Abstract
M.Tech.
This study aimed to compare either separately or in combination the effects of chiropractic manipulation and ergonomic advice on cervical and thoracic pain and discomfort in those working at computer workstations or in desk bound professions. Three groups were chosen. Group A was treated with chiropractic manipulation only. Group B received ergonomic advice only, which they were required to adhere to for the duration of the study. Group C received a combination of chiropractic manipulation and ergonomic advice. Subjects within each group were attended to over a period of three weeks.
It was anticipated that a combination of the therapies would yield the most favorable results in comparison to either of the therapies alone.
The study was a clinical trial involving three groups of ten subjects of women only. Volunteers responded to posters placed throughout the University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein campus and at companies in and around Johannesburg.
Objective data was collected using the Cervical Range of Motion (CROM) Instrument and the Digital Inclinometer to measure cervical and thoracic spine range of motion. Subjective data was obtained by participants recording their progress on the Vernon Mior Neck Pain and Disability Index and the Numerical Pain Rating Scale. Both the objective and subjective data was collected prior to the commencement of the first, third and sixth treatments for Groups A and C and at the first, second and third consultations for Group B.
All the collected data was statistically analyzed using the One Way and the Repeated Analysis of Variance tests.
Data obtained from cervical and thoracic ranges of motion testing showed some significant differences for the three groups throughout the treatment however no
consistent pattern was revealed to determine which treatment group was favored. Statistical analysis of the data obtained from the questionnaires indicated that all three groups responded with statistical significance to the treatments. All three groups responded with a reduction in the subject‟s perceived pain and disability and the Combination group responded most favorably followed by the Advice/Ergonomics group and then lastly the Adjustment group.
This study concluded that a combination of the therapies resulted in a quicker response to treatment with regards to the subject‟s pain and disability. All of the three treatments however provided some improvement therefore also reiterating the effects of ergonomic advice and chiropractic treatment alone.