Abstract
Aim: The aim of the study was to determine the trends of qEEG changes caused by cervical manipulation for the duration of 60 minutes. This could theoretically stimulate further related research and thus redefine the existing limits of chiropractic treatment of the central nervous system by influencing brain wave activity.
Method: A descriptive design was used to attempt to track trends on qEEG readings before and after a chiropractic manipulation for the duration of 60 minutes. The EEG equipment that was used for the trials was a MP 150 Biopac system. On arrival at the Chiropractic clinic all participants were assessed as new patients and then randomly divided into two groups of 5. Once this was completed the EEG cap was placed on the participants head and the first of six recordings was started. Subsequent to the completion of the first recording, the participants’ cervical spine was manipulated/ sham manipulated (control group). The remainder of the recordings then took place at 15 minute intervals.
Results: There was a definitive difference in the readings pre- and post-manipulation for both groups, across all three brain lobes. Group A appeared to have more consistent predictable changes. Group B appeared to have haphazard changes. Some participants showed more pronounced changes in brain wave activity than others.
Conclusion: The definitive changes pre- and post- manipulation readings demonstrate that there are apparent variations in the qEEG readings post cervical manipulation.
These variations either increased or decreased across one or multiple lobes, either immediately post manipulation or during the 60 minute time intervals. However, this topic needs further research to determine the significance of the effect of chiropractic manipulation.