The immediate effects of thoracic spine manipulation in patients with neck pain: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Background: The immediate therapeutic impact of thoracic spine manipulation (TSM) on pain levels, cervical mobility, and functional impairment in patients with neck pain has not been conclusively established. Objective: This study aimed to assess the short-term outcomes of TSM by contrasting it with sham interventions or alternative treatment approaches for neck pain management. Methods: values. Results: The study incorporated 17 randomized controlled trials involving 1,100 participants. The meta-analytical results demonstrate that thoracic spine manipulation (TSM) produces notable improvements in pain reduction (standardized mean difference [SMD] = -0.53; 95% confidence interval: -0.84 to -0.22). Significant enhancements were also observed in cervical range of motion across multiple dimensions: forward bending (SMD = 4.27; 95% CI: 2.14-6.40), extension (SMD = 2.33; 95% CI: 0.17-4.49), left side bending (SMD = 2.29; 95% CI: 0.47-4.10), right side bending (SMD = 2.94; 95% CI: 1.09-4.78), left rotation (SMD = 3.15; 95% CI: 0.82-5.47), and right rotation (SMD = 2.47; 95% CI: 0.18-4.76). Additionally, functional disability showed marked improvement (SMD = -7.31; 95% CI: -10.01 to -4.61). Conclusion: Current evidence, ranging from moderate to strong levels, indicates that TSM yields substantial immediate benefits for individuals experiencing cervical discomfort, including pain relief, improved neck mobility, and reduced functional limitations. The intervention demonstrates excellent safety profiles, making it suitable for widespread clinical application.