• McGill SM

• Biomechanical Phenomena
• Open Access Document

Perhaps the singular, most important impediment to universal recognition of chiropractic as a legitimate and mature health care alternative is the absence of a developed mechanical knowledge of chiropractic techniques. The purpose of this review paper was to describe, and to some extent critique, some recent research pertaining to mechanics of the lumbar spine and to illustrate the relevance to clinical chiropractic. Specific contentious issues addressed include discussion of the mechanical relationship of intra-abdominal pressure, the lumbodorsal fascia, muscle-ligament interplay and the abdominal musculature with the lumbar spine. Directions or future research are proposed given the pressing need to provide a rationale for, and explanation of, specific chiropractic treatment.

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