Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine Digest
Welcome to the Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (or OMM) Digest. Explore our research projects, clinical and medical education programs and specialties, and our extracurricular organizations and activities.
Treatment of Concussion
Comparing the Effect of Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM) versus Concussion Education in the Treatment of Concussion
Concussion or mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a challenging injury for physicians to manage and is among the most serious disabling neurological disorders. Physician awareness regarding manifestations of TBI and subsequent treatment are paramount to reduce the burden of disease. Musculoskeletal and nervous system injuries post-concussion can result in somatic dysfunctions of the cranium and spine which can contribute to symptoms commonly experienced after concussion. OMM addresses musculoskeletal restrictions to allows for increased blood flow, increased lymphatic drainage, and decreased nerve impingements. Due to its potential structural and functional effects, Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) has the potential to address a patient’s concussion symptoms. Preliminary data demonstrated a significant decrease in concussion symptom number and severity with OMT versus concussion education as screened by the Symptom Concussion Assessment Test 3 (SCAT-3). Additionally, preliminary studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of OMT in improving dizziness and imbalance in patients. Our research studies at NYITCOM aims to determine whether OMT can improve concussion symptoms as measured by SCAT-3, Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment Cognitive Testing (ImPACT), King Devick Testing, and Pupil Size Measurements. Furthermore, it investigates whether OMT can affect balance problems through Sensory Organization Testing as well as the effects of OMT on the inflammatory biomarkers of concussion found in blood and urine. Through our studies we hope to establish OMT as an adjunctive treatment modality for concussion and mild TBI.
For more information regarding our concussion research please contact:
Email – NYITCOM Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine department: comomm1@nyit.edu or call 516-686-3799 and mention Concussion and OMM study – Dr. Sheldon Yao Principal Investigator