Effects of Upper Cervical Manipulation on Stabilometry in Asymptomatic Individuals with Cervical Dysfunction

Abstract

The atlanto-occipital joint plays a fundamental role in integrating proprioceptive, vestibular, and visual inputs, which are essential for postural control. Functional alterations in this region may affect body stability, even in asymptomatic individuals. The present study aimed to investigate the immediate effects of a single session of high-velocity, low-amplitude osteopathic manipulation on the stabilometry in asymptomatic, physically active university students. This experimental, cross-sectional study included 24 university students (mean age: 23 ± 3.9 years). Participants were evaluated using a baropodometric platform at 3 time points: before, immediately after, and 2 minutes after the intervention, under 2 conditions: eyes open and eyes closed. The variables analyzed were: center of pressure displacement area, center of pressure path length, and mean square velocity. Results showed greater postural instability immediately after the manipulation, with increased center of pressure area and path length. After two minutes, a reduction in mean square velocity was observed, indicating the beginning of postural reorganization. The eyes-closed condition resulted in the highest sway values, highlighting the critical role of vision in balance. These findings suggest that upper cervical manipulation can trigger acute neurophysiological responses, which are detectable by sensitive instruments, even if not clinically evident. It is concluded that the beneficial effects of cervical manipulation are not immediate but emerge over time. Future studies with longer post-intervention follow-up periods it is recommended, to better understand the sensorimotor adaptation process of the postural control system following osteopathic manipulation.