Comparison of two methods of cervical spine pain manual therapy using clinical and biochemical pain markers

Background. Sedentary lifestyle, often associated with faulty posture is a widespread facilitating factor for cervical spine dysfunction (CSD). Objective. The purpose of our study was to compare two methods of physical therapy for CSD: the McKenzie method and suboccipital relaxation. We investigated the effect of these methods on pain level perceived by patients and their physical fitness. The levels of biochemical stress indicators were assessed. Materials and methods. Eighty-six adult patients divided into two groups: A and B. Group A included 42 patients treated with the McKenzie method. Group B consisted of 44 patients, who underwent suboccipital relaxation. The treatment in both groups comprised 3 treatment sessions over a 6-week period. To assess salivary sIgA concentration, the ELISA technique was used. The alpha-amylase activity was determined using static method. Pain assessment was performed using the VAS scale. Disability level was evaluated with the NDI scale. Results. Significant decrease of VAS and NDI scores were observed in both groups. An increase of sIgA concentration was observed in both groups. No difference in amylase activity between the groups was observed, however, time and group effects the interaction was found to be significant. A significant correlation between both biochemical markers and VAS score was observed in group B and in the general population. Conclusions. Both therapies improve patient outcomes, however, at present we cannot indicate the advantage any method.