A comparison between chiropractic manipulative therapy and foam rolling for the treatment of low back pain in rowers

Abstract: Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of chiropractic manipulative therapy versus foam rolling in the treatment of rowers suffering with low back pain. Method: The study comprised of 30 rowers between the ages of 16 and 30 years of age, who have had a history of low back pain. The participants were separated into three groups. Group 1 had received a combination of chiropractic manipulative therapy (CMT) and foam rolling therapy. Group 2 had received foam rolling therapy only. Group 3 had received CMT only. Participants attended a total of 7 visits over a 3 week period which consisted of 6 treatments and a 7th (final) visit where only measurements had be taken. Objective measurements were performed by a digital inclinometer to measure lumbar spine range of motion (ROM). Subjective measurements were taken in the form of two questionnaires, the numerical pain rating scale (NPRS) and the Oswestry low back pain and disability questionnaire (ODI). The data was recorded by the researcher and once the trials were completed, the results were sent to STATKON to be analysed. Results: The intra-group analysis of ROM revealed that group 3 had a greater improvement in lumbar spine ROM, especially in extension and rotation. Inter-group analysis of ROM revealed that group 1 had a significant improvement compared to the other groups. Intra-group analysis of the NPRS results revealed that all 3 group had an effect on pain levels, on intergroup analysis it was seen that group 1 had the greatest decrease in pain levels. Intra-group analysis the ODI results revealed that there was a decrease in disability across the 3 groups, however on inter-group analysis there was no statistical difference between the groups to determine which treatment is more beneficial. Conclusion: There is evidence that both CMT and foam rolling therapy has positive effects on ROM, pain and disability. Even though this study...M.Tech. (Chiropractic