Variations of Heart Rate Variability and Skin Conductance Reveal the Influence of CV4 and Rib Raising Osteopathic Techniques on the Autonomic Nervous System: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Background. Heart rate variability (HRV) and skin conductance (SC) highlight autonomic activity and the balance of autonomic nervous system (ANS) which regulates involuntary physiological functions. The modulation of ANS tonic activity is a target of osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT). The main aim of the present study was to verify whether CV4 and RR osteopathic techniques influence ANS activity.

Trial design. A randomized-controlled clinical trial was performed from June 2010 to January 2011.

Methods. 32 healthy adults were selected. At enrollment, all healthy subjects were randomized in three groups: CV4 group (CV4 technique), Rib Raising group (RR technique), and Placebo group (PL technique). HRV and SC was recorded during the session respectively with heart rate monitor Polar S810i and with Onda Scanner Domiana (OSD-Microsale model). All data analysis was performed using SPSS statistical software and the significance level set at p≤0.05.