Murdoch straightening out crippling problem

by Briana Young

April 30, 2008

MID BACK pain is being targeted in a new study being conducted at Murdoch University Chiropractic Clinic to try and determine the most effective treatment for the condition.

“It affects what people can do in their everyday lives,” said Amy Crothers, who is running the trial. “It can affect how well they sleep if the pain is unbearable.

“Sometimes they can’t sleep at all.”

Dr Crothers said mid back pain result from joint dysfunction, disc problems, scoliosis, and tight muscles, all of which can be caused by something as common as sitting at a computer all day with bad posture.

The study will compare three common chiropractic treatments to determine which is the most effective in treating the condition.

One of the treatments to be studied is chiropractic adjustment, the common traditional practice of manipulation of the spine.

 Also to be examined is the Graston technique (which uses steel instruments to treat soft tissue damage) and ultrasound (where sound waves are used to treat soft tissue injuries).

Dr Crothers believes there is a lack of research in the field, and hopes her study will benefit sufferers in the future.

“There’s been plenty of research done on upper and lower back pain, but mid back pain has been generally left out,” she said.

Up to 80 per cent of people will suffer from some form of back pain in their lives.

As part of the trial, treatments are being offered to for free.  If you are over 18, and interested in taking part, call Dr Crothers on 0412 494 661.