A comparison between muscle energy technique and high velocity low amplitude thrust technique on gross trunk rotation range of motion

Muscle energy technique (MET) and high velocity low amplitude (HVLA) thrust technique are two techniques commonly used by osteopaths and other musculoskeletal therapists. Despite their widespread use, there has been very limited research to compare the efficacy of HVLA and MET for increasing gross trunk rotation range of motion (ROM). Ninety volunteers (age range 18-40) were randomly assigned to either treatment (MET or HVLA) or control groups, and blinded pre-, immediately post- and thirty minutes post-active trunk rotation measures were recorded using a reliable measuring device. Volunteers in the treatment groups received a single application of either thoracolumbar MET or HVLA in the direction of the side (right or left), with the least ROM. Although demonstrating a statistically significant difference in gross trunk ROM immediately and 30 minutes following a single application of MET or HVLA, this was meaningless as it was within the error range of the test equipment. Overall this study failed to show a significant benefit in the use of these osteopathic treatment techniques in increasing gross trunk rotation ROM. This minor thesis was written by a post-graduate student as part of the requirements of the Master of Health Science (Osteopathy) program.

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

cmaster

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

Victoria University

Year dc:date.issued

2004

Author dc:creator

• Nawrocki, Simon

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

Language dc:language

en