Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics
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J Manipulative Physiol Ther · Mar 2007
Clinical TrialInfluence of posture on the range of axial rotation and coupled lateral flexion of the thoracic spine.
This study examines the influence of posture on the range of axial rotation of the thorax and the range and direction of the coupled lateral flexion. ⋯ The ranges and patterns of coupled motion of the thorax appear to be strongly influenced by the posture from which the movement is initiated. This has important implications in relation to the interpretation of clinical tests of thoracic motion and in consideration of mechanisms of development of thoracic pain disorders.
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J Manipulative Physiol Ther · Feb 2007
Magnetic resonance imaging findings as predictors of clinical outcome in patients with sciatica receiving active conservative treatment.
The aims of this study were to investigate the possible prognostic value of disk-related magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in relation to recovery at 14 months in patients with severe sciatica, and whether improvement of disk herniation and/or nerve root compromise is concurrent with recovery. ⋯ In patients with sciatica receiving active conservative treatment, broad-based protrusions and extrusions at baseline were positive predictors of definite recovery at 14 months. However, at 14 months the MRI-defined improvement of disk herniations and nerve root compromise was not correlated with definite recovery.
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J Manipulative Physiol Ther · Feb 2007
Comparative StudyHow important is research-based practice to chiropractors and massage therapists?
This study evaluated the perceptions of research, frequency of use of research findings in practice, and the level of research skills of chiropractors and massage therapists in Canada. Predictors of application of research findings in clinical practice were also explored. ⋯ It appears that in Canada neither chiropractors nor massage therapists consistently apply research in practice, which may result from a lack of research education and research skills. The differences between the 2 professional groups may be attributed to the chiropractic profession's relatively more research-focused professional training. Strategies to encourage greater research uptake and evidence-based behavior by practitioners include professional association incentives, such as education credits or practitioner cooperatives that would provide time and support for research.
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J Manipulative Physiol Ther · Feb 2007
Inter- and intraexaminer reliability in identifying and classifying degenerative marrow (Modic) changes on lumbar spine magnetic resonance scans.
Signal intensity changes noted on magnetic resonance imaging scans in degenerated disks and adjacent bone marrow have been described and labeled "Modic" changes. Three types are identified, with type 1 being linked to low back pain. This study reports on the reliability of identifying and categorizing Modic marrow changes as would be done in the normal course of clinical practice. ⋯ The Modic classification system shows moderate to almost perfect inter- and intraexaminer reliability in this study, simulating the methods of diagnosis used in clinical/radiological practice. The results of studies using the Modic system before investigations of its reliability can be viewed with more confidence, and future studies can continue to evaluate the link with patient symptoms and treatment outcomes.
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J Manipulative Physiol Ther · Jan 2007
Randomized Controlled Trial Controlled Clinical TrialDynamic surface electromyographic responses in chronic low back pain treated by traditional bone setting and conventional physical therapy.
This study compared the dynamic surface electromyographic (EMG) activities of back muscles and pain before and after traditional bone setting and physical therapy. ⋯ Both treatments seem to have a positive influence on back muscle function by improving muscle symmetry; however, the treatments had no effect on the flexion-relaxation phenomenon after 1 month. Active back exercise at home together with rehabilitation treatments might be effective and improve function for patients with chronic low back pain.