Characterization of force-time characteristics of prone cervico-thoracic spinal manipulative therapy using a manikin

Spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) to the neck and back is a technique commonly used by chiropractors to treat neck pain. Unfortunately, the characteristics of forces used during this technique remain unknown. This study will measure and describe the characteristics of the forces used by chiropractors during this technique as performed on a mannikin. Participants will perform the technique with three levels of force: light, typical and maximum and the forces will be measured using the Force Sensing Table Technology (FSTT), a hand-held load cell and a mannikin

The researchers named in this application (Macquarie University academics) are the Australian collaborators in an international multi-site project from Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC).