The effect of direction specific thoracic spine manipulation on the cervical spine: a randomized controlled trial

Objectives: To determine the difference on neck outcomes with directional manipulation to the thoracic spine. There is evidence that thoracic spine manipulation is effective in treating patients with neck pain. However, there is no research that determines if the assessment of directional hypomobility and the selection of thrust direction offer improved outcomes.

Methods: A total of 69 patients with cervical spine pain were randomly assigned to receive either a manipulation that was consistent with their thoracic spine motion loss (matched) or opposite their motion loss (unmatched). The patient was given care consistent with the orthopedic section guidelines for neck pain and the physical therapist’s clinical reasoning. Baseline outcome measures (NPRS, NDI, GROC) were taken and reassessed two days and two weeks after treatment.

Results: Both groups had positive results when pain, neck disability index, and global rating of change were assessed. There was no difference between the matched and unmatched groups.

Discussion: Directional manipulation of hypomobile thoracic spine segments may not be required to improved outcomes in patients with neck pain. Future studies should assess a variety of factors when determining the best available treatment, including manual therapy procedures, exercise, and patient selection.

Level of Evidence: 1b.     

A randomized clinical trial to compare the immediate effects of seated thoracic manipulation and targeted supine thoracic manipulation on cervical spine flexion range of motion and pain

Design:

Randomized clinical trial.

Objectives:

To determine the effectiveness of seated thoracic manipulation versus targeted supine thoracic manipulation on cervical spine pain and flexion range of motion (ROM). There is evidence that thoracic spine manipulation is an effective treatment for patients with cervical spine pain. This evidence includes a variety of techniques to manipulate the thoracic spine. Although each of them is effective, no research has compared techniques to determine which produces the best outcomes.

Methods:

A total of 39 patients with cervical spine pain were randomly assigned to either a seated thoracic manipulation or targeted supine thoracic manipulation group. Pain and flexion ROM measures were taken before and after the intervention.

Results:

Pain reduction (post-treatment–pre-treatment) was significantly greater in those patients receiving the targeted supine thoracic manipulation compared to the seated thoracic manipulation (P<0·05). Although not significant, we did observe greater improvement in flexion ROM in the targeted supine thoracic manipulation group. The results of this study indicate that a targeted supine thoracic manipulation may be more effective in reducing cervical spine pain and improving cervical flexion ROM than a seated thoracic manipulation. Future studies should include a variety of patients and physical therapists (PTs) to validate our findings.     

脊柱三扳法对早中期强直性脊柱炎胸腰椎活动的影响

目的探讨脊柱三扳法治疗早中期强直性脊柱炎(AS)的疗效。方法 60例AS早中期患者按照进入研究的顺序分为药物组(n=30)和手法组(n=30)。药物组口服柳氮磺胺吡啶和正清风痛宁缓释片;手法组在此基础上接受脊椎三扳手法。按自行研制AS调查表在治疗前和治疗后第1、3、6个月对两组患者进行随访。结果治疗3个月时,手法组的腰椎活动度和指-地距离优于药物组(P<0.05);治疗6个月时,手法组腰椎活动度、指-地距离、胸廓活动度和VAS评分均优于药物组(P<0.05)。结论脊柱三扳法可以改善早中期AS患者的胸腰椎活动范围。     

Mechanics of spinal joint manipulation in the thoracic and lumbar spine: a theoretical study of posteroanterior force techniques

Posteroanterior (PA) forces applied to the vertebrae are commonly used for the clinical assessment and treatment of vertebral column disorders. Three strategies for applying PA force in the thoracic and lumbar spine regions were studied. The components of the manipulative force which were directed along, and transverse to, the axis of the vertebra were calculated, and also the sagittal plane moment generated about the centre of the vertebra was determined. The three different strategies produced quite different loads on the vertebrae and all three strategies showed substantial variations across vertebral levels in at least one of the load components.     

Connective Tissue Manipulation: Towards a Scientific Rationale

Connective tissue manipulation (CTM) is a soft tissue manipulative technique which stretches connective tissue, restoring mobility at dermis/hypodermis and dermis/fascia interfaces and promoting remodelling of collagen. It is often described as a neural therapy because of its powerful reflex effects. Visible skin and connective tissue zones are stimulated to influence visceral and circulatory functions. This was demonstrated vividly by the German founder of CTM, Elizabeth Dicke, who found that pulling the tissues of her low back relieved her back pain, restored the circulation to her almost gangrenous leg, and reduced digestive problems.

Physiotherapists are often deterred from using CTM by the belief that it is underpinned by little in the way of sound scientific theory. This assumption is challenged in this paper. Research from several physiological fields is drawn together and evaluated in the light of observed effects of CTM and, where overlap occurs, traditional massage. The contribution of wide dynamic range neurones in lamina V of the spinal cord; the anatomy and physiology of segemental and suprasegmental autonomic reflexes; biomechanics of connective tissue; and the significance of the physiology of sympathetically-maintained pain to zone formation and clinical research, will be briefly used to justify the premise of the paper.

This is an extended version of a paper presented to the CSP Congress, September 1994.     

Physical treatments for headache: a structured review

BACKGROUND: Primary headache disorders, especially migraine, are commonly accompanied by neck pain or other symptoms. Because of this, physical therapy (PT) and other physical treatments are often prescribed. This review updates and synthesizes published clinical trial evidence, systematic reviews, and case series regarding the efficacy of selected physical modalities in the treatment of primary headache disorders. METHODS: The National Library of Medicine (MEDLINE), The Cochrane Library, and other sources of information were searched through June 2004 to identify clinical studies, systematic reviews, case series, or other information published in English that assessed the treatment of headache or migraine with chiropractic, osteopathic, PT, or massage interventions. RESULTS: PT is more effective than massage therapy or acupuncture for the treatment of TTH and appears to be most beneficial for patients with a high frequency of headache episodes. PT is most effective for the treatment of migraine when combined with other treatments such as thermal biofeedback, relaxation training, and exercise. Chiropractic manipulation demonstrated a trend toward benefit in the treatment of TTH, but evidence is weak. Chiropractic manipulation is probably more effective in the treatment of tension-type headache (TTH) than it is in the treatment of migraine. Evidence is lacking regarding the efficacy of these treatments in reducing headache frequency, intensity, duration, and disability in many commonly encountered clinical situations. Many of the published case series and controlled studies are of low quality. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS: Further studies of improved quality are necessary to more firmly establish the place of physical modalities in the treatment of primary headache disorders. With the exception of high velocity chiropractic manipulation of the neck, the treatments are unlikely to be physically dangerous, although the financial costs and lost treatment opportunity by prescribing potentially ineffective treatment may not be insignificant. In the absence of clear evidence regarding their role in treatment, physicians and patients are advised to make cautious and individualized judgments about the utility of physical treatments for headache management; in most cases, the use of these modalities should complement rather than supplant better-validated forms of therapy.     

Treatment of a female collegiate rower with costochondritis: a case report

Rib injuries are common in collegiate rowing. The purpose of this case report is to provide insight into examination, evaluation, and treatment of persistent costochondritis in an elite athlete as well as propose an explanation for chronic dysfunction. The case involved a 21 year old female collegiate rower with multiple episodes of costochondritis over a 1-year period of time. Symptoms were localized to the left third costosternal junction and bilaterally at the fourth costosternal junction with moderate swelling. Initial interventions were directed at the costosternal joint, but only mild, temporary relief of symptoms was attained. Reexamination findings included hypomobility of the upper thoracic spine, costovertebral joints, and lateral ribs. Interventions included postural exercises and manual therapies directed at the lateral and posterior rib structures to improve rib and thoracic spine mobility. Over a 3-week time period pain experienced throughout the day had subsided (visual analog scale – VAS 0/10). She was able to resume running and elliptical aerobic training with minimal discomfort (VAS 2/10) and began to reintegrate into collegiate rowing. Examination of the lateral ribs, cervical and thoracic spine should be part of the comprehensive evaluation of costochondritis. Addressing posterior hypomobility may have allowed for a more thorough recovery in this case study.     

Regional interdependence and manual therapy directed at the thoracic spine

Abstract

Thoracic spine manipulation is commonly used by physical therapists for the management of patients with upper quarter pain syndromes. The theoretical construct for using thoracic manipulation for upper quarter conditions is a mainstay of a regional interdependence (RI) approach. The RI concept is likely much more complex and is perhaps driven by a neurophysiological response including those related to peripheral, spinal cord and supraspinal mechanisms. Recent evidence suggests that thoracic spine manipulation results in neurophysiological changes, which may lead to improved pain and outcomes in individuals with musculoskeletal disorders. The intent of this narrative review is to describe the research supporting the RI concept and its application to the treatment of individuals with neck and/or shoulder pain. Treatment utilizing both thrust and non-thrust thoracic manipulation has been shown to result in improvements in pain, range of motion and disability in patients with upper quarter conditions. Research has yet to determine optimal dosage, techniques or patient populations to which the RI approach should be applied; however, emerging evidence supporting a neurophysiological effect for thoracic spine manipulation may negate the need to fully answer this question. Certainly, there is a need for further research examining both the clinical efficacy and effectiveness of manual therapy interventions utilized in the RI model as well as the neurophysiological effects resulting from this intervention.     

胸椎直接数字X线摄影与传统X线摄影对比分析

目的评价直接数字X线摄影(DR)在胸椎的应用,以及与传统胸椎摄影的对比。方法抽取我院DR胸椎摄影影像和传统胸椎摄影照片各89例,由3位副主任医师及2名主管技师对影像进行分析,用2种方法统计:①按照片质量分甲、乙、丙、废片;②以胸椎侧位分为上、中、下3段显示比例评定。根据2种方法综合评价。结果按照片质量评定:DR影像甲片率74.1%、乙级片率20.2%、丙级片率5.7%、废片率0%;传统照片甲片率45%、乙级片率41.6%、丙级片率11.2%、废片率2.2%;按部位显示评定:DR影像上段胸椎显示率87.6%、中段显示率100%、下段显示率76.4%;传统照片上段胸椎显示率15.3%、中段胸椎显示率75.3%、下段胸椎显示率51.7%。经统计学处理,差异有非常显著性意义(χ2=15.823P<0.001)结论DR胸椎摄影的诊断图像质量明显好于传统胸椎摄影,尤其是上段胸椎显示率明显提高。DR系统成像快捷,操作简单,有利于提高放射科工作效率,有利于放射影像诊断。     

Effects of surgical joint destabilization on load sharing between ligamentous structures in the thoracic spine: a finite element investigation

Background

In vitro investigations have demonstrated the importance of the ribcage in stabilizing the thoracic spine. Surgical alterations of the ribcage may change load-sharing patterns in the thoracic spine. Computer models are used in this study to explore the effect of surgical disruption of the rib–vertebrae connections on ligament load-sharing in the thoracic spine.

Methods

A finite element model of a T7–8 motion segment, including the T8 rib, was developed using CT-derived spinal anatomy for the Visible Woman. Both the intact motion segment and the motion segment with four successive stages of destabilization (discectomy and removal of right costovertebral joint, right costotransverse joint and left costovertebral joint) were analyzed for a 2000 Nmm moment in flexion/extension, lateral bending and axial rotation. Joint rotational moments were compared with existing in vitro data and a detailed investigation of the load sharing between the posterior ligaments carried out.

Findings

The simulated motion segment demonstrated acceptable agreement with in vitro data at all stages of destabilization. Under lateral bending and axial rotation, the costovertebral joints were of critical importance in resisting applied moments. In comparison to the intact joint, anterior destabilization increases the total moment contributed by the posterior ligaments.

Interpretation

Surgical removal of the costovertebral joints may lead to excessive rotational motion in a spinal joint, increasing the risk of overload and damage to the remaining ligaments. The findings of this study are particularly relevant for surgical procedures involving rib head resection, such as some techniques for scoliosis deformity correction.     

Serial Within-Session Improvements in Ankle Dorsiflexion During Clinical Interventions Including Mobilization-With-Movement and A Novel Manipulation Intervention – A Case Series

BackgroundPersisting reductions in ankle dorsiflexion range of motion are commonly encountered clinically and seen to be associated with adverse outcomes after ankle and other lower extremity injuries. Accordingly improving identified deficits is a common goal for rehabilitation; however, little data exists documenting any improvement related to interventions in these patients.PurposeTo document the change in dorsiflexion range of motion after stretching and mobilization-with-movement and exercise and a novel manipulation intervention in a population of injured athletes.DesignCase series in 38 consecutive injured athletes with persisting reductions in ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (42 “stiff” ankles, 34 uninjured) in an outpatient sports physiotherapy clinic.MethodDuring a single treatment session, two baseline measurements of weight-bearing dorsiflexion were taken at the start of the session to establish reliability and minimum detectable change, and then the same measures were performed after stretching and a mobilization-with-movement intervention, and again after clinical exercise and a novel manipulation which was applied on both ankles.ResultsExcellent reliability was demonstrated (ICC_2,1>0.93, MDC=3.5°) for the dorsiflexion measure. Statistically significant (p<0.01), but clinically meaningless improvements were seen after stretching and the mobilization-with-movement intervention on the injured and uninjured legs (1.9° and 1.4° respectively) with greater improvements seen after exercise and the subsequent manipulation (6.9° and 4.7°).ConclusionsThe relatively simple clinical exercise and manipulation intervention program was associated improvement in dorsiflexion range of motion in this cohort with persisting ankle stiffness. The interventions described largely restored range of motion consistent with baseline levels of the uninjured ankles. Improvements were also seen in the uninjured ankles following intervention.     

环枢关节错位所致颈性眩晕的手法治疗

目的观察手法治疗环枢关节错位所致颈性眩晕的疗效.方法对40例颈性眩晕且触诊、X线检查证实环枢关节错位的患者进行定点手法复位.结果治愈31例,总有效率100%.结论手法能纠正环枢关节错位,舒张椎动脉,改善脑部血供,治疗颈性眩晕.     

Thoracic manual therapy in the management of non-specific shoulder pain: a systematic review

Abstract

Objectives:

Non-specific shoulder pain (NSSP) is often persistent and disabling leading to high socioeconomic costs. Cervical manipulation has demonstrated improvements in patients with NSSP, although risks associated with thrust techniques are documented. Thoracic manual therapy (TMT) may utilise similar neurophysiological effects with less risk. The current evidence for TMT in treating NSSP is limited to systematic reviews of manual therapy (MT) applied to the upper quadrant. These reviews included trials that used shoulder girdle manual therapy (SG-MT) in the TMT group. This limits the scope of their conclusions with regard to the exclusive effectiveness of TMT for NSSP.     

Thoracic manual therapy in the management of non-specific shoulder pain: a systematic review

ObjectivesNon-specific shoulder pain (NSSP) is often persistent and disabling leading to high socioeconomic costs. Cervical manipulation has demonstrated improvements in patients with NSSP, although risks associated with thrust techniques are documented. Thoracic manual therapy (TMT) may utilise similar neurophysiological effects with less risk. The current evidence for TMT in treating NSSP is limited to systematic reviews of manual therapy (MT) applied to the upper quadrant. These reviews included trials that used shoulder girdle manual therapy (SG-MT) in the TMT group. This limits the scope of their conclusions with regard to the exclusive effectiveness of TMT for NSSP.MethodsThis review used a steering group for subject and methodological expertise and was reported in line with Preferred Reporting items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Key databases were searched (1990–2014) using relevant search terms and medical subject headings (MeSH); eligibility was evaluated independently by two reviewers based on pre-defined criteria. Study participants had NSSP including impingement syndrome and excluding cervical pain. Interventions included cervicothoracic junction and TMT with or without supplementary exercises. Studies that included MT applied to the shoulder girdle including the glenohumeral joint, acromioclavicular joint or sternoclavicular joint in the TMT group, without a control, were excluded. Included studies utilised outcome measures that monitored pain and disability scores. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and clinical studies were eligible. Using a standardised form, each reviewer independently extracted data. Risk of bias was assessed using GRADE and PEDro scale. Results were tabulated for semi-quantitative comparison.ResultsOver 912 articles were retrieved: three RCTs, one single-arm trial and three pre–post test studies were eligible. Studies varied from poor to high quality. Three RCTs demonstrated that TMT reduced pain and disability at 6, 26 and 52 weeks compared with usual care. Two pre–post test studies found between 76% and 100% of patients experienced significant pain reduction immediately post-TMT. An additional pre–post test study and a single-arm trial showed reductions in pain and disability scores 48 hours post-TMT.DiscussionThoracic manual therapy accelerated recovery and reduced pain and disability immediately and for up to 52 weeks compared with usual care for NSSP. Further, high-quality RCTs investigating the effect of TMT in isolation for the treatment of patients with NSSP are now required.     

Manipulation: searching for an understanding

Manipulative behaviour is one of the reasons why some psychiatric professionals dislike personality-disordered (PD) patients and dislike working with them. Being manipulated arouses strong negative emotions towards the manipulator and can have severe repercussions on the ability to care for or treat those suffering from personality disorders. In order for practitioners to cope with manipulative behaviour and manage their emotional responses towards it, it is necessary to find ways to understand or construe that behaviour, so that moral condemnation and rejection of the patient can be avoided. This article offers a summary of three such methods of interpreting manipulation which are to be found in the literature: manipulation as normal behaviour; manipulation as unconsciously motivated; and manipulation as cognitive distortion. These three viable schemes for the understanding of manipulation provide not just a means to enable a non-judgmental approach, they also provide ways to manage that behaviour in a therapeutic manner.     

Manipulation: description,identification and ambiguity

The word manipulation is frequently applied to some of the difficult-to-manage behaviours of the personality-disordered patient. However, the term is rarely defined, and a review of both the clinical and research literature shows that little has been written about its definition and identification, let alone its clinical management in both in- and outpatient settings. Recent empirical work conducted with nurses in forensic settings has demonstrated the range of behaviours that professionals refer to as 'manipulative', thus clarifying the use of the term and allowing the provision of a more precise definition. The scope of manipulation in everyday life, management practice and politics is perhaps relatively small, although manipulation can occur in all areas of human activity. Social behaviour is doubly ambiguous with respect to judgements of manipulation, as such judgements involve a moral evaluation combined with the identification of deception on the basis of little or partial evidence. The implications of this social ambiguity for clinical psychiatric practice are that professionals need to guard themselves from two polar faults: seeing manipulation everywhere; or being blind to its presence. In order to achieve a cautious moderation, staff need to hold both alternatives in mind at all times.     

胸椎脊索瘤1例

患者男,24岁.以"胸背部疼痛、双下肢无力"为主诉入院.查体:左侧胸背部见8 cm×7 cm包块,质韧,活动度差,表皮无红肿及静脉怒张.T10以下皮肤感觉减退,左下腹壁反射消失.双侧膝腱及跟腱反射亢进,双侧踝震挛阳性,双侧巴氏征阳性,提睾反射消失,肛周皮肤感觉减退,肛门括约肌自主收缩功能减弱.