DefinePK

Research Objective

To explore how spinal manipulation and chiropractic care influence central neural function and immune markers, particularly focusing on the role of the prefrontal cortex.

Methodology

This is an editorial that reviews existing scientific evidence from published studies. It synthesizes findings from research that assessed neurophysiological changes (e.g., prefrontal cortex activity, joint position sense, reflex excitability, reaction time, sensorimotor integration, motor control, muscle strength) and immune markers following spinal manipulation/chiropractic care.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD;
    A["Review of Existing Literature"] --> B["Synthesis of Findings on Spinal Manipulation/Chiropractic Care"];
    B --> C["Impact on Neurophysiology"Prefrontal Cortex""];
    C --> D["Impact on Immune Markers"];
    B --> E["Interaction with Stress and Neuro-Immune Axis"];
    D --> F["Conclusion on Modulatory Effects"];
    E --> F;                    

Discussion

The prefrontal cortex plays a crucial role in executive functions, pain perception, emotional control, and regulating the autonomic, immune, and endocrine systems. Spinal manipulation/chiropractic adjustments appear to modulate vertebral motor control, prefrontal cortex activity, and immune markers. While previous studies have assessed immune markers shortly after adjustments, the long-term effects and the precise mechanisms of interaction between spinal manipulation, neurophysiology, and the immune system require further investigation.

Key Findings

Spinal manipulation and chiropractic care can significantly influence central neural function, with observed changes in prefrontal cortex activity. These changes are linked to improvements in various sensorimotor functions and potentially affect the hypothalamic-pituitary-axis, autonomic nervous system, and immune system. Stress can inhibit prefrontal cortical activity and the parasympathetic nervous system, leading to inflammation and reduced immune response, a mechanism that spinal manipulation may counteract.

Conclusion

Spinal manipulation and chiropractic care have a demonstrable impact on neurophysiological functions, particularly involving the prefrontal cortex, and may influence immune markers. Further research is needed to fully elucidate the complex mechanisms and long-term implications of these interventions on the neuro-immune axis.

Fact Check

1. Prefrontal cortex activity changes: The text states that prefrontal cortex activity changes after spinal manipulation/chiropractic care, citing several studies (1-6). This is a key claim supported by the cited literature.
2. Stress and inflammation: The text claims that stress triggers the sympathetic nervous system and the hypothalamic-pituitary-axis, ultimately inducing inflammation and declining immune response. This is a well-established physiological pathway.
3. Review of basic science evidence: A review (12) is mentioned as summarizing basic science evidence that spinal manipulation/chiropractic care modulates immune mediators (13). This indicates a synthesis of existing research.

Mind Map