Patient Perceptions Following a Single Session of Simulated or Genuine HVLA Manual Chiropractic Adjustments

The primary aim of this trial is to assess blinding following simulated/sham or genuine/real high velocity, low amplitude (HVLA) manual chiropractic adjustments. Briefly, 30 eligible participants will be randomized (1:1 ratio) to receive a single session of either simulated/sham or genuine/real chiropractic spinal adjustments and be given a brief survey immediately following their session and 48 hours later that captures their perceptions and experiences regarding the intervention they received. This study is intended to inform a future multi-session, randomized, sham-controlled trial.

Inclusion criteria

• 18-60 years of age

Exclusion criteria

• History of stroke or transient ischemic attack or current symptoms including dizziness or vertigo, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), or visual, sensory, or motor disturbances
• New pattern headache complaint
• Recent whiplash injury (within 12 months)
• Cervical fracture/dislocation
• Disc problem with radiating symptoms to the arms or legs
• Severe degenerative joint disease in the spine
• Connective tissue disorder
• Primary fibromyalgia
• Metabolic or metaplastic bone disease
• History of cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spine surgery
• Uncontrolled high blood pressure or vascular disease
• Current use of anticoagulant therapy
• Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) or a DC student in 5th quarter or above
• Present, self-reported pregnancy