The efficacy of spinal manipulation in the management of the irritable bowel syndrome

Abstract

The aim of this placebo-controlled clinical trial was to determine the role of spinal manipulation in the management of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), in terms of the patients' subjective response to treatment. It was hypothesized that spinal manipulation would have a greater effect than placebo in reducing the intensity of the symptoms of IBS. Thirty subjects diagnosed with IBS were randomly divided into two groups. Each group consisted of 15 subjects, aged between 18 and 50. Patients were treated twice a week for three weeks and once in the fourth week. Thereafter, each patient returned approximately 1 month later to be assessed for any longer-term benefit to treatment. Patients in the experimental group received spinal manipulation directed at areas of spinal fixation, as determined by motion palpation. Patients in the control group were treated using a detuned ultrasound machine over areas of spinal fixation. Treatment was performed with the same degree of enthusiasm in both groups, where possible.