Does the adjustment cavitate the targeted joint? an investigation into the location of cavitation sounds☆
Received 7 August 2001; received in revised form 2 December 2002
Abstract
Background
The cavitation sounds heard during chiropractic adjustments of the spine are common phenomena; yet, their location relative to the technique used is relatively untested.
Objective
The purpose of this study was to locate the cavitation sounds during the L5 spinous hook adjustment and a lower sacroiliac adjustment. The sounds were analyzed for significant difference in location relative to the 2 techniques.
Methods
Thirty asymptomatic volunteers were randomly divided into 2 equal groups. Each group represented either the spinous hook adjustment or lower sacroiliac adjustment. Subjects had 8 microphones taped to their skin, over the relevant facet and sacroiliac joints. Radiographic confirmation was used to ensure optimal placement of the microphones. Sound signals produced during the adjustments were digitized, recorded, and analyzed statistically.
Results
The results indicated that no statistically significant correlation existed between the anatomical location of cavitation sounds and the adjustment technique selected.
Conclusion
Location of cavitation sounds does not appear to have a relationship with type of manipulative technique selected. Further studies using other techniques need to be performed.
ABSTRACT