H-reflex Responses to High-Velocity Low-Amplitude Manipulation

High-Velocity Low-Amplitude (HVLA) manipulation is a known technique of the Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) for somatic dysfunction (SD), and heart rate variability and H-reflex response are possible variables to assess its neurophysiological effects. Somatic dysfunction is an impairment or altered function of related components of the somatic system. Studies show a transient attenuation of α-motor neuron excitability after HVLA manipulation in asymptomatic participants. According to studies, HVLA spinal manipulation increases joint mobility by blocking afferent impulses in the muscle spindle and the small-diameter free nerve, decreasing the γ-motor neuron activity.