Acute Effect of Vertebral Manipulation Technique on the Autonomic Nervous System

Abstract

The term "stress" refers to the state induced by perceiving stimuli that trigger emotional and hormonal responses in the body's balance. In acute stress situations, adrenaline, neurotransmitters, and cortisol are released, causing systemic changes and physiological disruptions, keeping the body alert. Heart rate variability assesses the autonomic nervous system. Joint manipulation, involving high-speed, low-amplitude movements, was chosen based on the patient's dysfunction. The study aimed to assess the immediate effects of this technique on the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems, analyzing heart rate variability in university students in Fortaleza. This cross-sectional, randomized, quantitative study at the Ateneu University Center involved 20 participants divided into two groups: G1 – vertebral manipulation application and G2 – a control group with positioning only. Autonomic nervous system evaluation used a sensor connected to the earlobe and the Inner Balance app. Data was processed by Em Wave and Kubios software before and after manipulation. Range of motion was assessed using Kinovea software. Both groups experienced increased range of motion, with greater improvement in the manipulation group. Both groups showed increased parasympathetic activity and reduced sympathetic stress levels, possibly influenced by manipulation and touch, providing either nerve decompression or direct autonomic nervous system stimulation through touch.