One Spinal Manipulation Session Does Not Affect Static, Quasi-Static and Dynamic Balance or Pressure Pain Threshold
Murilo Rafael Gonçalves Moreira1,2,3, Henrique Prado Rodrigues1,2, Iully Tiyoko Rebellato Suguiura1,2
1Universidade Estadual do Oeste do Paraná, Graduate Program in Biosciences and Health, Cascavel, Paraná, Brazil.
Musculoskeletal Care
|March 10, 2026
Summary
A single spinal manipulation session did not significantly improve static, quasi-static, or dynamic balance in individuals with chronic low back pain. Further research is needed to determine if multiple sessions could yield different results for balance and pain.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Science
- Clinical Research
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a widespread and debilitating condition with significant societal and economic impacts.
- Impaired physical function and balance are common in individuals with CLBP.
- The effectiveness of manipulative techniques for CLBP-related balance deficits requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of spinal manipulation on static, quasi-static, and dynamic balance in individuals with CLBP.
- To compare the effects of spinal manipulation against a placebo in a randomized controlled trial.
- To assess changes in balance parameters immediately, 24 hours, and 1 week post-intervention.
Main Methods:
- A randomized, controlled, longitudinal clinical trial involving 30 participants with CLBP (aged 18-59).
- Participants were assigned to either a global spinal manipulation group or a placebo group.
- Balance was assessed using the modified Sensory Organization Test (SOT) and the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT).
Main Results:
- A single session of spinal manipulation did not lead to statistically significant improvements in any measured balance variables.
- No significant differences in balance parameters were observed between the experimental and placebo groups.
- Follow-up assessments at 24 hours and 1 week post-intervention also showed no significant changes.
Conclusions:
- A single session of spinal manipulation is insufficient to produce measurable improvements in balance for individuals with chronic low back pain.
- Further research should explore the potential effects of multiple or prolonged spinal manipulation interventions on balance in CLBP populations.
- The findings highlight the need for evidence-based therapeutic strategies for managing balance deficits associated with chronic low back pain.
