Strain-counterstrain versus muscle energy technique in sacroiliac joint dysfunction

Abstract

Background: The sacroiliac joint (SIJ) has been long considered an important source of low back pain because its prevalence varies from 10% to 30% with axial low back pain. Several manual techniques were used in SIJ dysfunction (SIJD) treatment as manipulation, muscle energy technique (MET), strain-counterstrain (SCS), and mobilization. However, there is little evidence about the efficacy of MET and SCS have been reported. Design: Randomized controlled trial. Setting: Evaluation and treatment were taken at Warraq Central hospital and El-Sahel hospital in the Giza governorate, Egypt. Purpose: Examine the effect of (SCS) versus (MET) on pain pressure threshold (PPT), functional disability, and the innominate angle tilt with SIJ dysfunction. Methods: Fifty-six patients with SIJD were recruited and randomly assigned to receive treatment with either SCS or MET. The outcomes were PPT by Pressure algometer and functional disability by Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and the innominate angle tilt by Palpation Meter (PALM). All outcomes were assessed at pre and post intervention and frequency of treatment was 3 sessions/week for 4 weeks.