Unilateral vs Bilateral Application of Muscle Energy Techniques in Pelvic Somatic Dysfunction

Osteopathic muscle energy technique (MET) is a well-known modality widely used by osteopathic practitioners. MET can be applied to different regions and segments of the body, is well tolerated and effective in reducing muscle hypertonicity and pain sensation. MET involves a patient actively using their muscles on request from a precisely controlled position, in a specific direction, against a distinctly executed counter force. The group of pelvic MET consists of specific variations directed to particular somatic dysfunction (SD) of innominate and pubic bones, such as pelvic shears, pelvic outflares and pelvic inflares. All techniques are well known and widely used. Based on empirical clinical observations, not confirmed by any research, it was suggested that pubic abduction/adduction SD MET combination should be able to correct all pelvic SD including innominate SD.

The investigators intend to assess if application of abduction/adduction SD combination MET may resolve any one-sided diagnosed pelvic SD.

MET involves a patient actively using their muscles on request from a precisely controlled position, in a specific direction, against a distinctly executed counter force. During MET, the physician positions the area of treatment into a position of resistance, which is the restrictive barrier. The physician then instructs the patient to use the targeted muscles for 3-5 seconds in the direction of ease while the physician provides a counterforce. The physician then tells the patient to stop contracting their muscles and evaluate the area for decreased tension, then repositions the patient into their new restrictive barrier. These steps are repeated three to five times and then the dysfunction is reevaluated.

Subjects diagnosed with pelvic SD will be divided into two groups. The control group will be treated with traditional one-sided MET, the second group will be treated with combination MET. Results of post-treatment exams will be collected and statistically analyzed.

Inclusion criteria

Current osteopathic medical students first-and second year.

Exclusion criteria

• Acute severe pelvic pain,
• Pregnancy,
• History of pelvic trauma or surgery,
• Receiving osteopathic treatment for pelvic dysfunction outside this study.