FCER-Funded Study Rates Highest
in Literature Review

This section was compiled by Frank M. Painter, D.C.
Send all comments or additions to:   Frankp@chiro.org

The FCER-funded study by P.D. Boline et al., has received the highest methodological rating in a critical literature review of 27 randomized clinical trials on neck pain published between 1966-1995. The results were published in the Scandinavian Journal of Rehabilitative Medicine (Kjellman GV, et al. 1999; Vol. 31, pp. 139-152).

The Boline study (Spinal Manipulation vs. Amitriptyline for the Treatment of Chronic Tension-Type Headaches: A Randomized Clinical Trial) received a quality rating of 62 (out of a possible 100). One other study also received a 62 rating. One third of the studies earned a quality score of 50 or higher.

Anthony Rosner,PhD, director of research at the Foundation for Chiropractic Education and Research (FCER), judged the Boline study was "one of the most positive outcome studies that has appeared anywhere in the literature concerning the efficacy of chiropractic."

Dr. Rosner said the study's comparison of manipulation of tension headaches versus prescription medication "shows an effect that is at least as pronounced as medication, is longer lasting, and has fewer side effects.

"I think we need to make as loud a noise with this information as possible," added Dr. Rosner. The Boline study was published in JMPT, March/April 1995, Vol. 18, No. 3, pp. 148-154.

Return to FCER GRANTS