December 2005

Research paper shows benefit of flexion distraction

A research paper written by M. R. Gudavalli, DC, and associates shows that flexion-distraction therapy used by chiropractors reduces pain significantly more than the active trunk exercise protocol (ATEP) used by physical therapists. The paper was published online Dec. 8, 2005, in the European Spine Journal.

Researchers joining Gudavalli were J. A. Cambron and J. Jedlicka of National University of Health Sciences; M. Keenum, Orthosport Physical Therapy in Forest Park, Il.; A. J. Ghanayem and A. G. Patwardhan, orthopedic surgery at Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine; A. J. Ghanayem and A. G. Patwardhan, Rehabilitation Research, Edward Hines, Jr. VA Hospital, Hines, Il.; and M. McGregor, research consultant from Richardson, Texas.

The research showed that overall, flexion-distraction provided more pain relief than active exercise. However, the results varied based on stratification of patients with and without radiculopathy and with and without recurrent symptoms.

The research was funded by grants from the federal government.

Source: European Spine Journal, www.Springerlink.com

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