IMMEDIATE EFFECTS OF HIGH VELOCITY LOW AMPLITUDE THRUST MANIPULATION OF THE THORACIC SPINE ON MECHANICAL NECK PAIN, DISABILITY AND CERVICAL RANGE OF MOTION

Abstract

Background: Neck pain is a common complaint of the general population yet there is no gold standard for treating such cases. This study was undertaken to find out the immediate effects of high velocity low amplitude thrust manipulations of the thoracic spine along with the conventional therapy on mechanical neck pain, disability and cervical range of motion because of the biomechanical relationship of the thoracic and the cervical spine. High velocity low amplitude (HVLA) thrusts at the thoracic spine have been shown to have minimal risk to patients and also to be an effective intervention for spinal pain. Purpose of the study: The purpose of this study is to find out the immediate effects of HVLA thrust of thoracic spine on mechanical neck pain, disability and cervical range of motion. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in Sancheti hospital, Pune. Total 50 subjects in between age group 18 to 60 years old with mechanical neck pain, restricted cervical ROM were included in the study. This study was performed with random sampling technique (lottery method). The participants were explained their role in the study and a written consent was taken from the patients. Numerical pain rating scale (NPRS) and Neck Disability Index (NDI) were explained to the patient and the scores pre and post intervention was used as the outcome measures. Along with this goniometric evaluation of cervical ROM pre and post intervention was also used as the outcome measure. Results: NPRS and cervical ROM showed a significant p value (< 0.005) within the experimental group post intervention. The p value for NPRS and cervical ROM in between the group is significant (< 0.005). NDI lacks its significance both within the group and in between the group. Conclusion: HVLA thrust of the thoracic spine was effective in immediately reducing mechanical neck pain and improving cervical range of motion.