the model that incorporated denucle-ated fluid. Fryer’s new study has produced ini-tial results worthy of further explora-tion that could change the basic theories of chiropractic medicine and offer new avenues of treatment. “If we have a model that can ex-plain the refractory period, there’s an opportunity to perform manual treat-ments during the refractory period when the joint is more mobile and influence anatomy in a different way,” Fryer says. Jaremko notes that disproving the cavitation theory would indicate that joint cracking may not be as harmful to the joints as was previously be-lieved. Although, he says, the practice of cracking one’s knuckles or joints “probably still isn’t recommended as a recreational activity.” FUTURE RESEARCH Fryer’s study has also raised the possibility of using fluid to improve the functioning and lifespan of artifi-cial joints. According to Fryer, his next step will involve quantifying joint cracking in greater detail. Currently, Fryer is partnering with the University of British Columbia to investigate joint cracking in vivo using more sensitive MRI equipment. Fryer’s future research will involve measuring forces, tensions, cavity sizes, and dissolution times during in vivo tests. He aims to identify whether the audible crack occurs before, dur-ing or after cavity formation, in order to better understand the physics be-hind joint cracking. Fryer is now actively seeking feed-back from the academic community on his study in order to establish a foundation for further investigation. “This is still preliminary work, and you always need feedback when you’re collaborating,” he says. Fr yer was recently awarded a $10,000-grant from the British Co-lumbia Chiropractic College to con-tinue his investigation of joint crack-ing, in partnership with the University of British Columbia. He hopes that his continuing research into joint cracking will validate and expand on the cavity formation model. Fryer’s newest study, “A proposed in vitro model for investigating the mechanisms of ‘joint cracking’: a short report of preliminary tech-niques and observations,” can be found in the March 2017 issue of the Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association. For the URL link to Fryer’s research, view this story online at www.canadianchiropractor.ca BackSwing ‘17 CMCC 13 th annual golf tournament www.canadianchiropractor.ca CC_CMCC_Backswing_May17_CSA.indd 1 May 2017 Canadian Chiropractor 23 2017-04-20 9:11 AM
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