Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies

In 2005 John Licciardone, Angela Brimhall, and Linda King published a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials with the title: Osteopathic manipulative treatment for low back pain. The conclusions of systematic review and meta-analysis depend highly on the right search strategy, the quality of the included studies (internal validity) and the error-free, unbiased and transparent evaluation of the review. As illustrated by the following article Licciardone's review includes elements that could lead to biased results. It is concluded that Licciardone et al. focused too much on the statistical significance, and overlooked that the problem of the review lay not in the calculations but in the quality and compilation of the studies.

Abstract avaible here.

Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies

Acute and chronic musculoskeletal injuries are one of the major problems faced by those who practice any type of sport, regardless of whether they are professionals or amateurs. In this article, the authors highlight the action of "non-contractile" structures, in particular the myofascial system or muscle fascia, which can be responsible for the pathophysiology and healing process of muscular injuries. Manual therapy plays a predominant role in the treatment of these types of injuries and is key in the process of obtaining a scar capable of transmitting mechanical information.

Abstract avaible here.

European Spine Journal

Theories of pain generation include ligamentous or capsular tension, extraneous compression or shear forces, hypomobility or hypermobility, aberrant joint mechanics and imbalances in the myofascial or kinetic chain that result in inflammation and pain. Recently, the sacroiliac joint has gained increased attention as a source of persistent or new pain after lumbar/lumbosacral fusion. The underlying pathophysiology of SIJ pain may be increased mechanical load, iliac crest bone grafting, or a misdiagnosis of SIJ syndrome. Imaging studies show more frequent degeneration of the SIJ in patients with lumbar/lumbosacral fusion than in patients without such fusion.

Abstract avaible here.

European Spine Journal

Epidemiological studies show around 20 percent of all pregnancy women will develop pelvic girdle pain with continuing symptoms postpartum. Although individual factors such as mechanical, metabolic, traumatic, hormonal and degenerative are described as potential causes of PPGP recent literature suggests a combination of factors might better explain its underlying mechanism.

Abstract avaible here.