Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies RSS feed: Current Issue. The Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies brings you the latest therapeutic techniques and current professional debate. Publishing highly illustrated articles on a wide range of subjects this journal is immediately relevant to everyday clinical practice in private, community and primary health care settings. Techniques featured include: • Physical Therapy • Osteopathy • Chiropractic • Massage Therapy • Structural Integration • Feldenkrais • Yoga Therapy • Dance • Physiotherapy • Pilates • Alexander Technique • Shiatsu and Tuina • Occupational Therapy • Tai Chi / Qi Gong • Cranial Therapy • Neuromuscular Therapy • Lymph Drainage • Myofascial Therapy • Applied Kinesiology Essential reading for all those involved in the assessment, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal dysfunction. http://www.bodyworkmovementtherapies.com/?rss=yesElsevier Inc.en © 2011 Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies1360-8592161January 2012 © 2011 Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. healthpermissions@elsevier.comhttp://www.bodyworkmovementtherapies.com/article/PIIS1360859211001690/abstract?rss=yesEditorial Board10.1016/S1360-8592(11)00169-0Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 16, 1 (2012)2012-01-01Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies2012-01-01161S1360-8592(11)X0005-0iiihttp://www.bodyworkmovementtherapies.com/article/PIIS1360859211001604/abstract?rss=yesIn this first editorial of JBMTs Volume16 I wish to give credit to the unsung heroes of each issue – the reviewers. Reviewers receive minimal reward for their efforts which can be extremely time consuming, requiring as it does, dedicated focus. Reviewers are unpaid apart from a gratis subscription, and all too often go unrecognised, despite being a key part of a system that ultimately depends on their diligent work.Recognising reviewersLeon Chaitow10.1016/j.jbmt.2011.10.003Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 16, 1 (2012)2011-11-07Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies2011-11-07161S1360-8592(11)X0005-0Editorial11http://www.bodyworkmovementtherapies.com/article/PIIS1360859211001537/abstract?rss=yesIn the series of Fascial Release Case Studies, two patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) were recently described who had reduced pain and enhanced functional mobility following structural integration-based Fascial Release Therapy (FRT) (). This paper was only the second report in JBMT to describe patients with any form of systemic rheumatic connective tissue diseases (CTDs). A preceding report described effects of FRT in a patient with diffuse cutaneous (dc) systemic sclerosis (SSc) ().Commentary on myofascial release therapy in systemic lupus erythematosus and sclerodermaAlfonse T. Masi, Thomas A. Medsger, Sam J. Betts10.1016/j.jbmt.2011.09.001Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 16, 1 (2012)2011-10-04Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies2011-10-04161S1360-8592(11)X0005-0Commentary and Reply24http://www.bodyworkmovementtherapies.com/article/PIIS1360859211001549/abstract?rss=yesThe author wishes first of all to thank Messrs. Masi, Medsger, and Betts for their letter commenting on her article, ‘Structural integration-based fascial release efficacy in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): Two case studies’, which was recently published in: Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 2011, 15 (2), 217–225.Author’s reply to the letter to the editor entitled ‘SLE is not part of the scleroderma spectrum for considerations of fascial release therapy’ co-authored by Alfonse T. Masi, Thomas A. Medsger, Jr., Sam J. BettsT. Ball10.1016/j.jbmt.2011.09.002Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 16, 1 (2012)2011-10-12Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies2011-10-12161S1360-8592(11)X0005-0Commentary and Reply46http://www.bodyworkmovementtherapies.com/article/PIIS1360859210001385/abstract?rss=yesSummary: Background and purpose: Balance and mobility impairments are common in persons with multiple sclerosis (MS). The primary purpose of this pilot program was to evaluate the feasibility and the effects of group kickboxing on balance and mobility in individuals with MS.Methods: Four individuals with relapsing–remitting or secondary progressive MS participated in a group kickboxing program two times per week for 8 weeks. Outcome measures included the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Dynamic Gait Index (DGI), Timed Up and Go (TUG), walking speed and the Activities Specific Balance Confidence Scale (ABC).Results: Following training, 3 of 4 participants had improvements in BBS performance. All participants demonstrated improvements in the DGI. Changes in the TUG, ABC, and walking speed were more variable.Conclusion: Group kickboxing appears to be a feasible exercise activity for individuals with MS and may lead to improvement in select measures of balance. Further investigation may be warranted.Feasibility and effects of a group kickboxing program for individuals with multiple sclerosis: A pilot reportKurt Jackson, Kimberly Edginton-Bigelow, Camille Bowsheir, Melissa Weston, Ember Grant10.1016/j.jbmt.2010.09.002Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 16, 1 (2012)2011-06-15Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies2011-06-15161S1360-8592(11)X0005-0Pilot Report: Multiple Sclerosis and Balance713http://www.bodyworkmovementtherapies.com/article/PIIS1360859210001890/abstract?rss=yesSummary: The role of the brain in post-stroke gait is not understood properly, although the ability to walk becomes impaired in more than 80% of post-stroke patients. Most, however, regain some ability to walk with either limited mobility or inefficient, asymmetrical or unsafe gait. Conventional intervention focuses on support of weak muscles or body part by use of foot orthosis and walking aids. This review provides an overview of available evidence of neuro-kinesiology & neurophysiology of normal and post-stroke gait. The role of the spinal cord has been explored, more in animals than humans. Mammalian locomotion is based on a rhythmic, “pacemaker” activity of the spinal stepping generators. Bipedal human locomotion is different from quadripedal animal locomotion. However, knowledge derived from the spinal cord investigation of animals, is being applied for management of human gait dysfunction. The potential role of the brain is now recognized in the independent activation of muscles during walking. The brain modifies the gait pattern during the complex demands of daily activities. Though the exact role of the motor cortex in control of gait is unclear, available evidence may be applied to gait rehabilitation of post-stroke patients.Understanding gait control in post-stroke: Implications for managementRajesh Verma, Kamal Narayan Arya, Pawan Sharma, R.K. Garg10.1016/j.jbmt.2010.12.005Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 16, 1 (2012)2011-06-15Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies2011-06-15161S1360-8592(11)X0005-0Rehabilitation Neuro-Kinesiology: Neurophysiology Review1421http://www.bodyworkmovementtherapies.com/article/PIIS1360859211000192/abstract?rss=yesSummary: Increase in tissue blood flow is one of the most acknowledged potential effects of massage; however, actual research studies examining this phenomenon are inconsistent and inconclusive. One possible reason for continued uncertainty regarding this topic is methodology, specifically how tissue blood flow is measured because limitations exist in previously utilized technologies. Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) affords massage researchers a versatile and non-invasive measurement option by providing dynamic information on oxy- and deoxy-hemoglobin concentrations, total hemoglobin concentration, and blood oxygen saturation in deep tissue. Near-infrared diffuse correlation spectroscopy (DCS) is an innovative technique for continuous non-invasive measurement of blood flow in deep tissue. The combination of these two technologies has resulted in a novel hybrid diffuse optical instrument for simultaneous measurement of limb muscle blood flow and oxygenation. The purposes of this short report are to review previous blood flow measurement techniques and limitations in massage therapy research, introduce a novel hybrid near-infrared diffuse optical instrument that addresses previous limitations in the assessment of hemodynamic properties, outline a proposed massage therapy pilot study utilizing the novel measurement technology, and present sample data from a pilot participant using the introduced novel technology.Noninvasively measuring the hemodynamic effects of massage on skeletal muscle: A novel hybrid near-infrared diffuse optical instrumentNiki Munk, Brock Symons, Yu Shang, Ran Cheng, Guoqiang Yu10.1016/j.jbmt.2011.01.018Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 16, 1 (2012)2011-06-15Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies2011-06-15161S1360-8592(11)X0005-0Original Research2228http://www.bodyworkmovementtherapies.com/article/PIIS136085921100026X/abstract?rss=yesSummary: Objectives: To compare the effect of sacroiliac joint (SIJ) manipulation with SIJ and lumbar manipulation for the treatment of SIJ syndrome.Methods: Thirty-two women with SIJ syndrome were randomly divided into two groups of 16 subjects. One group received the high-velocity low-amplitude (HVLA) manipulation to the SIJ and the other group received both SIJ and lumbar HVLA manipulation to both the SIJ and lumbar spine in a single session. The outcomes were assessed using visual analogue scale (VAS) at baseline, immediately, 48 h and one month after the treatment for pain and also Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) questionnaire at baseline, 48 h and one month after the treatment.Results: Analysis revealed a statistically significant improvement immediately, at 48 h and one month after treatment for pain and significant improvement at 48 h and one month after treatment for functional disability in the SIJ manipulated group. A significant improvement immediately, at 48 h and one month after treatment for pain and significant improvement at 48 h and one month after treatment for functional disability in the SIJ and lumbar manipulated group was also found. Furthermore, there were significant differences within groups in ODI and VAS when using Friedman test in both groups. By using Wilcoxon rank sum test no differences were observed in change scores between the two groups immediately, 48 h and one month after the treatment for VAS, or after 48h and one month after the treatment for the ODI.Conclusion: A single session of SIJ and lumbar manipulation was more effective for improving functional disability than SIJ manipulation alone in patients with SIJ syndrome. Spinal HVLA manipulation may be a beneficial addition to treatment for patients with SIJ syndrome.The effect of two manipulative therapy techniques and their outcome in patients with sacroiliac joint syndromeFahimeh Kamali, Esmaeil Shokri10.1016/j.jbmt.2011.02.002Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 16, 1 (2012)2011-06-15Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies2011-06-15161S1360-8592(11)X0005-0Comparative Study2935http://www.bodyworkmovementtherapies.com/article/PIIS1360859211000556/abstract?rss=yesSummary: The typical model used by movement professionals to enhance performance relies on the notion that a linear increase in load results in steady and progressive gains, whereby, the greater the effort, the greater the gains in performance.Introduction: Traditional approaches to movement progression typically rely on the proper sequencing of extrinsically based activities to facilitate the individual in reaching performance objectives. However, physical rehabilitation or physical performance rarely progresses in such a linear fashion; instead they tend to evolve non-linearly and rather unpredictably. A dynamic system can be described as an entity that self-organizes into increasingly complex forms. Applying this view to the human body, practitioners could facilitate non-linear performance gains through a systems based programming approach.Systemic Model: Utilizing a dynamic systems view, the Holistic Approach to Movement Education (HADME) is a model designed to optimize performance by accounting for non-linear and self-organizing traits associated with human movement. In this model, gains in performance occur through advancing individual perspectives and through optimizing sub-system performance. This inward shift of the focus of performance creates a sharper self-awareness and may lead to more optimal movements.A holistic approach to movement education in sport and fitness: A systems based modelMyles Jay Polsgrove10.1016/j.jbmt.2011.02.005Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 16, 1 (2012)2011-06-15Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies2011-06-15161S1360-8592(11)X0005-0Movement Education3641http://www.bodyworkmovementtherapies.com/article/PIIS1360859211000751/abstract?rss=yesSummary: Evidence-based medicine (EBM) is beset with numerous problems. In addition to the fact that varied audiences have each customarily sought differing types of evidence, EBM traditionally incorporated a hierarchy of clinical research designs, placing systematic reviews and meta-analyses at the pinnacle. Yet the canonical pyramid of EBM excludes numerous sources of research information, such as basic research, epidemiology, and health services research. Models of EBM commonly used by third party payers have ignored clinical judgment and patient values and expectations, which together form a tripartite and more realistic guideline to effective clinical care. Added to this is the problem in which enhanced placebo treatments in experimentation may obscure verum effects seen commonly in practice. Compounding the issue is that poor systematic reviews which comprise a significant portion of EBM are prone to subjective bias in their inclusion criteria and methodological scoring, shown to skew outcomes. Finally, the blinding concept of randomized controlled trials is particularly problematic in applications of physical medicine. Examples from the research literature in physical medicine highlight conclusions which are open to debate. More progressive components of EBM are recommended, together with greater recognition of the varying audiences employing EBM.Evidence-based medicine: Revisiting the pyramid of prioritiesAnthony L. Rosner10.1016/j.jbmt.2011.05.003Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 16, 1 (2012)2011-06-27Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies2011-06-27161S1360-8592(11)X0005-0Critical Review4249http://www.bodyworkmovementtherapies.com/article/PIIS1360859211001069/abstract?rss=yesSummary: Introduction and hypothesis: Female chronic pelvic pain is prevalent and causes disability. Can women with self-reported chronic pelvic pain (CPP) be distinguished from pain-free women by demonstrating a greater number of abnormal musculoskeletal findings on examination?Methods: In this cross-sectional study, blinded examiners performed 9 physical exam maneuvers on 48 participants; 19 with CPP, and 29 pain-free. Frequency of positive findings between groups, total number of positive exam findings, cluster analysis, and sensitivity - specificity analyses were performed.Results: Women with CPP presented with significantly more abnormal findings than pain-free women. By using two examination maneuvers, examiners correctly classified women with self-reported CPP from pain-free women 85% of the time.Conclusions: Abnormal findings on musculoskeletal exam are more common in women with self-reported CPP. Women with CPP might benefit from a faster time to diagnosis and improved treatment outcomes if a musculoskeletal contribution to CPP was identified earlier.Highlights: ► Blinded examiners performed nine physical exam maneuvers on female participants with and without chronic pelvic pain (CPP). ► Women with CPP presented with more abnormal musculoskeletal findings than pain free women, and examiners correctly classified women with CPP 85% of the time. ► Whether a cause or effect of CPP, the musculoskeletal system in women with CPP can be compromised. ► Women with CPP may benefit from a faster time to diagnosis and improved outcomes if musculoskeletal contributions to CPP are identified earlier.A preliminary report of musculoskeletal dysfunction in female chronic pelvic pain: A blinded study of examination findingsCynthia E. Neville, Colleen M. Fitzgerald, Trudy Mallinson, Suzanne Badillo, Christina Hynes, Frank Tu10.1016/j.jbmt.2011.06.002Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 16, 1 (2012)2011-07-07Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies2011-07-07161S1360-8592(11)X0005-0Cross-sectional Study: Examination Procedures5056http://www.bodyworkmovementtherapies.com/article/PIIS1360859211000702/abstract?rss=yesSummary: The purpose of this study was to investigate the therapeutic effects of traditional Thai massage (TTM) on pain intensity, pressure pain threshold (PPT), muscle tension and anxiety associated with scapulocostal syndrome (SCS). Twenty patients were randomly allocated to receive a 30-min session of either TTM or physical therapy modalities (PT: ultrasound therapy and hot pack) for 9 sessions over a period of 3 weeks. Pain intensity, PPT, muscle tension and anxiety were measured before and immediately after the first treatment session, 1 day after the last treatment session and 2 weeks after the last treatment session. Results indicated that the TTM group showed a significant improvement in all parameters after the first treatment session and at 1 day and 2 weeks after the last treatment session (p   0.05). We therefore suggest that TTM could be an alternative treatment for the patient with SCS.Therapeutic effects of traditional Thai massage on pain, muscle tension and anxiety in patients with scapulocostal syndrome: A randomized single-blinded pilot studyVitsarut Buttagat, Wichai Eungpinichpong, Uraiwon Chatchawan, Preeda Arayawichanon10.1016/j.jbmt.2011.04.005Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 16, 1 (2012)2011-06-23Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies2011-06-23161S1360-8592(11)X0005-0Randomized Comparative Study5763http://www.bodyworkmovementtherapies.com/article/PIIS1360859211001641/abstract?rss=yesIt is with great pleasure in this inaugural fascial section of JBMT to introduce the Third International Fascia congress to be held March 28–30 2012 in Vancouver BC. The 1st International Fascia Research Congress was held at the Conference Center, Harvard Medical School in October 2007, and was followed by the Second in Amsterdam in 2009. Multiple other smaller congresses addressing fascia are now appearing in the United States and Europe, and keynote speakers from the earlier fascia congresses have injected fascial concepts into many other scientific meetings. But the International Fascia Congress remains the leader, with each one selecting new keynote speakers who expand our knowledge of fascia. For the Third Congress in 2012, there are seven; these will be supplemented by the more than 120 abstracts submitted by scientists and clinicians. The hallmark of the fascia congresses is interaction between clinicians and scientists which is reflected in its theme: Fascia Research – What do we Notice and What do we Know – continuing the clinician-scientist dialogue. Particular effort is being made to incorporate clinical translation immediately following scientific presentations, and vice versa.EditorialThomas W. Findley10.1016/j.jbmt.2011.11.001Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 16, 1 (2012)2011-11-28Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies2011-11-28161S1360-8592(11)X0005-0Editorial6466http://www.bodyworkmovementtherapies.com/article/PIIS1360859211001562/abstract?rss=yesSummary: This article reviews fascia research from our laboratory and puts this in the context of recent progress in fascia research which has greatly expanded during the past seven or eight years. Some readers may not be familiar with the terminology used in fascia research articles and are referred to for a glossary of terms used in fascia-related articles.Fascia research – A narrative reviewThomas Findley, Hans Chaudhry, Antonio Stecco, Max Roman10.1016/j.jbmt.2011.09.004Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 16, 1 (2012)2012-01-01Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies2012-01-01161S1360-8592(11)X0005-0Mathematical Fascial Modelling6775http://www.bodyworkmovementtherapies.com/article/PIIS1360859211000544/abstract?rss=yesSummary: Objective: Peritoneal adhesions are almost ubiquitous following surgery. Peritoneal adhesions can lead to bowel obstruction, digestive problems, infertility, and pain, resulting in many hospital readmissions. Many approaches have been used to prevent or treat adhesions, but none offer reliable results. A method that consistently prevented or treated adhesions would benefit many patients. We hypothesized that an anatomically-based visceral mobilization, designed to promote normal mobility of the abdominal contents, could manually lyse and prevent surgically-induced adhesions.Material and methods: Cecal and abdominal wall abrasion was used to induce adhesions in 3 groups of 10 rats (Control, Lysis, and Preventive). All rats were evaluated 7 days following surgery. On postoperative day 7, unsedated rats in the Lysis group were treated using visceral mobilization, consisting of digital palpation, efforts to manually lyse restrictions, and mobilization of their abdominal walls and viscera. This was followed by immediate post-mortem adhesion evaluation. The rats in the Preventive group were treated daily in a similar fashion, starting the day after surgery. Adhesions in the Control rats were evaluated 7 days after surgery without any visceral mobilization.Results: The therapist could palpate adhesions between the cecum and other viscera or the abdominal wall. Adhesion severity and number of adhesions were significantly lower in the Preventive group compared to other groups. In the Lysis and Preventive groups there were clear signs of disrupted adhesions.Conclusions: These initial observations support visceral mobilization may have a role in the prevention and treatment of post-operative adhesions.Visceral mobilization can lyse and prevent peritoneal adhesions in a rat modelGeoffrey M. Bove, Susan L. Chapelle10.1016/j.jbmt.2011.02.004Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 16, 1 (2012)2011-06-15Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies2011-06-15161S1360-8592(11)X0005-0Original Research7682http://www.bodyworkmovementtherapies.com/article/PIIS1360859210001099/abstract?rss=yesSummary: A theoretical framework for the role that fascia may play in apparently diverse passive manual therapies is presented. The relevant anatomy of fascia is briefly reviewed. Therapies are divided into myofascial (‘soft tissue’) and manipulative (‘joint-based’) and comparisons are made between them on a qualitative basis using measures of pain, function and ‘autonomic activation’. When these three outcomes are evaluated between therapies it is observed that they are usually comparable in the quality, if not the quantity of the measures. Viewed from a patients’ perspective alone the therapeutic benefits are hard to distinguish. It is proposed that a biologically plausible mechanism which may generate a significant component of the observed effects of manual therapies of all descriptions, is the therapeutic stimulation of fascia in its various forms within the body. Such considerations may help explain why diverse therapies apparently give comparable results.A theoretical framework for the role of fascia in manual therapyNigel Simmonds, Peter Miller, Hugh Gemmell10.1016/j.jbmt.2010.08.001Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 16, 1 (2012)2011-06-15Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies2011-06-15161S1360-8592(11)X0005-0Hypothesis8393http://www.bodyworkmovementtherapies.com/article/PIIS1360859211001550/abstract?rss=yesSummary: This study examined a potential cellular basis for strain hardening of fascial tissues: an increase in stiffness induced by stretch and subsequent rest. Mice lumbodorsal fascia were isometrically stretched for 15min followed by 30min rest (n=16). An increase in stiffness was observed in the majority of samples, including the nonviable control samples. Investigations with porcine lumbar fascia explored hydration changes as an explanation (n=24). Subject to similar loading procedures, tissues showed decreases in fluid content immediately post-stretch and increases during rest phases. When allowed sufficient resting time, a super-compensation phenomenon was observed, characterised by matrix hydration higher than initial levels and increases in tissue stiffness. Therefore, fascial strain hardening does not seem to rely on cellular contraction, but rather on this super-compensation. Given a comparable occurrence of this behaviour in vivo, clinical application of routines for injury prevention merit exploration.Strain hardening of fascia: Static stretching of dense fibrous connective tissues can induce a temporary stiffness increase accompanied by enhanced matrix hydrationRobert Schleip, Lutz Duerselen, Andry Vleeming, Ian L. Naylor, Frank Lehmann-Horn, Adjo Zorn, Heike Jaeger, Werner Klingler10.1016/j.jbmt.2011.09.003Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 16, 1 (2012)2011-12-07Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies2011-12-07161S1360-8592(11)X0005-0Fascia Physiology94100http://www.bodyworkmovementtherapies.com/article/PIIS1360859211001616/abstract?rss=yesPilates, together with other exercise systems, is an active approach to a clients neuromusculoskeletal system. It involves the client ‘doing’ as opposed to a therapy that takes the form of a passive treatment in which a therapist performs the work. By the time a client decides to take Pilates classes they have already bought into the concept of taking an active physical role in achieving whatever goal they are seeking to attain.Pilates: Release or recruit?Warrick McNeill10.1016/j.jbmt.2011.10.004Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 16, 1 (2012)2011-11-21Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies2011-11-21161S1360-8592(11)X0005-0Editorial101104http://www.bodyworkmovementtherapies.com/article/PIIS1360859211001628/abstract?rss=yesExercise primarily works on muscles, and the connection of the central nervous system to them. What Pilates teachers see every day are muscles that are short or exhibit tightness and muscles that are inactive or under recruited. When approaching a client’s exercise needs it is essential to have a reasoned ‘through line’ for the session. Should the focus be on releasing the tight muscles or recruiting the under active ones? Which approach will ensure a change that will last? Joseph Pilates said that “true flexibility can be achieved only when all muscles are uniformly developed.” ().Pilates: Practical thoughts on release or recruit?Suzy Barton, Warrick McNeill10.1016/j.jbmt.2011.10.005Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 16, 1 (2012)2011-11-28Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies2011-11-28161S1360-8592(11)X0005-0Editorial104108http://www.bodyworkmovementtherapies.com/article/PIIS1360859211001045/abstract?rss=yesSummary: Objective: The purpose of this systematic review was to determine how Pilates exercises have impacted body composition (BC) on selected populations.Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed using the keywords ‘Pilates, body composition, systematic review, literature review, overweight, obesity, healthy weight, underweight’ and their combination.Results: Seven studies met the inclusion criteria and after further quality analyses it was determined that there is currently poor empirical quantitative evidence indicating a positive effect of Pilates exercises on BC. Several methodological flaws were observed in the studies analyzed, including few full-text published studies looking into the effects of Pilates exercises on BC, a lack of true experimental research designs, limited standardization in measurement techniques, insufficient or no control of the nutritional status, and inconsistent instructor qualifications.Conclusion: Well-designed research is needed to determine how Pilates exercises impact BC on selected populations.The effect of Pilates exercises on body composition: A systematic reviewArián R. Aladro-Gonzalvo, Míriam Machado-Díaz, José Moncada-Jiménez, Jessenia Hernández-Elizondo, Gerardo Araya-Vargas10.1016/j.jbmt.2011.06.001Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 16, 1 (2012)2011-07-04Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies2011-07-04161S1360-8592(11)X0005-0Systematic Review109114http://www.bodyworkmovementtherapies.com/article/PIIS1360859211000684/abstract?rss=yesSummary: Objective: This study seeks to find out the impact of massage techniques, including myofascial and muscle energy techniques, on the symptoms of pain, muscular hypertonicity, and structural misalignment associated with isthmic lumbar spondylolisthesis.Methods: A 30-year-old female was diagnosed with spondylolisthesis at age 12, has chronic mild to moderate back pain during prolonged walking/standing, hyperlordosis and anterior rotation of the pelvis. A 7-session treatment series of muscle energy techniques, and a type of myofascial bodywork known as active myofascial technique, was carried out, measuring rotational changes of the ilia, and the length of standing/walking time before low back pain onset.Results: The onset of low back pain was delayed during walking/standing over the course of treatment, hyperlordosis decreased, and hypertonicity of iliopsoas and quadrates lumborum muscles decreased. Bilateral net reduction of illial rotation was achieved, but with irregular changes.Conclusion: Due to inconsistent and unreliable data, results were not conclusive. However, this study brings into question the role of hip flexor and spinal extensor muscles in normalizing postural misalignment associated with spondylolisthesis. It also highlights the importance of precise and detailed measures in massage research, as well the function of body awareness in this condition. Future research is needed to support the efficacy of massage therapy as a conservative strategy for lumbar isthmic spondylolisthesis.Case report: The effects of massage therapy on lumbar spondylolisthesisShannon Halpin10.1016/j.jbmt.2011.04.003Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 16, 1 (2012)2011-06-15Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies2011-06-15161S1360-8592(11)X0005-0Case Report115123http://www.bodyworkmovementtherapies.com/article/PIIS136085921100163X/abstract?rss=yesOften our core exercises “isolate” the abdominal muscles in a non-functional way. Yet, the role of our core is to stabilize our spine and torso during movements of our hips or shoulders. Think of someone kicking, striking, throwing, or even running. The torso must be very stable to allow power and control when kicking, throwing or striking a ball.The baby get-upCraig Liebenson10.1016/j.jbmt.2011.10.006Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 16, 1 (2012)2011-12-12Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies2011-12-12161S1360-8592(11)X0005-0Self-Management: Patient Section124126http://www.bodyworkmovementtherapies.com/article/PIIS1360859211001586/abstract?rss=yesThe following references should be listed as follows: De Lany, et al., 2002. Connective tissue perspectives. Journal of Bodywork & Movement Therapies 6 (4), 220–227.Erratum to “Structural integration-based fascial release efficacy in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): Two case studies” [Journal of Bodywork & Movement Therapies (2011) 15, 217–225]Tanya M. Ball10.1016/j.jbmt.2011.10.001Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 16, 1 (2012)2011-10-12Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies2011-10-12161S1360-8592(11)X0005-0Erratum127127