a single thrust directed at either a segment considered as "relevant" or a segment considered as "non-relevant" in their upper cervical spine. SEPs of median nerve stimulation were recorded before and immediately after a single HVLA application delivered using an adjusting instrument (Activator). A linear mixed model was used to assess changes in the N30 amplitude. A significant interaction between the site of thrust delivery and session was found (F1,840 = 9.89, p < 0.002). Pairwise comparisons showed a significant immediate decrease in the N30 complex amplitude after the application of HVLA thrust to a segment considered "relevant" (- 16.76 ± 28.32%, p = 0.005). In contrast, no significant change was observed in the group that received HVLA thrust over a segment considered "non-relevant" (p = 0.757). Cervical HVLA thrust applied to the segment considered as "relevant" altered sensorimotor parameters, while cervical HVLA thrust over the segment considered as "non-relevant" did not. This finding supports the hypothesis that spinal site targeting of HVLA interventions is important when measuring neurophysiological responses. Further studies are needed to explore the potential clinical relevance of these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imran Khan Niazi
- Centre for Chiropractic Research, New Zealand College of Chiropractic, Auckland, New Zealand.
- Faculty of Health & Environmental Sciences, Health & Rehabilitation Research Institute, AUT University, Auckland, New Zealand.
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark.
| | - Muhammad Samran Navid
- Centre for Chiropractic Research, New Zealand College of Chiropractic, Auckland, New Zealand
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Christopher Merkle
- Centre for Chiropractic Research, New Zealand College of Chiropractic, Auckland, New Zealand
- Hamburg University of Applied Sciences, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Imran Amjad
- Centre for Chiropractic Research, New Zealand College of Chiropractic, Auckland, New Zealand
- Riphah International University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Nitika Kumari
- Centre for Chiropractic Research, New Zealand College of Chiropractic, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Robert J Trager
- Connor Whole Health, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, USA
- College of Chiropractic, Logan University, Chesterfield, USA
| | - Kelly Holt
- Centre for Chiropractic Research, New Zealand College of Chiropractic, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Heidi Haavik
- Centre for Chiropractic Research, New Zealand College of Chiropractic, Auckland, New Zealand.
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Creighton D, Fausone D, Swanson B, Young W, Nolff S, Ruble A, Hassan N, Soley E. Myofascial and discogenic origins of lumbar pain: A critical review. J Man Manip Ther 2023; 31:435-448. [PMID: 37503571 PMCID: PMC10642329 DOI: 10.1080/10669817.2023.2237739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this three-part narrative review is to examine the anatomy of, and the research which supports, either the lumbar myofascia or intervertebral disc (IVD) as principal sources of our patient's low back pain. A comprehensive understanding of anatomical lumbar pain generators in combination with the current treatment-based classification system will further improve and enhance clinical decision-making skills. Section I reviews the anatomy of the spinal myofascia, myofascial sources of lumbar pain, and imaging of myofascial tissues. Part II reviews the anatomy of the IVD, examines the IVD as a potential lumbar pain generator, and includes detailed discussion on Nerve Growth Factor, Inflammatory Cytokines, Vertebral End Plates and Modic change, Annular tears, and Discogenic instability. Part III looks at the history of myofascial pain, lab-based research and myofascial pain, and various levels of discogenic pain provocation research including animal, laboratory and human subjects. Our review concludes with author recommendations on developing a comprehensive understanding of altered stress concentrations affecting the posterior annulus fibrosis, neo-innervation of the IVD, inflammatory cytokines, discogenic instability, and how this knowledge can complement use of the Treatment-Based Classification System.
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James CM, Brismée JM, St-Pierre MO, Descarreaux M, Hooper TL, Nougarou F, Bélanger EM, Sobczak S. Variability of Intradiscal Pressure During Cervical Spine Posterior-Anterior Mobilization: A Cadaveric Investigation. J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2022; 45:522-530. [PMID: 36529553 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmpt.2022.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to investigate in cadaveric specimens the reliability of measuring cervical intradiscal pressure (CIDP) and if posterior-anterior (PA) mobilizations targeting the cervical spine were associated with CIDP changes. METHODS Cervical PA mobilizations were performed on the spinous processes of 7 (3 men, 4 women) cadaveric specimens using a servo-controlled linear actuator to provide 25N and 45N forces. CIDP measurements were performed at C4-5, C5-6, C6-7, and C7-T1 intervertebral discs (IVDs) using a fiberoptic catheter system that recorded CIDP for each IVD cervical segment. To assess CIDP measurement reliability, the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC [3,k]) was calculated. Repeated measures Friedman analysis of variance assessed effect of cervical mobilizations on CIDP for before, during, and immediately after mobilization at 25N and 45N forces for each cervical IVD segment. RESULTS All CIDP measurements demonstrated excellent reliability (ICC >0.98). During the 25N mobilizations, the median CIDP varied from -0.12 to 0.91 (interquartile range, 5.22-5.36), while for 45N mobilizations the median ranged from -0.94 to 1.21 (interquartile range, -7.74 to 43.49). These changes were not statistically significant (P > .40) during 25N and 45N PA mobilizations, with the exception of C5-6 CIDP at 25N and 45N (P = .05 and .018, respectively). CONCLUSION There was high CIDP variability between cadavers during and after mobilization. Mobilizations of 1 cervical vertebra resulted in both CIDP increase or decrease at adjacent and remote cervical IVD segments that were not consistent. Cervical PA mobilizations produced variable CIDP changes at adjacent and remote cervical segments in cadavers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla M James
- Center for Rehabilitation Research, School of Health Professions, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas; Department of Anatomy, University of Québec at Trois-Rivières, Clinical and Functional Anatomy Research Unit (URACEF), Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada
| | - Jean-Michel Brismée
- Center for Rehabilitation Research, School of Health Professions, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas.
| | - Marc-Olivier St-Pierre
- Department of Anatomy, University of Québec at Trois-Rivières, Clinical and Functional Anatomy Research Unit (URACEF), Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada
| | - Martin Descarreaux
- Department of Sciences of Physical Activity, University of Québec at Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada
| | - Troy L Hooper
- Center for Rehabilitation Research, School of Health Professions, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas
| | - François Nougarou
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering, University of Québec at Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada
| | - Emile Marineau Bélanger
- Department of Sciences of Physical Activity, University of Québec at Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada
| | - Stéphane Sobczak
- Department of Anatomy, University of Québec at Trois-Rivières, Clinical and Functional Anatomy Research Unit (URACEF), Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada
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Funabashi M, Breen AC, De Carvalho D, Pagé I, Nougarou F, Descarreaux M, Kawchuk GN. Force Distribution Within Spinal Tissues During Posterior to Anterior Spinal Manipulative Therapy: A Secondary Analysis. Front Integr Neurosci 2022; 15:809372. [PMID: 35185486 PMCID: PMC8855051 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2021.809372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Previous studies observed that the intervertebral disc experiences the greatest forces during spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) and that the distribution of forces among spinal tissues changes as a function of the SMT parameters. However, contextualized SMT forces, relative to the ones applied to and experienced by the whole functional spinal unit, is needed to understand SMT’s underlying mechanisms. Aim To describe the percentage force distribution between spinal tissues relative to the applied SMT forces and total force experienced by the functional unit. Methods This secondary analysis combined data from 35 fresh porcine cadavers exposed to a simulated 300N SMT to the skin overlying the L3/L4 facet joint via servo-controlled linear motor actuator. Vertebral kinematics were tracked optically using indwelling bone pins. The functional spinal unit was then removed and mounted on a parallel robotic platform equipped with a 6-axis load cell. The kinematics of the spine during SMT were replayed by the robotic platform. By using serial dissection, peak and mean forces induced by the simulated SMT experienced by spinal structures in all three axes of motion were recorded. Forces experienced by spinal structures were analyzed descriptively and the resultant force magnitude was calculated. Results During SMT, the functional spinal unit experienced a median peak resultant force of 36.4N (IQR: 14.1N) and a mean resultant force of 25.4N (IQR: 11.9N). Peak resultant force experienced by the spinal segment corresponded to 12.1% of the total applied SMT force (300N). When the resultant force experienced by the functional spinal unit was considered to be 100%, the supra and interspinous ligaments experienced 0.3% of the peak forces and 0.5% of the mean forces. Facet joints and ligamentum flavum experienced 0.7% of the peak forces and 3% of the mean forces. Intervertebral disc and longitudinal ligaments experienced 99% of the peak and 96.5% of the mean forces. Conclusion In this animal model, a small percentage of the forces applied during a posterior-to-anterior SMT reached spinal structures in the lumbar spine. Most SMT forces (over 96%) are experienced by the intervertebral disc. This study provides a novel perspective on SMT force distribution within spinal tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha Funabashi
- Division of Research and Innovation, Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Chiropractic Department, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, QC, Canada
- *Correspondence: Martha Funabashi,
| | | | - Diana De Carvalho
- Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL, Canada
| | - Isabelle Pagé
- Chiropractic Department, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, QC, Canada
| | - François Nougarou
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, QC, Canada
| | - Martin Descarreaux
- Human Kinetics Department, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, QC, Canada
| | - Gregory N. Kawchuk
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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Nicol R, Yu H, Selb M, Prodinger B, Hartvigsen J, Côté P. How Does the Measurement of Disability in Low Back Pain Map Unto the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health?: A Scoping Review of the Manual Medicine Literature. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2021; 100:367-395. [PMID: 33141774 DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000001636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to catalog items from instruments used to measure functioning, disability, and contextual factors in patients with low back pain treated with manual medicine (manipulation and mobilization) according to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health. This catalog will be used to inform the development of an International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health-based assessment schedule for low back pain patients treated with manual medicine. In this scoping review, we systematically searched MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and CINAHL. We identified instruments (questionnaires, clinical tests, single questions) used to measure functioning, disability, and contextual factors, extracted the relevant items, and then linked these items to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health. We included 95 articles and identified 1510 meaningful concepts. All but 70 items were linked to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health. Of the concepts linked to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health, body functions accounted for 34.7%, body structures accounted for 0%, activities and participation accounted for 41%, environmental factors accounted for 3.6%, and personal factors accounted for 16%. Most items used to measure functioning and disability in low back pain patient treated with manual medicine focus on body functions, as well as activities and participation. The lack of measures that address environmental factors warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Nicol
- From the ELiB (et liv i bevegelse), Oslo, Norway (RN); UOIT-CMCC Centre for Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation, University of Ontario Institute of Technology, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada (HY, PC); ICF Research Branch, Nottwil, Switzerland (MS); Swiss Paraplegic Research, Nottwil, Switzerland (MS); Department of Applied Health and Social Sciences, University of Applied Sciences Rosenheim, Rosenheim, Germany (BP); Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (JH); Nordic Institute of Chiropractic and Clinical Biomechanics, Odense, Denmark (JH); and Faculty of Health Sciences, Ontario Tech University, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada (PC)
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Bensoussan C, Champclou A, Galarraga O, Letellier G, Rahmani A, Riochet D, De-Sèze M. Assessing the contribution of lower limb mobilization, in the supine position, on shoulder-pelvis girdles dissociation. Gait Posture 2021; 85:224-231. [PMID: 33618166 DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2020.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several articular, muscular and neurological diseases generate mobility loss in the shoulder and pelvis girdles. Joint mobilization contributes to improving shoulder-pelvis girdles dissociation, but current mobilization techniques are not always successful and standardized. A robotic medical device, DPA Med®, by inducing trunk mobilization through lower limb oscillation has been developed for producing such a shoulder-pelvis girdles dissociation and is already used worldwide in rehabilitation hospitals. RESEARCH QUESTION To determine the optimal lower limb oscillation frequency that generated the best shoulder-pelvis girdles dissociation using the DPA Med® device. METHODS Thirty healthy adult volunteers (mean age: 38.6 [SD 15.2] years, mean height: 174 [SD 11.9] cm, mean body mass: 70.3 [SD 14.7] kg) participated in this prospective study. A kinematic analysis quantified pelvic and shoulder girdle mobility (rotation and lateral tilt) at different DPA Med® frequencies, from 0.5 Hz to 1 Hz. A visual analysis of the lower limb movement was also performed, using video sensors, to better understand the kinematics involved. RESULTS All DPA Med® frequencies have shown significant shoulder-pelvis girdles dissociation (p < 0.05). This study established an optimal oscillation frequency with the minimal interindividual variability at 0.808 Hz. It induced pelvic mobility similar to that of normal gait, in the transverse and frontal planes (10.3°, SD 2.9°, and 12.0°, SD 2.2°, respectively). This trunk mobility was achieved by producing a lemniscate-shaped motion in the lower limbs (an eight-shaped motion in the transverse plane). SIGNIFICANCE This study has shown that the DPA Med® device is able to induce shoulder-pelvis girdles dissociation similar to that of normal gait and allowed to establish the existence of an optimal DPA Med® oscillation frequency for lower limb mobility at 0.808 Hz. Further studies are required to evaluate its potentially benefits on gait disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Omar Galarraga
- Movement Analysis Laboratory, Rehabilitation Center of Coubert, France
| | - Guy Letellier
- Pediatric Rehabilitation Center (ESEAN-APF), Nantes, France
| | | | - David Riochet
- Pediatric Rehabilitation Center (ESEAN-APF), Nantes, France; Movement Analysis Laboratory, Le Mans University, France; Nantes University Hospital, France
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Hallur SS, Brismée JM, Sizer PS, Dierick F, Dewan BM, Thiry P, Sobczak S. Three-Dimensional Spinal Position With and Without Manual Distraction Load Increases Spinal Height. J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2020; 43:267-275. [PMID: 32709513 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmpt.2019.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Revised: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to investigate if spinal height increases using 3-dimensional (3-D) spinal position with and without manual distraction load and to assess the correlation between spine height changes and degrees of trunk rotation. METHODS Fifty-six participants were randomly placed in one of two groups: (1) 3-D spinal position with manual distraction load, and (2) without manual distraction load. Spinal height was measured before and after the interventions using a stadiometer. For the statistical analysis, we used a 2 (Loading status: pre- versus post-intervention height) X 2 (3-D spinal position: with versus without manual distraction load) repeated measures Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to identify significant interaction and main effects. Paired t-tests were used to calculate differences in spinal height changes between the two interventions. Pearson correlation coefficient was used to measure correlations between changes in spinal heights and degrees of trunk rotation. RESULTS Mean spinal height increase with 3-D spinal position with and without manual distraction load was 6.30 mm (±6.22) and 5.69 mm (±4.13), respectively. No significant interaction effect was present between loading status and 3-D spinal position but a significant main effect in loading status was. Paired t-tests revealed significant differences in spinal heights between pre-and post-3-D spinal position with and without manual distraction load. No significant correlation was measured between trunk rotation and spinal height changes. CONCLUSION 3-D spinal position with or without distraction load increased spinal height. This suggests that 3-D spinal positioning without manual distraction could be used in home settings to help maintain intervertebral disc (IVD) health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sohal S Hallur
- Center for Rehabilitation Research, School of Health Professions, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX
| | - Jean-Michel Brismée
- Center for Rehabilitation Research, School of Health Professions, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX.
| | - Phillip S Sizer
- Center for Rehabilitation Research, School of Health Professions, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX
| | - Frédéric Dierick
- Centre National de R é education Fonctionnelle et de R éadaptation-Rehazenter, Laboratoire d'Analyse du Mouvement et de la Posture (LAMP), Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg
| | - Birendra M Dewan
- Center for Rehabilitation Research, School of Health Professions, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX
| | - Paul Thiry
- Forme & Fonctionnement Humain Laboratory, Physical Therapy Department, CERISIC, Haute Ecole Louvain en Hainaut & Université Catholique de Louvain, Faculty of Motor Sciences, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Stéphane Sobczak
- Research Unit in Clinical and Functional Anatomy, Départment d'anatomie, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Canada
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Lascurain-Aguirrebeña I, Newham DJ, Casado-Zumeta X, Lertxundi A, Critchley DJ. Immediate effects of cervical mobilisations on neck muscle activity during active neck movements in patients with non-specific neck pain. A double blind placebo controlled trial. Physiotherapy 2019; 110:42-53. [PMID: 33131786 DOI: 10.1016/j.physio.2019.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cervical mobilisations are used to treat people with neck pain but their mechanisms of action are unclear. One theorised reason for induced analgesia is effect on neck muscle activity. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of cervical mobilisations on muscle activity during active neck movements and whether changes in muscle activity are associated with changes in symptoms. DESIGN Double-blind randomised placebo controlled trial. SETTING Primary care. PARTICIPANTS 40 patients (aged 19 to 80 years, 24 female) with non-specific neck pain. INTERVENTIONS One session of cervical mobilisations or motionless manual contact (placebo). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES sternocleidomastoid (SCM), scalene (SCA), upper trapezius (UT) and erector spinae (ES) surface electromyography (SEMG) during active neck flexion, extension, side flexion and rotation was measured immediately before and after the intervention. Patients were classified as responders according to change in symptoms assessed using the Global Rating of Change Scale (GROC). RESULTS Compared with placebo, patients receiving mobilisation showed an increase in contralateral UT and ES SEMG during rotation and contralateral and ipsilateral SCM, SCA and UT during side flexion (P<0.05), however changes were mostly associated with an increase in range and speed of movement. The only association with GROC was increased (5%) SEMG in the contralateral SCM during side flexion in the mobilisation group (P=0.013). CONCLUSION Cervical mobilisations caused increased neck SEMG, mostly due to increased movement range and speed. Change in muscle activity is unlikely to be a major mechanism of action of cervical mobilisations in symptomatic improvement with physiological neck movements. (ClinicalTrials.gov record number: 2016/066). CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRY ClinicalTrials.gov record number: 2016/066.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ion Lascurain-Aguirrebeña
- Division of Health and Social Care Research, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, United Kingdom; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine & Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa 48940, Spain.
| | - Di J Newham
- Centre of Human & Applied Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, United Kingdom.
| | | | - Aitana Lertxundi
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa 48940, Spain; Health Research Institute, Biodonostia, San Sebastian, Spain; Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Duncan J Critchley
- Division of Health and Social Care Research, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, United Kingdom.
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Kolber MJ, Purita J, Paulus C, Carreno JA, Hanney WJ. Platelet Rich Plasma: Postprocedural Considerations for the Sports Medicine Professional. Strength Cond J 2018. [DOI: 10.1519/ssc.0000000000000403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Lascurain-Aguirrebeña I, Newham DJ, Galarraga-Gallastegui B, Critchley DJ. Differences in neck surface electromyography, kinematics and pain occurrence during physiological neck movements between neck pain and asymptomatic participants. A cross-sectional study. Clin Biomech (Bristol, Avon) 2018; 57:1-9. [PMID: 29864606 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2018.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Revised: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neck pain has been associated with altered muscle activity and impaired kinematics. Patients frequently report pain during physiological neck movements. Previously, the average muscle activity during these movements has been measured. However, muscle activity is modulated by the position in the range of movement, hence the study of neck muscle activity in discrete sections of the range of movement is warranted. Evidence is conflicting regarding range of movement restriction in neck pain. No study has assessed the point in the range of movement at which pain occurs. This study aimed to investigate neck kinematics, muscle activity and pain during physiological neck movements in participants with and without neck pain. METHODS Neck kinematics and surface electromyography were recorded continuously and analysed in 10° increments during forward and side flexion, extension and rotation of the neck in 20 neck pain and 20 asymptomatic participants. Point of pain occurrence in the range of movement was recorded. FINDINGS Neck pain participants demonstrated significantly lower activity of scalene during flexion and extension, and a non-significant higher activity in sternocleidomastoids during rotation. No differences in neck kinematics were observed. 65% of neck pain participants reported pain during at least one neck movement. Pain was reported in the last ≈20-40% of the range of movement. INTERPRETATION Exercises used in current practice to minimise scalene activity may not be appropriate for all neck pain patients. Restricted range of movement is not a consistent feature of neck pain. Movement associated neck pain is present at the end of range of movement, which has implications for the study of neck pain and rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ion Lascurain-Aguirrebeña
- School of Population Sciences and Health Services Research, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, United Kingdom; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine & Odontology, University of the Basque Country, Leioa 48940, Spain.
| | - Di J Newham
- Centre of Human & Aerospace Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, United Kingdom.
| | | | - Duncan J Critchley
- School of Population Sciences and Health Services Research, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, United Kingdom.
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12
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Thiry P, Reumont F, Brismée JM, Dierick F. Short-term increase in discs' apparent diffusion is associated with pain and mobility improvements after spinal mobilization for low back pain. Sci Rep 2018; 8:8281. [PMID: 29844484 PMCID: PMC5974269 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-26697-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2017] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain perception, trunk mobility and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) within all lumbar intervertebral discs (IVDs) were collected before and shortly after posterior-to-anterior (PA) mobilizations in 16 adults with acute low back pain. Using a pragmatic approach, a trained orthopaedic manual physical therapist applied PA mobilizations to the participants' spine, in accordance with his examination findings. ADC all was computed from diffusion maps as the mean of anterior (ADC ant ), middle (ADC mid ), and posterior (ADC post ) portions of the IVD. After mobilization, pain ratings and trunk mobility were significantly improved and a significant increase in ADC all values was observed. The greatest ADC all changes were observed at the L3-L4 and L4-L5 levels and were mainly explained by changes in ADC ant and ADC post , respectively. No significant changes in ADC were observed at L5-S1 level. The reduction in pain and largest changes in ADC observed at the periphery of the hyperintense IVD region suggest that increased peripheral random motion of water molecules is implicated in the IVD nociceptive response modulation. Additionally, ADC changes were observed at remote IVD anatomical levels that did not coincide with the PA spinal mobilization application level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Thiry
- OMT Skills, Private physical therapy practice, La Louvière, 7100, Belgium
| | - François Reumont
- OMT Skills, Private physical therapy practice, La Louvière, 7100, Belgium
| | - Jean-Michel Brismée
- Center for Rehabilitation Research and Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas, USA
| | - Frédéric Dierick
- Forme & Fonctionnement Humain Lab, Physical Therapy Department, CERISIC, Haute Ecole Louvain en Hainaut, Montignies-sur-Sambre, 6061, Belgium. .,Université catholique de Louvain, Faculty of Motor Sciences, Louvain-la-Neuve, 1348, Belgium.
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13
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Mitchell UH, Beattie PF, Bowden J, Larson R, Wang H. Age-related differences in the response of the L5-S1 intervertebral disc to spinal traction. Musculoskelet Sci Pract 2017. [PMID: 28624722 DOI: 10.1016/j.msksp.2017.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lumbar traction is a common treatment for low back pain; however its mechanisms of action are poorly understood. It has been hypothesized that a key effect of lumbar traction is its capacity to influence fluid movement within the intervertebral disc (IVD). OBJECTIVES To determine differences in the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) obtained with lumbar diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) of the L5-S1 IVD before, and during, the application of lumbar traction. DESIGN Case series, repeated measures. METHODS A static traction load of ∼50% of body-weight was applied to the low back using a novel "MRI-safe" apparatus. DWI of the lumbar spine was performed prior to, and during the application of the traction load. RESULTS Participants were currently asymptomatic and included a young adult group (n = 18) and a middle-aged group (n = 15). The young adult group had a non-significant 2.2% increase in ADC (mean change = 0.03 × 10-3 mm2/s, SD = 0.24, 95% CI = -0.09, 0.15). The ADC for the middle-aged group significantly increased by 20% (mean change of 0.18 × 10-3 mm2/s, SD = 0.19; 95% CI = 0.07, 0.28; p = 0.003; effect size = 0.95). There was an inverse relationship between the ADC obtained before traction and the percent increase in ADC that was measured during traction. CONCLUSION Static traction was associated with an increase in diffusion of water within the L5-S1 IVDs of middle-age individuals, but not in young adults, suggesting age-related differences in the diffusion response. Further study is needed to assess the relationship between these findings and the symptoms of back pain. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike H Mitchell
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, 106 Smith Fieldhouse, Provo, UT, 84602, USA.
| | - Paul F Beattie
- Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy, Department of Exercise Science, Arnold School of Public Health, 1300 Wheat St., University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Jennifer Bowden
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, 106 Smith Fieldhouse, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Robert Larson
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, 106 Smith Fieldhouse, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Haonan Wang
- Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, 459 Clyde Building, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
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Mitchell UH, Helgeson K, Mintken P. Physiological effects of physical therapy interventions on lumbar intervertebral discs: A systematic review. Physiother Theory Pract 2017; 33:695-705. [PMID: 28715273 DOI: 10.1080/09593985.2017.1345026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CONTEXT The use of physical therapy has been recommended in the treatment of low back pain based on primarily mechanical and neurophysiological effects. Recent studies have measured the physiological effects of physical therapy interventions, including manual therapy and traction, on the intervertebral discs (IVD), and these findings may have implications for the long-term management or even prevention of low back pain. PURPOSE The objective of this systematic review is to investigate the literature regarding possible physiological effects of physical therapy interventions on the intervertebral disc (IVD). STUDY DESIGN Systematic Review. METHODS A literature search of published articles through December 2014 resulted in the retrieval of 8 clinical studies assessing the influence of physical therapy interventions on the physiology of the IVD. RESULTS Three studies, including two using animal models, investigated the effects of 30-minute intermittent traction on disc height. One in vivo animal study and two studies using human subjects assessed changes of disc height associated with static traction. Three studies investigated the effects of lumbar spine manipulation and mobilization on changes in water diffusion within the IVD. All studies confirmed, either directly or indirectly, that their respective intervention influenced disc physiology primarily through water flow. CONCLUSION Physical therapy interventions may have an effect on the physiology of the IVD, primarily through water diffusion and molecular transport, which are important for the health of the IVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike H Mitchell
- a Department of Exercise Sciences , Brigham Young University , Provo , UT , USA
| | - Kevin Helgeson
- b Department of Physical Therapy, Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions , Provo , UT , USA
| | - Paul Mintken
- c Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado School of Medicine , Aurora , CO , USA
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Tissue loading created during spinal manipulation in comparison to loading created by passive spinal movements. Sci Rep 2016; 6:38107. [PMID: 27905508 PMCID: PMC5131487 DOI: 10.1038/srep38107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 11/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) creates health benefits for some while for others, no benefit or even adverse events. Understanding these differential responses is important to optimize patient care and safety. Toward this, characterizing how loads created by SMT relate to those created by typical motions is fundamental. Using robotic testing, it is now possible to make these comparisons to determine if SMT generates unique loading scenarios. In 12 porcine cadavers, SMT and passive motions were applied to the L3/L4 segment and the resulting kinematics tracked. The L3/L4 segment was removed, mounted in a parallel robot and kinematics of SMT and passive movements replayed robotically. The resulting forces experienced by L3/L4 were collected. Overall, SMT created both significantly greater and smaller loads compared to passive motions, with SMT generating greater anterioposterior peak force (the direction of force application) compared to all passive motions. In some comparisons, SMT did not create significantly different loads in the intact specimen, but did so in specific spinal tissues. Despite methodological differences between studies, SMT forces and loading rates fell below published injury values. Future studies are warranted to understand if loading scenarios unique to SMT confer its differential therapeutic effects.
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Jordon MK, Beattie PF, D'Urso S, Scriven S. Spinal manipulation does not affect pressure pain thresholds in the absence of neuromodulators: a randomized controlled trial. J Man Manip Ther 2016; 25:172-181. [PMID: 28912629 DOI: 10.1080/10669817.2016.1230352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Measurement of pressure pain threshold (PPT) is a way to determine one of the many potential treatment effects of spinal manipulative therapy. OBJECTIVE To determine how multiple spinal manipulations administered in a single-session affected PPTs at local and distal sites in asymptomatic individuals. METHODS Participants were randomly assigned into one of three groups: Group one (n = 18) received a lumbar manipulation followed by a cervical manipulation. Group two (n = 17) received a cervical manipulation followed by a lumbar manipulation. The control group (n = 19) received two bouts of five minutes of rest. At baseline and after each intervention or rest period, each participant's PPTs were obtained using a handheld algometer. The PPTs were tested bilaterally over the lateral epicondyles of the humerus and over the mid-bellies of the upper trapezius, lumbar paraspinal, and the tibialis anterior muscles. This study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, and its Identifier is NCT02828501. RESULTS Repeated-measures ANOVAs and Kruskal-Wallis tests showed no significant within- or between-group differences in PPT. Within-group effect sizes in the changes of PPT ranged from -.48 at the left paraspinal muscles to .24 at the left lateral humeral epicondyle. Statistical power to detect significant differences at α of 0.05 was calculated to be 0.94. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that in young adults who do not have current or recent symptoms of spinal pain, multiple within-session treatments of cervical and lumbar spinal manipulation fail to influence PPTs. Changes in PPT that are observed in symptomatic individuals are likely to be primarily influenced by pain-related neuromodulators rather than by an isolated, mechanical effect of spinal manipulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max K Jordon
- Department of Exercise Science, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Paul F Beattie
- Department of Exercise Science, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Sarah D'Urso
- Department of Exercise Science, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Sarah Scriven
- Department of Exercise Science, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
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Beattie PF, Silfies SP, Jordon M. The evolving role of physical therapists in the long-term management of chronic low back pain: longitudinal care using assisted self-management strategies. Braz J Phys Ther 2016; 20:580-591. [PMID: 28001268 PMCID: PMC5176195 DOI: 10.1590/bjpt-rbf.2014.0180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2016] [Accepted: 04/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Longitudinal studies have shown that the symptoms of chronic low back pain (CLBP) will follow an episodic trajectory characterized by periods of high and low pain intensity that can persist for many years. There is a growing belief that the contemporary approach of limiting physical therapy to short, but intense courses of treatment for (CLBP) may be sub-optimal because these limited “windows” of clinical care are not congruent with the natural history of this condition. Recent research has suggested that people with CLBP undergo substantial, and individualized long-term variations in the neural processing of nociception over time. This has led to the concept of a “unique biosignature of pain” that may explain much of the variation in a person’s clinical picture. These and other findings have led to the reconceptualization of CLBP as an individualized, and continually evolving condition that may be more suitably managed by empowering the patient toward self-management strategies that can be modified as needed over time by the PT. Objectives The purpose of this Master Class Paper is to describe an emerging approach for the treatment of CLBP that emphasizes the formation of a long-term therapeutic alliance between the patient and the PT with an emphasis on individualized, patient-preferred approaches for activity-based self-management as an alternative to the contemporary approach of short, intense episodes of care directed toward pain reduction. Conclusion Longitudinal care using assisted self-management strategies is more congruent with the natural history of CLBP than are traditional approaches for PT intervention. This approach may empower patients to undergo lifestyle changes that will favorably influence long-term outcomes; however additional research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul F Beattie
- Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy, Department of Exercise Science, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Sheri P Silfies
- Department of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Sciences, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Max Jordon
- Physical Therapist, Mobility Research Clinic, Richland-Palmetto Health, Columbia, SC, USA
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Do participants with low back pain who respond to spinal manipulative therapy differ biomechanically from nonresponders, untreated controls or asymptomatic controls? Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2015; 40:1329-37. [PMID: 26020851 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0000000000000981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Nonrandomized controlled study. OBJECTIVE To determine whether patients with low back pain (LBP) who respond to spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) differ biomechanically from nonresponders, untreated controls or asymptomatic controls. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Some but not all patients with LBP report improvement in function after SMT. When compared with nonresponders, studies suggest that SMT responders demonstrate significant changes in spinal stiffness, muscle contraction, and disc diffusion. Unfortunately, the significance of these observations remains uncertain given methodological differences between studies including a lack of controls. METHODS Participants with LBP and asymptomatic controls attended 3 sessions for 7 days. On sessions 1 and 2, participants with LBP received SMT (+LBP/+SMT, n = 32) whereas asymptomatic controls did not (-LBP/-SMT, n = 57). In these sessions, spinal stiffness and multifidus thickness ratios were obtained before and after SMT and on day 7. Apparent diffusion coefficients from lumbar discs were obtained from +LBP/+SMT participants before and after SMT on session 1 and from an LBP control group that did not receive SMT (+LBP/-SMT, n = 16). +LBP/+SMT participants were dichotomized as responders/nonresponders on the basis of self-reported disability on day 7. A repeated measures analysis of covariance was used to compare apparent diffusion coefficients among responders, nonresponders, and +LBP/-SMT subjects, as well as spinal stiffness or multifidus thickness ratio among responders, nonresponders, and -LBP/-SMT subjects. RESULTS After the first SMT, SMT responders displayed statistically significant decreases in spinal stiffness and increases in multifidus thickness ratio sustained for more than 7 days; these findings were not observed in other groups. Similarly, only SMT responders displayed significant post-SMT improvement in apparent diffusion coefficients. CONCLUSION Those reporting post-SMT improvement in disability demonstrated simultaneous changes between self-reported and objective measures of spinal function. This coherence did not exist for asymptomatic controls or no-treatment controls. These data imply that SMT impacts biomechanical characteristics within SMT responders not present in all patients with LBP. This work provides a foundation to investigate the heterogeneous nature of LBP, mechanisms underlying differential therapeutic response, and the biomechanical and imaging characteristics defining responders at baseline. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 3.
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Abstract
These are exciting times for physical therapists who treat people with chronic low back pain (CLBP). Many of the mysteries of this condition are starting to be revealed, and it appears that major breakthroughs are on the way. Advances in neuroimaging, coupled with increased understanding of the molecular and submolecular events associated with the symptoms of back pain, are helping us reconceptualize the etiologies and mechanisms of this condition. The result of these advances is that physical therapists now have a wide range of potential "treatment packages" that can include patient education, manual therapy, and a wide variety of exercise options for people with CLBP. The question is, "How can long-term, self-management programs become more effective?"
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