INNOVATIVE PERSPECTIVES ON SPINAL MANIPULATION: NEUROMUSCULAR OUTCOMES AND IMPLICATIONS FOR HEALTH TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION

Abstract

Purpose - The paper aims to reframe spinal manipulation from its traditional biomedical context into the domain of healthcare innovation. By analyzing its effects on neuromuscular outcomes and workplace health, the study explores how spinal manipulation can be positioned as a validated health technology innovation with managerial and policy relevance.

Design/Methodology/Approach -A narrative review was conducted, synthesizing 54 peer-reviewed studies published between 2000 and 2024 across biomedical, ergonomics, and innovation management domains. Clinical trials, neurophysiological experiments, and organizational studies were coded thematically. Innovation frameworks such as the Diffusion of Innovations and the Technology Acceptance Model were applied to interpret adoption barriers and enablers.

Findings - Results indicate that spinal manipulation improves cortical drive, maximum voluntary contraction, and motor unit recruitment. Ergonomics studies report reductions in musculoskeletal discomfort and absenteeism, alongside improvements in concentration and productivity. Technology-enabled validation tools (EMG and TMS) enhance credibility and observability, supporting wider adoption. Barriers include regulatory uncertainty and low compatibility with biomedical paradigms.

Originality/Value - The study contributes to both clinical and innovation literature by conceptualizing spinal manipulation as a healthcare innovation. It advances theoretical integration between clinical evidence and innovation adoption models while offering practical implications for managers, clinicians, and policymakers. By positioning spinal manipulation as an innovation, the paper opens pathways for interdisciplinary collaboration and technology-enabled healthcare transformation.