The effect of chiropractic spinal manipulative therapy on salivary cortisol levels.
OBJECTIVE
This study examines the effect of chiropractic spinal manipulative therapy on salivary cortisol levels.


METHODS
Prospective case series over six weeks duration. The trial consisted of establishment of each individual's baseline cortisol level, a two week treatment period (4 treatments), and a two week post treatment period.


METHODS
Macquarie University Chiropractic Research Centre.


METHODS
Nine subjects (six male, three female), employed in a large corporation, volunteered to the trial of spinal manipulative therapy.


METHODS
Saliva samples were analysed using an Amerlex Radioimmunoassay Kit to determine the cortisol concentrations present.


RESULTS
Statistical interpretation, after exclusion of an apparent outlying subject, revealed results of statistical significance (p<0.001) for reduction of salivary cortisol over the complete five week study. In addition, there was no apparent alteration in salivary cortisol levels immediately preceding and 15 minutes after spinal manipulative therapy.


CONCLUSIONS
The initial evidence is inconclusive, however, the potential relationship demands further investigation. Additional research is necessary in measuring the physiological effects of Chiropractic spinal manipulative therapy. This method is currently being used in a larger randomised controlled trial.
Tuchin
P J
PJ