A Comparison of Functional Manual Reaction to Passive Joint Mobilization on Dorsiflexion and Star Excursion Reach Distance

Context: Joint mobilizations (JM) and functional manual reaction (FMR) are techniques commonly utilized in rehabilitation to promote restoration of ankle dorsiflexion (DF). Additionally, it is possible that JM have an effect upon postural control. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the comparative immediate effects of JM and FMR on DF and Star Excursion Balance (SEBT) reach distance in healthy subjects. Design: Randomized controlled trial. Setting: A university laboratory. Patients or other participants: We included 43 college aged subjects for our investigation (20M, 23F). Main outcome variables: Our variables were straight knee DF, bent knee DF, anterior SEBT, posteromedial SEBT, and posterolateral SEBT. Results: No significant effects were found as a result of either treatment for straight knee DF (p = 0.155), bent knee (p = 0.937), anterior SEBT (p = 0.311), posteromedial SEBT (p=0.105), or posterolateral SEBT (p=0.382). Conclusions: We concluded that a single session of JM and FMR are not sufficient to cause an immediate effect on DF or SEBT balance