Investigation of various factors that influence cervical spine pain

Barry White                                                                        Supervisor: Fiona Hamilton

Abstract

“We can’t solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them.” Albert Einstein.

Background: There appears to be an increasing incidence of cervical spine pain and conditions presenting to osteopathic practices. As a result of this, it is felt that more research is needed into the causative factors of such conditions.

Purpose: To investigate the various factors that influence cervical spine pain in students at the London School of Osteopathy. The findings of this study will be assessed to see if there would be benefit in using the results to inform decision-making in the osteopathic case history and differential diagnosis process.

Method: A questionnaire was given to 90 students at the London School of Osteopathy. The 90 students mirrored attendance at the college on the day of the study.

Results: The response rate to this study was 100% replied (n = 90). 95.5% (N = 86) were compiled into usable statistics. The only significant finding from this study is that the use of bi-focal glasses increases the risk of cervical spine pain (P = 0.026). 

Conclusion: The results from this study have illustrated a correlation between cervical spine pain and the wearing of bifocal glasses. The results therefore indicate that it would be beneficial to include bifocal-wearing as a consideration in the diagnosis of neck pain during osteopathic evaluation and management. They suggest that further research is warranted into the wearing of bifocal glasses as a predisposing clinical factor for neck pain.