Immediate alteration of the lumbar intervertebral foramen during the so-called osteopathic locking technique: A preliminary analysis on healthy subjects

Abstract

BackgroundDegenerative processes in the lumbar spine can lead to a decrease of the disc height and an alteration of the foramen with potential compression of the nerve root. Several osteopathic manipulative techniques are designed to improve the intervertebral joints and the foraminal area. ObjectiveThis study was intended to explore the effect of so-called osteopathic manipulative locking technique (OMLT) on the lumbar foramen. MethodsTen asymptomatic volunteers underwent CT scan examination in neutral position and during OMLT targeting the L4-L5 level on the left side. Two subjects were excluded from the sample due to lumbosacral transitional anomaly. Anatomical modeling was obtained by segmenting imaging CT data. 3D kinematics and intervertebral foramen dimensions (height, width and area) were computed for both positioning. ResultsThe findings indicate that OLMT applied on the L4-L5 level consisted in small combined angular motions including extension, contralateral Lateral Bending and contralateral Axial Rotation. These motion components result in a significant alteration of the foramen height on the targeted side. In contrast, other foramen variables remained unchanged on both sides. ConclusionBetter understanding of how osteopathic manipulative technique may affect the intervertebral motion and the foraminal area could improve the knowledge in osteopathic approaches. Further investigations are needed to confirm these primary outcomes and to determine the potential clinical effects of such an application.