The AAO Journal, 2023/06, 33(2):27-28. doi: 10.53702/2375-5717-33.2.20, type of study: ,cr,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

Free full text   (https://meridian.allenpress.com/aaoj/article/33/2/20/493544/LBORC-NUFA-Poster-Abstracts-2023-Students)

Keywords:

case report [736]
geriatrics [141]
lower extremities [27]
male [860]
muscle energy technique [180]
OMT [3924]
osteopathic manipulative treatment [3945]
Parkinson&rsquo [7]
s disease [71]
stiffness [22]

Abstract:

Introduction/Background: Musculoskeletal complaints like muscle rigidity are common in PD patients, causing pain and impaired activities of daily living (ADLs) [1,2]. Past research validates the lower extremity functional scale’s (LEFS) reliability in assessing patient’s functional impairment [3]. Prior studies show that MET significantly decreases calf muscle stiffness, but not specifically in PD. The MyotonPRO device has been used previously as an objective and reliable tool to measure muscle stiffness [4]. Case: FG is a 67-year-old male with a 22-year history of PD, Hoehn and Yahr Scale 3, who presented with leg stiffness and pain. The LEFS survey was administered to assess functionality. The MyotonPRO measured stiffness of the anterior tibialis and medial and lateral gastrocnemius muscles before and after Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT). MET was used to treat somatic dysfunctions of the hip, knee, and ankle joints of the lower extremities bilaterally. Results: The patient reported increased range of motion, decreased stiffness and decreased pain immediately post-treatment. MyotonPro measurements of the medial and lateral gastrocnemius showed a significant decrease in stiffness from pre-treatment (M=337, SD=61) to post-treatment (M=261, SD=26), t(3)=2.95, p=0.030 and relaxation levels increased from pre-treatment (M=17, SD=3) to post-treatment (M=23, SD=2), t(3)=9.44, p=0.001. At one week follow up his LEFS score improved from 62 pre-treatment to 70. Discussion: This case demonstrates quantitative improvement in lower extremity muscle stiffness and LEFS scores after MET in a PD patient. The findings set a precedent for potential benefits of MET in improving pain and functionality in PD. Further research exploring the effects of OMT on muscle properties and lower extremity functionality in PD patients are warranted.