Comparison of Two Spinal Manipulation Treatments in Patients With Chronic Mechanical Neck Pain

A Comparative Study Between Cervicothoracic and Upper Cervical Spine Manipulation in Patients With Chronic Mechanical Neck Pain: a Randomized Controlled Trial

There is enough evidence to suggest that the spinal manipulation of the upper cervical spine and cervicothoracic spine are effective in decreasing neck pain. Therefore, the purpose of this randomized controlled trial is to compare the effects of an isolated application of upper cervical spine thrust joint manipulation with the application of a full combination of cervical, cervico-thoracic and thoracic spine thrust joint manipulation on neck pain, disability and cervical range of motion in individuals with chronic mechanical neck pain.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Symptom persistence for more than 12 weeks.
• Age from 18 to 55 years.
• Localized pain in the cervical spine.
• Symptoms are caused by cervical movement or sustained postures.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Stage acute of symptoms.
• Any contraindication to cervical spinal manipulation (fracture, osteoporosis, joint infections or vertebrobasilar insufficiency).
• Patients with previous neck trauma or cervical spine surgery.
• Patients diagnosed with cervical radiculopathy.
• Patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia.
• Have been treated with manual therapy in the last 3 months.
• Receiving other treatment during the course of the study.