The effect of chiropractic manipulation on the sacroiliac joints compared to mobilisation, on the weight distribution through the lower limbs

Sacro-iliac joint (S.I joint) dysfunction can result in leg length discrepancies (LLD). LLD has been associated with many musculoskeletal problems such as osteoarthritis of the hips, knee pain and lower back pain. It has been theorised that LLD alters a persons body posture, which in turn changes the forces acting on the joints in the lower extremity and spine. These unnatural forces then create the excessive forces seen as the causative factors in the previously mentioned musculoskeletal conditions. (Murrel, Cornwall, Doucet 1991) The purpose of this pilot study was to was to compare the effect of chiropractic manipulative therapy on the S.I joints with chiropractic mobilisations of the S.I joints on the weight transfer from the spine into the lower limbs. This randomised study consisted of two groups of fifteen patients between the ages of eighteen and fifty years. All potential candidates were examined and admitted once all the inclusion and exclusion criteria had been met. Once S.I joint restrictions were detected the patient received either chiropractic manipulation or mobilisation to the restricted joint. Group A received chiropractic manipulation while group B were treated with mobilisations of the S.I joints. Patients were treated over a two week treatment period. Objective measurements were taken before the 1st treatment and after the 1st ,3rd ,5th and final consultations one month later. The measurements were taken with the Spinal Analyses Machine (S.A.M). This instrument has got two scales on a platform that determines the patients weight distribution from the spine through the left and right lower limbs. The data collected was then statistically analysed using the One Way ANOVA Test (analyses of variance) as well as the Student-Newman-Keuls Method to compare the inter-group and intra-group data. Statistically significant changes in the weight distribution between the lower limbs were seen in group A. Based on the results from the study chiropractic manipulation to the S.I joint proved to be more effective than mobilisation in the treatment of S.I joint dysfunction. This does however require further research, and a larger sample size.Dr. M. Moodley Dr. J. Kotz