The aim of this study was to examine how FM affects not only physical functioning, but also psychological and physiological aspects, and to explore its potential as a holistic approach.
FM was conducted with 17 adults with unexplained physical or autonomic symptoms. FM assessment and treatment was carried out by a Certified Fascial Manipulation® Specialist certified by the Italian FM Association. Each intervention lasted approximately 60 minutes and was performed three times, once a month. Measurements included degree of main complaints (Numerical Rating Scale: NRS), thoracic flexion range of motion, Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS), Depression and Anxiety Mood Scale (DAMS), psychological stress response scale (SRS-18), autonomic equilibrium level, hair cortisol levels. For statistical analysis, correlation coefficients between main complaints and each assessment item were calculated using Pearson's product moment correlation coefficient for FM intervention effects, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare each assessment item before, one month, two months and five months after the intervention. Bonferroni's multiple comparison test was used for post-tests, with a significance level of 5% (p0.05).
The results of a one-way analysis of variance showed that FM intervention resulted in a significant improvement in spinal range of motion. There was also an improvement in autonomic equilibrium, a decrease in anxiety and mood scales, and an increase in positive mood. In addition, depression and anxiety scores on the DAMS were significantly reduced and AIS improved. In addition, there was a significant improvement in main complaints following the intervention. Correlation analysis showed that autonomic complaints were significantly correlated with the SRS-18, autonomic equilibrium level, depression and anxiety on the DAMS and cortisol levels.
It was suggested that FM may be effective as a treatment modality to change unidentified complaints and autonomic symptoms and to produce multifaceted effects on the body (improvement of range of motion), mind (Reduces stress, anxiety, and depression), and brain (improvement of autonomic function)
This study shows the new potential of FM, an approach targeting Fascia, as a comprehensive stress management method for the brain-body-mind and can be proposed as a new approach. Comparative studies with other approaches will be conducted in the future.
Manual therapy
Autonomic nervous system
