Date of Award
Summer 8-11-2011
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Kinesiology and Health
First Advisor
Mark D. Geil
Second Advisor
Jianhua Wu
Abstract
Introduction
Many chiropractic articles and textbooks discuss gait, but there actually has been little research into the effects of chiropractic adjustment on gait. This pilot study used a quantitative method of gait evaluation before and after a series of chiropractic visits. Hypotheses: (1) adults with chronic low back pain (CLBP) would show increased variability in vertical ground reaction forces (VGRF) while walking, as compared to healthy control subjects, and (2) that, following chiropractic care, will show decreased variability.
Methods
VGRF data were collected for 6 controls and compared to 9 CLBP participants, who were also evaluated before and after the first visit of care and over 7 visits. Data were analyzed by Mean Standard Deviation (MSD), Mean Coefficient of Variation (MCV), and the Coefficient of Variation of loading rate. Chiropractic care consisted of “high velocity low amplitude” thrust type procedures, flexion-distraction, pelvic wedges, light mobilization, and stretching.
Results
CLBP participants had somewhat greater variability and became slightly less variable post-care; differences were not significant. Limitations: Some participants had no impairment of walking at baseline; MSD is an uncommon measure, and more research is needed; these results (small group seen by a single doctor) may not be generalizable.
Conclusions
Participants with CLBP had slightly more variability and had slight decreases in variability following chiropractic care. Differences were not statistically significant. With this small pilot study as a guide, more research should be done with larger groups and improved participant selection.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.57709/2385506
Recommended Citation
Russell, Brent S.; Geil, Mark D.; Wu, Jianhua; and Hoiriis, Kathryn T., "Variability of Vertical Ground Reaction Forces in Patients with Chronic Low Back Pain, Before and After Chiropractic Care." Thesis, Georgia State University, 2011.
doi: https://doi.org/10.57709/2385506