Mark Morningstar DC, DAASP, FRCCM, FAAIM, David Jockers DC, MS, CSCS
Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health – Chiropractic ~ Volume 2009 ~ Issue 4 ~ Pages 1-7 – October 12, 2009
Abstract
Objective: A retrospective study was conducted on 11 patients in a private office setting to assess the influence that Pettibon System chiropractic adjustments and rehabilitation procedures would have on cervical lordosis, forward head posture, and pulmonary function.
Clinical Features: Cardiorespiratory activity is heavily influenced by posture and body movements. Abnormal posture of the head and neck, a commonly associated finding with vertebral subluxation, significantly influences respiration, oxygenation, and sympathetic function. Posture plays a critical role in the homeostasis of autonomic function such that when posture is optimized, not only is breathing also optimized but other visceral and somatic functions are seen to improve.
Intervention and Outcomes: Subjects were evaluated for postural abnormalities with lateral cervical radiographic films and pulmonary function through spirometric indices which measured forced vital capacity (FVC) and peak expiratory flow (PEF). Subjects received an initial exam that included a lateral cervical radiographic film and a spirometry measurement and then a second exam for both of these parameters at the completion of 3-6 months of care. The subjects showed a significant increase in cervical lordosis (P < 0.001), reduction in forward head posture (P < 0.001), improved Forced Vital Capacity (P = 0.001), and improved Peak Expiratory Flow (P = 0.001).
Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that Pettibon analysis and specific adjustments along with a postural correction protocol using anterior head weights, a posture strap, and Whole Body Vibration improved cervical lordosis, forward head posture and pulmonary function.
Key Terms: Cervical lordosis, forward head posture, Pettibon, pulmonary function, spirometry, vertebral subluxation, chiropractic
