Manual therapy followed by specific active exercises versus a placebo followed by specific active exercises on the improvement of functional disability in patients with chronic non specific low back pain. A randomized controlled study

Balthazard P, et al. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2012;13(162).

This is a well documented paper and well worth the 27 pages (Email beth@bethshelly.com for a copy). 42 patient randomized to receive manipulation / mobilization (including muscle energy to the pelvic and PA mobilizations to the spine) followed by active exercise or detuned ultrasound followed by active exercise.  Exercise included: mobility, passive stretching, motor control, stability, and strengthening. 8 sessions over 4 to 8 weeks. Manual therapy group had better immediate analgesic effect, lower disability and a trend toward lower pain. 

Conclusion - manual therapy is beneficial