Effects of the diaphragm fascial inhibition maneuver on the cervical spine in patients with nonspecific cervicalgia

Abstract

The aim of the study was to analyze the influence of the lower thoracic diaphragm fascial inhibition maneuver on cervical mobility. A randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted. A sample of 30 patients was taken and divided into 2 groups of 15. Both groups were given a form to fill in with basic information, then an initial measurement of cervical movements was performed. In the treatment group, the fascial inhibition maneuver for the lower thoracic diaphragm was applied, and in the control group, a lower costal tap was performed with similar movements, but without direct contact with the muscle in question. Finally, measurements of cervical movements were performed with identical methodology prior to the intervention. A previously calibrated inclinometer was used to take the measurements. The results obtained between the treatment group and the control group coincide significantly in terms of joint range in cervical flexion, but not in the other movements, where no changes attributable to the maneuver applied are evident. Both groups had an increase in joint range in the flexion movement.