FUNCTIONAL EFFECTS OF MYOFASCIAL RELEASE AND JOINT MANIPULATION IN INDIVIDUALS WITH BACK PAIN

Abstract

Introduction: Thoracic spine pain is the second most commonly reported pain, but there is a shortage of studies comparing manual therapy techniques in this region. Thus, it is important to perform a comparison between myofascial release and a manipulative technique in individuals with chest pain. Objective: To compare myofascial release and joint manipulation techniques, combined and isolated in the treatment of individuals with thoracic dysfunction, assessing mobility, strength and function. Methods: This is a randomized, quantitative, interventional trial. The sample consisted of 32 individuals of both sexes with thoracic dysfunction, separated into Control Group (CG), Myofascial Release Group, Manipulation Group and Myofascial Release + Manipulation Group. We used a test of range of motion of the thoracic spine (Schober), performance of postural control of upper limbs (Y-test) and evaluation of muscle strength of the extensor chain (dynamometer). Results: Regarding the Schober results, the group that performed only myofascial release presented advantages over the other groups and also better effect sizes on mobility and function. No group presented significant results with respect to dynamometry. Conclusion: the group that received myofascial release had superior results regarding the improvement in mobility of the thoracic spine and function in relation to the other groups, but there was no difference in inter-group and intra-group muscle strength.