In 2002, Moodley, et. al., randomized clinical trial aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of spinal manipulation compared to ultrasound therapy in the management of patients with neck pain. The study employed a randomized clinical trial design. The research was conducted at the Technikon Natal Chiropractic Clinic-Durban, South Africa. Thirty individuals with neck pain, ranging in age from 16 to 60 years, were randomly assigned to participate in the study. Participants were recruited through advertisements placed by the Department of Chiropractic at Technikon Natal, published in local newspapers and radio announcements.

The subjects were divided into two groups. Group 1 received spinal manipulation, while Group 2 underwent ultrasound therapy. Both groups were evaluated using the following outcome measures: cervical range of motion assessments using a CROM goniometer, algometer measurements to assess pain thresholds, the Numerical Pain Rating Scale 101 to determine pain intensity, the CMCC Neck Disability Index to assess the level of disability, and the Short Form McGill Questionnaire to evaluate the sensory dimension of pain.

The results showed that ultrasound therapy led to an increase in the range of motion for right rotation of the neck. In contrast, spinal manipulation resulted in an improvement in left rotation, right lateral flexion (neck range of motion), and a reduction in disability.

Based on the findings, it can be concluded that both ultrasound therapy and spinal manipulation are effective in the treatment of mechanical neck pain. However, spinal manipulation appears to be more effective in improving overall mobility and reducing cervical disability compared to ultrasound therapy alone.

Reference: Moodley, M., & Brantingham, J. W. (2002). The relative effectiveness of spinal manipulation and ultrasound in mechanical pain: Pilot study. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 1(4), 184-188.