Forces generated during spinal manipulative therapy of the cervical spine: a pilot study.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the forces imparted to the cervical spine using direct sampling methods during a clinical episode of spinal manipulative therapy.


METHODS
Quantitative study.


METHODS
Human Performance Laboratory, University of Calgary.


METHODS
Two doctor/patient pairs. Patients were selected by the treating chiropractors from their existing patients pools.


METHODS
SMT to the cervical spine (toggle method) on three separate occasions over a 2-wk period. The clinical relevancy of the treatment was assessed via before and after measures of tissue compliance.


METHODS
a) Forces during manipulation: preload and peak forces. b) Duration of applied forces.


RESULTS
a) Mean peak force = 117.7 N (+/- 15.6 N). b) Mean duration of force = 101.7 msec (+/- 14.7 msec).


CONCLUSIONS
The forces obtained with direct sampling methods compare favorably to previous measurements obtained from indirect sampling techniques, yet the force duration times are smaller (faster) using the direct method.
Kawchuk
G N
GN
Faculty of Physical Education, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Herzog
W
W
Hasler
E M
EM
D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D002574:Cervical Vertebrae / Q000502:physiology*; D002684:Chiropractic; D003187:Compliance; D006801:Humans; D008349:Manipulation, Orthopedic; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011312:Pressure