Abstract
M.Tech.
Purpose: This study aims to determine whether adjusting the area of nerve root
supply, or adjusting the attachment site of the latissimus dorsi muscle, will have an
effect on the latissimus dorsi muscle and to which extend, with regards to strength
and electromyographic (sEMG) activity. These effects were evaluated by measuring
the latissimus dorsi .muscle strength using a Jamar dynamometer as well as sEMG
readings of the latissimus dorsi muscle using a Neuro Trac ETS unit. Readings were
taken prior to treatment on the first, third, and fifth consultations.
Method: Forty five participants who met the inclusion criteria were stratified in
number and gender between three groups of equal size (15 participants each). Group
1 received lower cervical adjustments (C5 - C7), group 2 received lower thoracic and
lumbar adjustments (T6 - L5) and group 3 received detuned ultrasound therapy on
the latissimus dorsi muscle. Group three served as the control group. Participants were
treated four times out of a total of five sessions, over a maximum three week period
Procedure: Objective data was collected at the beginning of the first and third
session, as well as on the fifth consultation by means of a Jamar dynamometer and a
Neuro Trac ETS unit in order to assess the functionality of the latissimus dorsi
muscle. Analysis of collected data was performed by a statistician.
Results: Statistically significant improvement in the dynamometry readings of both
the experimental groups were noted when compared to that of the control group. The
results of the sEMG activity were variable.
Conclusion: The results show that adjusting the area of nerve root supply as well as
adjusting the attachment site of the latissimus dorsi muscle are effective treatment
protocols (as demonstrated statistically) in increasing strength of the latissimus dorsi
muscle. The results suggest that adjusting the attachment site of the latissimus dorsi
muscle is most effective in increasing the strength of the latissimus dorsi muscle. The
results of the sEMG activity were variable and there were no evidence supporting the
effectiveness of adjusting the area of nerve root supply versus adjusting the
attachment site ofthe latissimus dorsi muscle on sEMG activity.