Efficacy of chiropractic manipulation is supported for low back pain, neck pain and several other well defined conditions. In practice, however, chiropractors tend to offer longer sequences of manipulation than studies support, or they prescribe maintenance treatment. Only in low back pain is there goo evidence that maintenance improved outcomes. ODG does not generally support maintenance treatments. NYS neck guideline, on the other hand, says: ‘
A maintenance program of PT, OT or spinal manipulation (by a physician (MD/DO), chiropractor or physical therapist) may be indicated in certain situations, after the determination of MMI, when tied to maintenance of
functional status.’
S. Malqvist , Health maintenance care in work-related low back pain and its association with disability recurrence. J Occup Environ Med. 2011 Apr;53(4):396-404.
Descarreaux M, Blouin J-S, Drolet M, Papadimitriou S, Teasdale
Efficacy of Preventive Spinal Manipulation for Chronic Low-Back Pain and Related Disabilities: A Preliminary Study J MANIPULATIVE PHYSIOL THER. 2004 OCT; 27(8) pp.
ODG -TWC ODG Treatment Integrated Treatment/Disability Duration Guidelines Neck and Upper Back (Acute & Chronic) Back to ODG – TWC Index (updated 05/14/13)
New York Guidelines Neck Injury Medical Treatment Guidelines Second Edition January 14, 2013 Corrected February 22, 2013 Effective March 1, 2013