| Revision as of 11:40, 2 June 2007 editRjwilmsi (talk | contribs)Extended confirmed users, Pending changes reviewers, Rollbackers931,877 editsm Typo & format fix, Typos fixed: succesfully → successfully, using AWB← Previous edit | Revision as of 12:08, 2 June 2007 edit undoValjean (talk | contribs)Autopatrolled, Extended confirmed users, IP block exemptions, Pending changes reviewers, Rollbackers95,274 edits →Technique: NPOVed and made relevant for all practitionersNext edit → | ||
| Line 3: | Line 3: | ||
| == Technique == | == Technique == | ||
| The |
The practitioner begins by making a three-plane diagnosis of ]. The practitioner positions the patient at the "feather edge" of the restrictive barrier--the pathologic end of range of passive motion which is encountered before the anatomical end of range of motion. The practitioner then vectors a rapid, low-amplitude impulse into the barrier. This small, quick thrust rapidly moves through the barrier, restoring range of motion and possibly relieving somatic dysfunction. Often, this thrust will result in a clearly audible "crack" or "pop" sound. | ||
| Successful HVLA may or may not cause "cracking" at the targeted point. |
Successful HVLA may or may not cause "cracking" at the targeted point. Successful performance of the technique is often attributed to hearing the sound, and many patients and practitioners may errantly assume that the technique failed if it is not heard. Frequently, however, there will be no audible "crack" or "pop" whenever a the technique is successfully performed. This is the reason why the practitioner must always re-check the area of the body in question after the attempted treatment. This is a safeguard against further futile attempts at correction. | ||
| == Sources == | == Sources == | ||
Revision as of 12:08, 2 June 2007
High velocity low amplitude thrust (HVLA) is a manipulative therapy technique used by practitioners in several professions, among them chiropractors, physical therapists, and physicians (both osteopathic physicians and medical doctors), to treat somatic dysfunction and joint-related problems.
Technique
The practitioner begins by making a three-plane diagnosis of somatic dysfunction. The practitioner positions the patient at the "feather edge" of the restrictive barrier--the pathologic end of range of passive motion which is encountered before the anatomical end of range of motion. The practitioner then vectors a rapid, low-amplitude impulse into the barrier. This small, quick thrust rapidly moves through the barrier, restoring range of motion and possibly relieving somatic dysfunction. Often, this thrust will result in a clearly audible "crack" or "pop" sound.
Successful HVLA may or may not cause "cracking" at the targeted point. Successful performance of the technique is often attributed to hearing the sound, and many patients and practitioners may errantly assume that the technique failed if it is not heard. Frequently, however, there will be no audible "crack" or "pop" whenever a the technique is successfully performed. This is the reason why the practitioner must always re-check the area of the body in question after the attempted treatment. This is a safeguard against further futile attempts at correction.
Sources
- Ward, Robert C. et al; Foundations for Osteopathic Medicine (2nd ed.). Philadelphia: Lippincot Williams and Wilkins. ISBN 0-7817-3497-5.