The AAO Journal, 2014/06, 24(2):23, type of study: ,cr,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

Free full text   (https://www.academyofosteopathy.org/aaoj)

Keywords:

fibular nerve palsy [1]
female [655]
women [608]
lower extremity pain [1]
osteopathic manipulative treatment [3946]
OMT [3925]
case report [736]
conference abstract [127]

Abstract:

Context: This study was designed to present a case in which osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM) was used to treat a patient for common fibular nerve entrapment. Methods: A previously healthy 50-year-old female patient with a 2-month history of tripping on flat surfaces presented to an osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM) clinic for osteopathic evaluation and treatment. Electromyography (EMG) nerve testing completed prior to treatment was consistent with right common fibular nerve palsy. The patient presented clinically with right lower extremity pain, weakness, and decreased sensation over the lateral right leg and foot. Osteopathic examination was most significant for myofascial strain and a posterior fibular head. The patient was treated for these findings in conjunction with other significant areas of somatic dysfunction using a variety of osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) techniques. Results: Over the course of several treatments, the patient’s response was notable for decreased episodes of pain and discomfort of her right lower extremity, as well as decreased foot drop. Neurologist follow-up and repeat EMG after four months of OMT found some improvement in conduction velocity of the right common fibular nerve. Conclusion: Our patient presented with foot drop and pain in the right lower extremity, and on review of the literature, these symptoms were found to correlate with an osteopathic finding of posterior fibular head. This case demonstrates both clinical improvement and EMG alteration after providing OMT for common fibular neuropathy. Further studies with objective or neurologic results should be conducted to determine the efficacy of OMT and support the use of this treatment modality in clinical cases.