Thoracic spine vs Cervical Manips

Thoracic spine vs Cervical Manips

Reference:1) Griswold D et al A preliminary study comparing the use of cervical/upper thoracic mobilization and manipulation for individuals with mechanical neck pain. J Man Manip Ther. 2015 May;23(2):75-83.
2) Young JL et al Thoracic manipulation versus mobilization in patients with mechanical neck pain: a systematic review. J Man Manip Ther. 2014 Aug;22(3):141-53.

The most recent study once again concludes that thoracic manipulations (potentially safer and more comfortable for patients) have the same benefit as cervical manipulations (1) (which I avoid and do not teach).

A systematic review supports the application of 1-2 sessions of thoracic manipulations by PTs for patients with acute cervical pain.(2) (which I do and teach).

There is certainly evidence to support the use of cervical mobs and thoracic manips for acute mechanical neck pain.

Posted on: October 11, 2015

Categories: Cervical Spine , Thoracic Spine