title: The effects of thoracic manipulation versus mobilization for chronic neck pain: a randomized controlled trial pilot study.
abstract: [Purpose] To investigate effects of thoracic manipulation versus mobilization on chronic neck pain. [Methods] Thirty-nine chronic neck pain subjects were randomly assigned to single level thoracic manipulation, single level thoracic mobilization, or a control group. The cervical range of motion (CROM) and pain ratings (using a visual analog scale: VAS) were measured before, immediately after and at a 24-hour follow-up. [Results] Thoracic manipulation significantly decreased VAS pain ratings and increased CROM in all directions in immediate and 24-hour follow-ups. The thoracic mobilization group significantly increased in CROM in most directions at immediate follow-up and right and left rotational directions at the 24-hour follow-up. Comparisons between groups revealed the CROM for the manipulation group to increase significantly more than for control subjects in most directions at immediate follow-up and flexion, left lateral flexion and left rotation at the 24-hour follow-up. The CROM for the thoracic mobilization group significantly increased in comparison to the control group in flexion at immediate follow-up and in flexion and left rotation at the 24-hour follow-up. [Conclusion] The study demonstrated reductions in VAS pain ratings and increases in CROM at immediate and 24-hour follow-ups from both single level thoracic spine manipulation and thoracic mobilization in chronic neck pain.
authors.affiliation: Physical Therapy Unit, Srinagarind Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University.
authors.forename: Thavatchai
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Suvarnnato
authors.forename: Rungthip
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Puntumetakul
authors.forename: David
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Kaber
authors.forename: Rose
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Boucaut
authors.forename: Yodchai
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Boonphakob
authors.forename: Preeda
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Arayawichanon
authors.forename: Uraiwan
authors.initials: U
authors.lastname: Chatchawan
keywords: Chronic neck pain; Single level thoracic manipulation; Single level thoracic mobilization