Nerve compression syndromes as models for research on osteopathic manipulative treatment.

Experimental and clinical studies of nerve compression syndromes show that ischemia or edema, singly or combined, causes responses in nerves that lead to alterations in impulse conduction and to commonly observed clinical signs. Because osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) is thought to affect microcirculation and anatomic positioning of structures, nerve compression syndromes appear ideal as models for studying how OMT accomplishes results. We recommend that researchers develop experimental protocols or clinical studies of nerve compression syndromes that will use anatomic, histologic, and physiologic criteria to monitor the effects of OMT. Techniques such as soft tissue, muscle energy, counterstrain, or myofascial release are appropriate for study in nerve compression syndromes. Such studies are necessary to understand the biologic basis of OMT.