Characterization of thoracic spinal manipulation and mobilization forces in older adults.

Background: Spinal mobilization and spinal manipulation are common interventions used by manual therapists to treat musculoskeletal conditions in older adults. Their force-time characteristics applied to older adults' thoracic spine are important considerations for effectiveness and safety but remain unknown. This study aimed to describe the force-time characteristics of posterior-to-anterior spinal mobilization and manipulation delivered to older adults' thoracic spine.

The refractory period of the audible "crack" after lumbar manipulation: a preliminary study.

Objective: This study evaluates if side posture lumbar manipulation is associated with a refractory period of the audible "crack" and if so, to quantify this refractory period across subjects.

Methods: Three subjects were exposed to multiple "baseline" side posture manipulations until no further audible cracks were recorded. "Test-refractory period" manipulations were administered after a set time (ie, potential refractory period) at which point the number of audible cracks was recorded.