Comparison of drop table and diversified chiropractic techniques in patients with non-specific neck pain

Abstract

Introduction: Neck pain is a common musculoskeletal disorder associated with pain, reduced cervical mobility, and decreased muscle strength, often leading to functional limitations. Chiropractic manipulation is widely used as a conservative treatment, yet the comparative effects of different techniques remain unclear. Objective: To compare the effects of the diversified and drop table chiropractic techniques on pain, cervical range of motion, and muscle strength in individuals with non-specific neck pain. Methods: This randomized controlled clinical trial included 45 participants with non-specific neck pain, randomly assigned to three groups: diversified (DG; n = 15), drop table (DTG; n = 15), and control (CG; n = 15). Interventions were applied twice weekly for four weeks. The primary outcome measure was pain level assessed using the McGill Pain Questionnaire. Secondary outcome measures were cervical joint range of motion assessed with a goniometer and isometric neck muscle strength assessed using a microFET2 dynamometer. Outcomes were assessed pre- and post-intervention. Results: Both DG and DTG demonstrated significant increases in cervical range of motion compared with the CG. Pain levels significantly decreased in both intervention groups. DG showed significant improvements across all isometric muscle strength measures, while DTG demonstrated selective improvements in flexion and right lateral flexion. CG showed no significant changes, except a decrease in extensor strength. Conclusion: Chiropractic interventions effectively reduce pain and enhance cervical function in individuals with non-specific neck pain. The diversified technique provided broader muscle strength improvements, while the drop table technique showed more selective effects, emphasizing the need for individualized technique selection in clinical practice.