Abstract
M.Tech. (Chiropractic)
Purpose: This study aimed to compare cervical manipulative therapy, a stretching regime and a combination of cervical manipulative therapy and a stretching regime in the treatment of cervical facet dysfunction in Primary School Teachers with regards to a Neck Disability Index questionnaire and cervical spine range of motion.
Method: This study was a comparative study that consisted of three groups of ten participants each. The participants were primary school teachers between the ages of twenty-two and forty. The potential participants were examined and accepted into the study according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria for the study. The method of treatment that was administered was determined by group allocation. Group 1 received Cervical Manipulative Therapy only, Group 2 received a stretching regime only and Group 3 received a combination of Cervical Manipulative Therapy and a stretching regime.
Procedure: Six treatment sessions took place over a period of three weeks with a seventh and final consultation for the purpose of subjective and objective data capturing. Subjective data was obtained by means of a Neck Disability Index which was completed at the first, fourth and seventh consultations. Objective measurements were obtained using the Cervical Range of Motion Device, readings were taken at the first, fourth and seventh consultations. The participants received the allocated method of treatment pertaining to their group at each consultation, except the seventh consultation. The subjective and objective data collected was analysed by a statistician.
Results: A clinically significant improvement was noted in both the subjective NDI score and objective CROM measurements for the three groups over the three week period. Group 1 showed a clinically significant improvement in Lifting and Recreation scores of the NDI, Group 2 revealed a clinical improvement in the Concentration and Work scores of...