Abstract
M.Tech. (Chiropractic)
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to put an objective reading to the amount of distal distraction needed prior to flexion when using flexion-distraction manual therapy.
STUDY DESIGN: This is a quantitative experimental and comparative study design. Participants were allocated into either the symptomatic group (Group A) or the asymptomatic group (Group B).
SETTING: University of Johannesburg Chiropractic Clinic, Johannesburg, South Africa
SUBJECTS: The sample size consists of 100 participants divided into two groups. One group consists of 50 asymptomatic participants and the other group of 50 symptomatic participants. Each participant underwent a once off examination and treatment.
METHODS: Participants were positioned in prone on the flexion distraction table. A bipolar electrode was placed over the lumbar paraspinals bilaterally at the L3 vertebral level. The lumbar segment of the table was then distracted distally in the shortest amounts possible inducing a stretch in the lumbar paraspinal musculature. The treatment table was then flexed to 11° with increasing amounts of distraction. Surface EMG values were recorded at rest and at the end point of distraction where the sEMG microvolt volt value reached one to five times the resting sEMG value. Increasing intervals of distraction of the lumbar segment was stopped when the sEMG value no longer increased within the therapeutic range. The amount of distraction between the lumbar and thoracic sections of the table at the end point of distraction was then recorded...