Abstract
M.Tech. (Chiropractic)
Purpose: This study was undertaken in order to demonstrate the effects of static
magnetic field therapy on acupuncture points in the treatment of those suffering
from mechanical neck pain. Isolated spinal manipulative therapy of the cervical
spine was compared to spinal manipulative therapy of the cervical spine in
conjunction with magnetic field therapy on acupuncture points using both
objective and subjective measurements.
Before the execution of this study, it was hypothesised that both treatment
protocols would be effective in the treatment of mechanical neck pain, although
the combined therapy would be more effective.
Method: Patients were recruited by way of advertisements placed in and around
the University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein campus and their health clinic.
Thirty patients with mechanical neck pain were recruited and randomly divided
into two groups. Group one received manipulation to the affected joints of the
cervical spine and group two received manipulation to the cervical spine
combined with magnetic field therapy on acupuncture points.
Procedure: Each patient in each group attended six treatment sessions; three in
the first week and three in the second week. The Vernon Mior Neck Pain and
Disability Index and the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (subjective measurements)
were completed by each patient and the Cervical Range of Motion instrument
(objective measurements) was used to collect readings from each patient in both
the control and experimental groups, subjective and objective measurements were
taken before treatment one, three and six. Specific treatment protocols were then
adhered to.
Results: The results indicated that both treatment protocols were effective in
reducing mechanical neck pain although not one group was more effective than
the other. Both groups improved subjectively and objectively as they had cervical
spinal manipulation directed at joint dysfunction.
Conclusion: The experimental group who received spinal manipulative therapy to
correct joint dysfunction in conjunction with magnetic field therapy on
acupuncture points was not more effective than the control group who received
spinal manipulation only, in the treatment of mechanical neck pain.