The McLeod Activator Study

Chiropractic Adjustments Using Activator Methods to Reduce or Eliminate the Number of Fibromyalgia Tender Points.

Purpose:
The purpose of this study is to determine if the use of this specific Chiropractic Technique is of use to reduce or eliminate the pain symptoms which are evident with tender points in patients with fibromyalgia.

Dates and/or Deadlines:
This study will commence on the First of January 2003.  The study group will depend on the number of volunteers available.  This study will only use Chiropractic Doctors with an Advanced standing in the chosen Activator Methods Chiropractic technique.  Any doctors wishing to participate locally or in their own clinics may contact Dr. McLeod for more information.  Individuals interested in participating directly or indirectly please notify Dr. McLeod by the Dec 15 Deadline.  This is a one-year initial study.

Summary:
This Chiropractic Clinical Research Study is to determine if Activator Methods Chiropractic Technique is a viable source of treatment alone or in combination with Travell's Trigger Point Therapy to treat the pain symptoms which are relevant to the tender points of fibromyalgia symptoms.

A double-blind study involving a diverse base of volunteer patients with the criteria of symptoms for diagnosing fibromyalgia.  Four groups of patients will be used: one using Activator Methods, one group using Travell's Trigger Point Therapy, one group using a combination of both techniques, and one control group.  The study will continue for one year.  Treatment visits for the participants will vary according to severity of symptoms.

Inclusion criteria:
Participants in this study should have been previously diagnosed or suspect the possibility of fibromyalgia.  Participants will be thoroughly examined and a detailed history taken.  Participants will be designated to specific groups for trial study.  The participant will be evaluated on the number of tender points and pain patterns as the study progresses.  Participants must be able to dedicate a year of treatment to this study.  Participants are on a volunteer basis only.  If no volunteers apply, this study will be postponed until April 1, 2003.

Patient requirements:
1) candidate will have a complete physical and history taken.
2) diet history taken.
3) trigger points mapped out.
4) candidates must be close to a practitioner in the study.  So far Dr. Terry McLeod is the only practitioner.  Dr. McLeod practices in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

If you would like to participate in this study, or if your chiropractor is interested and has a current Advanced Rating, contact:

Dr. Terry L. McLeod, DC
McLeod Chiropractic Clinic
18123-107 Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada  T5S 1K4
Ph: (780) 489-2222
Fax: (780) 484-1825
E-Mail: mcleoddc@telusplanet.net