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Changes in electrical activity in muscles resulting from chiropractic adjustment: a pilot study.
1New York Chiropractic College, Research Division, Glen Head 11545.
Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics
|December 1, 1987
Summary
Chiropractic adjustments significantly reduce back muscle tension. This study found a 25% decrease in electrical muscle activity after adjustments, indicating muscle relaxation and improved spinal balance.
Area of Science:
- Chiropractic care
- Neuroscience
- Musculoskeletal system
Background:
- Hypomobile vertebrae can be maintained by erector spinae muscle tension.
- Chiropractic adjustments aim to restore vertebral mobility.
- Measuring electromyographic activity can quantify muscle tension changes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the immediate effects of chiropractic adjustment on paraspinal muscle electrical activity.
- To determine if chiropractic adjustments reduce muscle tension associated with hypomobile vertebrae.
- To assess changes in muscle activity balance following spinal manipulation.
Main Methods:
- Subjects with hypomobile vertebrae identified via motion palpation.
- Surface electrodes placed on trapezius and erector spinae muscle groups (thoracic and lumbar).
- Full spine toggle recoil thrust adjustments administered, followed by post-adjustment electromyographic readings.
Main Results:
- A statistically significant average reduction of 25% in muscle electrical activity was observed in the treatment group (n=20).
- No significant muscle activity reduction was noted in the control group (n=14).
- Significant improvements in side-to-side muscle activity imbalances were recorded post-adjustment.
Conclusions:
- Chiropractic adjustment effectively reduces paraspinal muscle electrical activity.
- Spinal manipulation can alleviate muscle tension linked to vertebral hypomobility.
- Chiropractic care demonstrates potential for improving neuromuscular balance.