A clinical crossover trial of the effect of manipulative therapy on pain and passive and active range of motion of the painful hip.

Objectives: This study aims to determine whether manipulative therapy of the hip joint can increase range of motion (ROM) and/or decrease pain in individuals experiencing symptomatic hip pain.

Methods: Non-disabled young adults were recruited on campus of a chiropractic college for this randomized crossover study. Subjects' hip active and passive ROM and pain perception were measured. Subjects then received a drop-piece hip manipulation (DPHM) or an alternative treatment, followed by measurement of active and passive ROM and pain.

Results: Eight males and 12 females (n=20) between the ages of 21-32 years completed the study. Statistically significant improvements in numeric pain scale (NRS) and passive abduction were observed for the manipulation group when compared to the alternative treatment. No significant change was observed for all other hip ranges.

Conclusions: DPHM of the symptomatic hip joint in a small sample of young adults resulted in statistically significant improvements in pain and passive abduction when compared to sham manipulation. Due to low sample size, further research is recommended.