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Global 3D head-trunk kinematics during cervical spine manipulation at different levels
1Research Unit for Manual Therapies, Free University of Brussels, 50 Avenue Franklin Roosevelt CP168, 1050 Brussels, Belgium. pklein@ulb.ac.be
Clinical Biomechanics (Bristol, Avon)
|October 7, 2003
Summary
Spinal manipulative therapy head and trunk motion during manipulation did not exceed active ranges. Rotation amplitudes, often a concern, were lower than during active motion, suggesting safety.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Spinal Manipulative Therapy
- Cervical Spine Kinematics
Background:
- Spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) is a common treatment for spinal disorders.
- Potential complications of SMT are linked to applied force and motion range.
- Limited data exists on cervical spine motion during SMT.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the three-dimensional kinematics of the head relative to the upper trunk during SMT.
- To investigate motion during manipulation at two cervical levels (C3, C5) and on both sides.
Main Methods:
- Descriptive study on 14 asymptomatic volunteers.
- Three-dimensional electrogoniometry measured head-trunk motion.
- Manipulation performed by a single practitioner on C3 and C5 levels, bilaterally.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in 3D motion ranges based on side or spinal level manipulated.
- Mean ranges: 30° axial rotation, 46° lateral bending, 2° flexion.
- Motion ranges were generally below reported active ranges of motion.
Conclusions:
- Maximal head-trunk motion during this type of manipulation does not exceed physiological active range.
- Rotational amplitudes, a risk factor, were lower than during active motion.
- Results, from one practitioner, should be generalized with caution.