Abstract
M.Tech. (Chiropractic)
This study was conducted in order to compare the effectiveness of the lumbar
spine manipulation versus the foot manipulation/mobilisation for people suffering
with chronic low back pain.
This research aims to compare the effects of lumbar spine manipulation alone,
foot manipulatioil/mobilisation alone or the combination of the two in people
suffering with chronic low back pain.
Candidates for the study were recruited from the local surrounding area, and
through information pamphlets distributed through the Technikon Witwatersrand
Doornfontein. The candidates were asked to participate in the study, which was
held at the Technikon Witwatersrand Chiropractic day clinic. Only -those
candidates that conformed to the selection criteria were allowed to participate in
the study. The candidates were assigned to one of three groups. Eac.h group had
ten candidates. Group 1 received lumbar spine manipulation alone. Group 2
received foot manipulation/mobilisation alone. Group 3 candidates received
lumbar spine manipulation and foot manipulatioil/mobilisation.
Subjective data was collected using the Numerical Pain Rating Scale 101 and the
Oswestry Low Back Pain and Disability Questionnaire.
Objective data was collected using the electronic inclinometer to measure lumbar
spine range of motion in flexion, extension, right and left lateral flexion and right
and left anterior rotation. The paired Hest was used for statistical analysis, where
a statistically significant difference was found; the Student-Newman-Keuls test
was performed to identify which statistically significant difference between the
groups was found.
The results of this study indicate that lumbar spine manipulation alone would
appear to have responded better in terms of lumbar spine range ofmotion...