Long-term stability of reducing cervical kyphosis via Chiropractic Biophysics^® extension traction procedures: a case...

[Purpose] To present a case series of five patients who presented with a cervical kyphosis and chronic neck pain who were treated with Chiropractic Biophysics^® (CBP^®) extension traction as part of a multimodal program. [Participants and Methods] Five patients with cervical kyphosis and chronic neck pain were randomly selected from files from one clinic. All patients refrained from follow-up treatments after the initial trial of corrective care of CBP used to improve the cervical lordosis. Treatment included extension traction to the neck as well as mirror image^® extension exercises and spinal manipulative therapy. The patients were treated from 2-4 months and follow-up assessment was performed at least 1 year later. [Results] After treatment the patients demonstrated an average increase in global lordosis of 24° and a decrease in the regional cervical kyphosis of 18°. The patients experienced a 5-point improved pain intensity and 24% improved disability. Follow-up of over a year demonstrated a 10° loss of original lordosis correction but no change in disability. [Conclusion] In this randomly selected series, CBP rehabilitation protocols were successful at reducing gross cervical kyphosis, however, a regression in correction occurred supporting the need for further maintenance treatments required to stabilize the original correction.