Evaluating the Relationship Between Somatic Dysfunction, Physical Activity Level, and Perceived Stress Level: A Pilot Study

Abstract Introduction: Somatic dysfunction (SD) is the basis for osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT). SD is found through palpatory physical assessment and represents a degree of strain on the homeostatic system of the body. This study investigates the relationship between SD and physical activity (PA) level as well as perceived stress level (POMS). Methods: This observational cohort study collected Somatic Dysfunction Scale (SDS) scores together with a score from a perceived stress questionnaire, the Profile of Mood States (POMS), and an activity level assessed with via a physical activity (PA) questionnaire. Data was collected on three separate days, approximately 6 weeks apart. Questionnaires were administered and collected initially, then SDS scores were assessed independently by two examiners that were blinded from each other and from the questionnaire data. Results: There was no significant relationship between SD and POMS or PA. There was a possible significant inverse relationship between the TMD from the POMS and a moderate level of PA with a negative Spearman rank correlation (-.194) and p = 0.089. There was a statistically significant correlation between examiners’ SDS scores. Conclusion: Stand-alone SDS values may not be a useful measure to correlate with stress levels and activity levels. However, SDS values may be used to assess the longitudinal response to interventions such as OMT.