Abstract
M.Tech. (Chiropractic)
Purpose: This study aims to ascertain the extent Chiropractic manipulative therapy
increases ROM beyond the joint-separation induced ROM initially experienced via the
cavitation phenomenon in the absence of neck pain.
Method: Sixty participants between eighteen and thirty-five years of age, thirty male and
thirty female whom met the inclusion of no neck pain and perceived decreased ROM were
selected for participation. There was a single group with each participant‟s pre-adjustment
readings acting as a baseline.
Procedure: Participants were assessed for hypomobility and joint dysfunction. Those who
met the inclusion criteria underwent a detailed history, physical and cervical spine regional
examination on the initial consult. A pre-adjustment objective measurement was acquired
using a cervical spine range of motion (CROM) device.
Once the consent form was signed participants received Chiropractic cervical spine
manipulative therapy to the area/s of the cervical spine found to be restricted on motion
palpation by the researcher. Post-adjustment objective measurements were taken at one,
twenty, forty and sixty minutes using the CROM device. Participants were required to
remain in the researcher‟s examination room for 60 minutes post-adjustment with
continuation of regular day to day activity and no strenuous activity during the twenty-four
hour period of the study. The participant was required to return for a single follow up visit
within a time frame of twenty-four hours of the initial visit.
The follow-up visit required no treatment. At twenty-four hours, the participant was
objectively measured for cervical spine ROM using the CROM. The results were based on
objective data in the form of cervical spine ROM measurements.
Results: Clinical analysis of the percentage change in cervical spine ROM values revealed
that clinically and statistically significant improvement was seen in all ranges of motion
post-adjustment. General consensus showed that a peak value of improved ROM was
seen post-adjustment at the one minute interval for all ranges of motion except flexion.
Flexion demonstrated a peak ROM value at the twenty minute post-adjustment interval.