Abstract
Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of
chiropractic manipulative therapy versus foam rolling in the treatment of
rowers suffering with low back pain.
Method: The study comprised of 30 rowers between the ages of 16 and 30
years of age, who have had a history of low back pain. The participants were
separated into three groups. Group 1 had received a combination of
chiropractic manipulative therapy (CMT) and foam rolling therapy. Group 2
had received foam rolling therapy only. Group 3 had received CMT only.
Participants attended a total of 7 visits over a 3 week period which consisted
of 6 treatments and a 7th (final) visit where only measurements had be taken.
Objective measurements were performed by a digital inclinometer to
measure lumbar spine range of motion (ROM). Subjective measurements
were taken in the form of two questionnaires, the numerical pain rating scale
(NPRS) and the Oswestry low back pain and disability questionnaire (ODI).
The data was recorded by the researcher and once the trials were
completed, the results were sent to STATKON to be analysed.
Results: The intra-group analysis of ROM revealed that group 3 had a
greater improvement in lumbar spine ROM, especially in extension and
rotation. Inter-group analysis of ROM revealed that group 1 had a significant
improvement compared to the other groups. Intra-group analysis of the
NPRS results revealed that all 3 group had an effect on pain levels, on intergroup
analysis it was seen that group 1 had the greatest decrease in pain
levels. Intra-group analysis the ODI results revealed that there was a
decrease in disability across the 3 groups, however on inter-group analysis
there was no statistical difference between the groups to determine which
treatment is more beneficial.
Conclusion: There is evidence that both CMT and foam rolling therapy has
positive effects on ROM, pain and disability. Even though this study...
M.Tech. (Chiropractic)