The effects of a chiropractic upper cervical adjustment on the autonomic nervous system and cardiovascular system

M.Tech.This study was conducted to determine whether Chiropractic Spinal Adjustment Therapy (SAT) of the upper cervical spine has an effect on the normal physiological reactions that take place in the Autonomic Nervous System and Cardiovascular System whilst using the Electrocardiogram as a monitoring device. This area within Chiropractic research calls for further studies to be conducted. One hundred and twenty normotensive participants between the ages of 18 and 30 years were recruited to partake in the study via an advertisement placed in and around the University of Johannesburg Doornfontein Campus (Appendix A). Participants were assessed for exclusion criteria by completing a Full Case History (Appendix B), Pertinent Physical Examination (Appendix C), Cervical Spine Regional Examination (Appendix D) and a S.O.A.P. note (Appendix E). Participants were excluded from the study if it was revealed that they have contra-indications to Chiropractic SAT (Appendix F). The participants demonstrating upper cervical spine dysfunction were treated with a Chiropractic upper cervical SAT (Appendix J) while they were monitored for 3 minutes before, during treatment and 3 minutes after treatment by means of the Electrocardiogram to monitor the cardiovascular response. Participants were asked to read and sign the Subject Information and Consent form (Appendix G). Participants were required to complete the Patient Biographical Information Sheet (Appendix H) and the Patient Questionnaire regarding treatment experience (Appendix I