Fascial unwinding of the lower extremities and its short-term effects on proprioception: an experimental study.

Item

Title
Fascial unwinding of the lower extremities and its short-term effects on proprioception: an experimental study.
Author(s)
Robert-Charrue, P
Abstract
Background: Recent studies indicate the presence of mechanoreceptors within the continuous fascia/ matrix; introducing it as a sensory organ, potentially playing an important role in proprioceptive feedback. However, there are no published studies investigating the effect of fascial unwinding on proprioception. Objective: To investigate the effect of fascial unwinding of the lower extremities on proprioceptive feedback as measured by the Wii Balance Board. Design: Randomized controlled study. Methods: Asymptomatic subjects were recruited. Exclusion criteria: any condition affecting balance, or previous injury to the lower extremity. Subjects were randomly divided into 2 groups; one receiving fascial unwinding of each lower limb and a control group. Three readings were taken on the Wii Balance Board with eyes closed before and after the intervention. Data analysis was performed using Analyze-it; datasets were tested for normality of distribution in Shapiro-Wilks test. Subsequently the Kruskal-Wallis test was used to determine differences between or within groups. Results; The control group's (n=31) and treatment group's (n=29) were homogenous across the baseline characteristics. The Kruskal-Wallis test (p>0.05) showed no significant difference in outcome measures in the fascial unwinding group compared to control group. Discussion: Fascial unwinding of the lower extremities did not affect proprioception in asymptomatic individuals. This study suggests that fascial unwinding on asymptomatic patients may not create an acute physiological effect to produce significant results. Research has underlined that fascia! unwinding generates significant changes in both short and long term to reduce pain, improve posture, and increase range of motion. However no research investigates the correlation between manual treatment of fascia and change in proprioceptive feedback. Conclusion: Fascial unwinding of the lower extremities did not produce a statistically significant effect on proprioceptive feedback in asymptomatic individuals. Further research is recommended on a symptomatic population.
Date Accepted
2016
Date Submitted
2.12.2016 17:29:04
Type
osteo_thesis
Language
English
Submitted by:
62
Pub-Identifier
15962
Inst-Identifier
1229
Keywords
Fascial unwinding, Ideomotor therapy, proprioception, Wii Balance board.
Recommended
0
Item sets
Thesis

Robert-Charrue, P, “Fascial unwinding of the lower extremities and its short-term effects on proprioception: an experimental study.”, Osteopathic Research Web, accessed May 2, 2025, https://www.osteopathic-research.com/s/orw/item/519