The neurophysiological response to manual therapy is highly complex; however, we have begun to understand how different applications may provide varied effects.
Spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) has been proven to be an effective modality for pain relief and improved functional ability while being recognized as a preferred first-line non-pharmacological option for a variety of neuromusculoskeletal complaints. In addition to the spine, many chiropractors provide care to the extremities.
This study highlights the varying effects of spinal manipulation, knee manipulation, and ankle mobilization. Each variation of manual therapy appears to provide unique neurophysiological responses. The neurophysiological responses are responsible for the clinically significant decreases in pain via a descending pain modulation circuit.
As we continue to learn more, it’s already clear that movement-based care, such as chiropractic, can provide a wide array of benefits for patients recovering from musculoskeletal issues.
“…Vernon et al. (1986), who found a small but statistically significant increase in plasma b-endorphin levels in the experimental group, but not in the sham or control groups.”
“Recently, Plaza-Manzaon et al. (2014) compared cervical and thoracic manipulations to a control group. Both cervical and thoracic groups saw decreases in neurotensin, increases in orexin A, and decreases in oxytocin.”
“Multiple reviews have also investigated the pain modulating mechanisms of spinal manipulation and are in agreement that the analgesic origins are neurophysiological in nature, occurring through some type of decending pain modulation circuit.”
We believe patients have better outcomes when their
health professionals work together.
