Clinical Trial: Randomized Controlled Trial of Chiropractic Manipulation Versus Medical Therapy for Chronic Neck Pain

Study Status: Completed
Recruit Status: Completed
Study Type: Interventional

Official Title: Randomized Controlled Trial of Chiropractic Manipulation Versus Medical Therapy for Chronic Neck Pain

Brief Summary: The purpose of this study is to determine whether chiropractic manipulation or medical therapy is effective in the treatment of chronic neck pain.

Detailed Summary:

Neck pain is a common complaint, approximately 10% of the population have neck pain. Many modalities are used to treat neck pain, but no therapy has been found to be clearly superior. We conducted a randomized controlled study of chiropractic manipulation versus medical therapy for chronic neck pain.

Subjects (n=70) with neck pain for more than 3 months but with no evidence of radiculopathy or myelopathy were randomized. Both groups were instructed to do neck exercises and use heat daily. The chiropractic group received 12 standardized manipulations over 6 weeks. Nurses saw the medical group on the same visit schedule and received acetaminophen 1,000 milligrams four times a day as needed. Blinded observer performed all measurements. The primary outcome measure was the Neck Disability Index (NDI). Secondary measures were pain via a visual analogue scale, global via Medical Outcome Study Short Form and range of motion via Cybex electronic inclinometer.

Sponsor: University of Colorado, Denver

Current Primary Outcome: Neck Disability Index scale 0-30, clinically significant difference is a change greater than or equal to 5

Original Primary Outcome: Same as current

Current Secondary Outcome:

Original Secondary Outcome:

Information By: University of Colorado, Denver

Dates:
Date Received: January 30, 2007
Date Started: September 1994
Date Completion:
Last Updated: February 4, 2013
Last Verified: January 2007