Spinal manipulation (SMT) is an intervention commonly used for spinal pain. SMT is the application of a controlled force to a specific target, delivered as a high velocity, low amplitude thrust. During SMT, the preload and thrust phases can impact the paraspinal muscle responses and load the various spinal structures such as articular tissues, intervertebral discs, joint capsules and ligaments. It has been suggested that SMT results in peripheral and central neurophysiological effects, which may explain the clinical outcomes that are observed.

 

 

 

"Gaining a further understanding of the mechanisms of SMT can provide a better understanding of this treatment modality and help us as clinicians modulate treatment conditions that may result in improved clinical benefits and outcomes for our patients. This review suggests that SMT produces neurophysiological effects mainly via spinal cord mechanisms. These mechanisms include..."