An investigation into the effects of applying a lumbar Maitland mobilisation at different frequencies on sympathetic nervous system activity levels in the lower limb

Background: Oscillatory segmental Maitland mobilisations are commonly used in the management of lower back pain and segmental joint restriction. Research in this area suggests that joint mobilisations at a frequency of 2Hz (120 oscillations per minute) may excite the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) to a greater magnitude than sustained pressure glides or 0.5Hz oscillatory mobilisations and that sympathetic excitability is linked to mechanical hypoalgesia. The current study sought to explore how increasing the frequency of oscillation (to 3 Hz/180 oscillations per minute) might influence SNS response in the lower limb.
Source: Manual Therapy - Category: Physiotherapy Authors: Source Type: research