Context is Complex: Challenges and opportunities addressing contextual factors in manual therapy mechanisms research

Mechanistic studies on manual therapy (MT) have potential to allow better understanding of 'why' and 'how' MT interventions provide an effect. Contextual factors (CF) include the multitude of intrinsic and extrinsic inputs outside of the specific intervention which influence response. CFs must be accounted for within both clinical and mechanistic trials. The influence of CFs provides several challenges and opportunities which are outlined within this commentary. Researchers should consider the specific purpose of their research when developing mechanistic trials to establish if controlling versus recording CF is warranted based on their aim(s).