Boyd, Ross (2003) Influence of osteopathic palpatory examination on sympathetic nervous system function: a pilot study. Coursework Master thesis, Victoria University.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of osteopathic palpatory examination on sympathetic nervous system function. Fourteen participants (6 male and 8 female volunteers, age range 20-23 years) completed this study. An osteopathic screening examination of the thoracic spine, involving the assessment of the active, passive, active resisted and accessory ranges of motion and palpation of adjacent soft tissues. The placebo condition involved the examiner standing behind the seated participant. The examiner placed their hands on the participant's thoracic spine for a period of 5 minutes. The control condition involved examiner standing behind the seated participant with no physical contact between them. This was maintained for a period of 5 minutes. Examination condition produced a statistically significant 6.8% decrease in skin conductance. Control and placebo conditions did not produce a significant change in skin conductance. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure and heart rate did not change significantly following the examination, control or placebo conditions. Osteopathic palpatory examination of the thoracic spine influences sympathetic nervous system function, significantly reducing electrical skin conductance. This minor thesis was written by a post-graduate student as part of the requirements of the Master of Health Science (Osteopathy) program.

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