The long term effects of chiropractic adjustment therapy on the activity and strength of the biceps brachii muscle

• Main Author: Du Plessis, Louwrens Hermias
• Published: 2014
• Subjects: Chiropractic; Biceps brachii; Muscle strength; Arm - Muscles
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/9908

M.Tech. (Chiropractic) === Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the effects of chiropractic adjustment therapy (CAT) to the cervical spine on the reflex motorneuron excitability of C5 and C6 nerves on the biceps brachii muscle bilaterally. This study was also aimed at measuring the subsequent increase in strength of the biceps brachii muscle. Method: A selection of 30 participants, male or female and between the ages of 18 and 40 were recruited. Participants had to meet all the inclusion criteria and present with no contra-indications. Only one group was used as each participant served as their own control. Participants were seen seven times over a period of three weeks. The measurements were taken during the 1st, 4th and 7th consultations. On the 2nd, 3rd, 5th and 6th consultations only treatment was applied. On the 7th consultation only data was collected and no treatment was done. Results: Statistically significant improvement of dynamometry and electromyographic measurements were noted over the consultation periods on both sides. No conclusion could be made regarding the comparison of dynamometer and sEMG measurements of the biceps brachii between each consultation and between each side (left and right) over the study period. Conclusion: Based on the results obtained in this research it may be deduced that CAT may have an effect on the neurological system and further more an effect by increasing motorneuron excitability at sites distant to the spine itself. These results are important to the Chiropractic profession as it shows that CAT does not only produce a segmental response, but that there are wide spread effects on structures distant to the spinal column. The extent of the effects CAT can elicit on the nervous system requires further investigation.