Spinal manipulation or mobilization for radiculopathy: a systematic review

Phys Med Rehabil Clin N Am. 2011 Feb;22(1):105-25. doi: 10.1016/j.pmr.2010.11.002. Epub 2010 Dec 30.

Abstract

In this systematic review, we present a comprehensive and up-to-date systematic review of the literature as it relates to the efficacy and effectiveness of spinal manipulation or mobilization in the management of cervical, thoracic, and lumbar-related extremity pain. There is moderate quality evidence that spinal manipulation is effective for the treatment of acute lumbar radiculopathy. The quality of evidence for chronic lumbar spine-related extremity symptoms and cervical spine-related extremity symptoms of any duration is low or very low. At present, no evidence exists for the treatment of thoracic radiculopathy. Future high-quality studies should address these conditions.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Manipulation, Spinal / adverse effects
  • Manipulation, Spinal / methods*
  • Physical Therapy Modalities
  • Radiculopathy / therapy*