Spinal manipulative therapy has an immediate effect on thermal pain sensitivity in people with low back pain: a randomized controlled trial.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Current evidence suggests that spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) is effective in the treatment of people with low back pain (LBP); however, the corresponding mechanisms are unknown. Hypoalgesia is associated with SMT and is suggestive of specific mechanisms.

Objective

The primary purpose of this study was to assess the immediate effects of SMT on thermal pain perception in people with LBP. A secondary purpose was to determine whether the resulting hypoalgesia was a local effect and whether psychological influences were associated with changes in pain perception.

Design

This study was a randomized controlled trial.

Setting

A sample of convenience was recruited from community and outpatient clinics.

Participants

Thirty-six people (10 men, 26 wom

SUBMITTER: Bialosky JE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2794479 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature