February 5, 1999 – Chiropractic treatments are sometimes reported to have a beneficial effect on non-musculoskeletal problems, including asthma. This study aimed to investigate the effect of chiropractic on children with asthma.
A group of 91 children with mild or moderate asthma, and continuing to show symptoms despite conventional medical treatment, was divided into two groups receiving either actual chiropractic treatment or sham treatment for a period of four months. No child had previously received chiropractic treatment. The children were divided among the 11 participating chiropractors, according to their proximity to the therapist. Other than the treating chiropractor and a researcher, all of the participants did not know whether they were receiving sham or actual treatment.
The results demonstrated a modest improvement (7 to 12 L per minute) in the volume of exhaled air in the two groups, without revealing any significant difference between them. Likewise, asthma symptoms and use of β-blockers decreased while quality of life was improved in both groups without revealing any significant difference.
The researchers conclude that chiropractic treatments do not provide additional benefit to conventional medical treatment for asthma.
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Balon J, Aker PD, Crowther ER, Danielson C, Cox PG, O’Shaugnessy D, Walker C, Goldsmith CH, Duku W, Sears MR. A comparison of active and simulated chiropractic manipulation as adjunctive treatment for childhood asthma. N Eng J MEd. 1998; 339: 1013-1020.