The effect of thoracolumbar high velocity low amplitude manipulation on gross trunk range of motion: is the direction of thrust important?

High Velocity Low Amplitude (HVLA) is a form of spinal manipulation commonly used by Osteopaths and other manual medicine practitioners. Despite its widespread use, there is little experimental evidence that supports the efficacy of HVLA in the thoracolumbar region or whether the direction of thrust is important in altering rotation range of motion (ROM). This study investigated whether a single application of thoracolumbar HVLA, either into or away from the restrictive rotation barrier, could significantly increase an asymptomatic volunteer's gross trunk rotation ROM. Thoracolumbar HVLA performed either into or away from the restrictive rotation barrier, had no significant effect on active, seated trunk rotation in asymptomatic volunteers with no fixed asymmetry. This minor thesis was written by a post-graduate student as part of the requirements of the Master of Health Science (Osteopathy) program.

Name dc:type.qualificationname

other

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

cmaster

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

Victoria University

Year dc:date.issued

2004

Author dc:creator

• Fuller, Luke

• 320000 Medical and Health Sciences
• School of Biomedical and Health Sciences

Language dc:language

en