Practical Geriatrics · Oct 20, 2026
Clinical efficacy of spinal facet joint micro-adjustment in elderly patients with non-specific low back pain of the facet joint dysfunction subtype
By Zhan Weiyi, Shi Gongtao, Zhao Zhengrui et al.
Objective To investigate the clinical efficacy of spinal facet joint micro-adjustment assisted by IQ pulse therapy gun in elderly patients with non-specific low back pain(NLBP) of the facet joint dysfunction subtype. Methods A total of 60 elderly patients with NLBP of facet joint dysfunction subtype, who were treated at Geriatric Hospital of Nanjing Medical University from March to June 2025, were selected and randomly divided into an observation group(n=30) and a control group(n=30) using the envelope randomization method. Both groups received computerized medium-frequency electrotherapy. In addition, the control group underwent sham spinal facet joint micro-adjustment, while the observation group received spinal facet joint micro-adjustment assisted by an IQ pulse therapy gun. Interventions were performed once weekly for 2 consecutive weeks in both groups. The scores of pain and functional scales [Numerical Rating Scale(NRS), Oswestry Disability Index(ODI), Activities of Daily Living(ADL) scale], plantar pressure and gait analysis indicators were compared between the two groups before and after treatment. Adverse reactions during the treatment were also recorded. Results After treatment, the observation group exhibited significantly lower NRS scores, ODI scores and peak plantar pressure values than the control group(P＜0.05). Meanwhile, ADL scores, hip and knee joint range of motion(ROM) were significantly higher than those in the control group(P＜0.05). No obvious adverse reactions occurred in either group during the treatment period. Conclusions Spinal facet joint micro-adjustment assisted by IQ pulse therapy gun yields satisfactory efficacy in elderly patients with NLBP of the facet joint dysfunction subtype. This intervention can effectively alleviates pain, improves lumbar function and ADL, and optimizes plantar pressure distribution and gait patterns.