A new study has shown the improvements in low back can be visualized directly with an MRI. This is an exciting breakthrough for chiropractors because we can demonstrate that the pain relief and improved neurological function that our patients see every day can now be seen with with direct imaging. Low back pain can often be caused by restricted mobility between the lumbar vertebra which can lead to degenerative changes in the vertebra and disc and eventually fibrous adhesions in the ligaments and muscles in the low back.
The researchers conducting this study had hypothesized that chiropractic adjustments increased the gaping or space between the joints in the lumbar vertebra allowing them to move more freely and decrease degenerative changes. To demonstrate this they randomly divided 112 low back pain patients into groups that received chiropractic adjustments, side-posture positioning, or one of two control groups. They underwent a MRI before care was given and then again again 2 weeks of care. The differences were then measured between the joints in the low back. The most significant gaping was noted after 2 weeks in the group that received the chiropractic adjustments.
This is significant because it demonstrates in a direct visual how chiropractic care can improve function and help decrease disability and improve overall spinal and neurological health in patients. If you believe you or someone you know could benefit from improved spinal function please give us a call today!
In Health,
-Dr. Ben
Cramer GD, et al. Magnetic resonance imaging zygaphosphyseal joint space changes (gapping) in low back pain patients following spinal manipulation and side-posture positioning: a randomized controlled mechanisms trial with blinding. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics 2013; May;36(4):203-17. doi: 10.1016/j.jmpt.2013.04.003. Epub 2013 May 3.
