Abstract
M.Tech. (Chiropractic)
Background: It has been stated that a chiropractic manipulation does indeed have an effect on the central nervous system beyond the dorsal horn of the spinal cord and may have an effect on these measurements. It is known that chiropractic manipulation is an effective treatment method for chronic neck pain. Research sugests that a chiropractic manipulation has a direct influence on the sensorymotor intergration within the central nervous system. It is known that a chiropractic manipulation delivered to the cervical spine has a positive effect on neck pain. It is also mentioned that there is a need for further research to understand the neurological effects of chiropractic manipulation on brainwave activity.
Aim: The aim of is this study was to compile a case series describing the medium-term effects of chiropractic manipulation on qEEG in patients with chronic neck pain. This research has the potential to allow further research to be done in this field. This research may redefine the limits of chiropractic treatment on the nervous system.
Methodology: A descriptive design following a case series was best suited for this study. This allowed to track changes of the EEG recordings before and after a chiropractic manipulation over a 2-week time period with 4 treatments at biweekly intervals. A numerical pain rating scale was used to ascertain each participant’s pain at the initial and last visit. The qEEG was measured using a MP150 Biopac System.
Results: All 10 cases were described, with all showing changes in qEEG readings post treatment as well as over the study of varying amount. All participants also demonstrated changes in the numerical pain scale. Each participant displayed a decrease in pain with some participants indicating full resolution of symptoms.
Conclusion: There appears to be a change in pre- and immediately post-manipulation readings as well as reduction in pain. This demonstrates an effect on the medium-term qEEG readings. Further research into this topic however is required to determine the meaning of this change.