EVALUATING THE EFFICACY OF OSTEOPATHIC MANIPULATION TECHNIQUES ON CORRECTING MUSCULAR IMBALANCE AND PELVIC ALIGNMENT IN AMATEUR ATHLETES WITH LOWER CROSSED SYNDROME
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Keywords
Osteopathic Manipulation, Lower Crossed Syndrome, Pelvic Alignment, Muscle Energy Technique, Amateur Athletes, Balance
Abstract
Background: Lower Crossed Syndrome (LCS) is a prevalent postural imbalance among amateur athletes, characterized by tight hip flexors and lower back extensors, along with weak gluteal and abdominal muscles. These muscular imbalances contribute to anterior pelvic tilt, compromised stability, and increased injury risk. Osteopathic Manipulation Techniques (OMTs) offer a holistic therapeutic approach targeting these biomechanical dysfunctions.
Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of osteopathic manipulation techniques in correcting muscular imbalance and improving pelvic alignment among amateur athletes diagnosed with LCS.
Methods: Forty-five amateur athletes aged 20–40 years with clinically diagnosed LCS participated in a two-week intervention involving various OMTs including Muscle Energy Techniques (MET), diaphragmatic and peritoneal release, and cranial rhythmic techniques. Outcome measures included pelvic tilt (PALM Pelvic Inclinometer), iliopsoas tightness (Modified Thomas Test), and gluteus maximus strength and hamstring flexibility. Pre- and post-intervention scores were compared using paired t-tests.
Results: Significant improvements (p < 0.01) were observed in pelvic alignment, gluteus maximus strength and hamstring flexibility. OMTs effectively corrected postural asymmetries and enhanced neuromuscular control.
Conclusion: Osteopathic manipulation techniques effectively address muscular imbalance and pelvic misalignment in amateur athletes with LCS, enhancing functional performance and reducing injury risk. Integrating OMT into athlete conditioning programs could yield preventive and rehabilitative benefits.
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Vishma Lamichhane
Osteopath & Physiotherapist Sri Sri University, Cuttack, Odisha
