Somatic Dysfunction

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Somatic dysfunction is an Osteopathic concept that refers to impaired functioning of the somatic system with or without any significant disease process. It is akin to irritable bowel syndrome in Gastroenterology, epilepsy in Neurology, and dysrhythmia in a structurally normal heart. The definition of somatic dysfunction doesn't include pain as dysfunction can be found in the absence of pain or symptoms. The somatic system refers to the skeletal, arthrodial, myofascial, and related vascular, lymphatic, and neural elements.

Diagnosis

The principles of dysfunction diagnosis is based on the diagnostic triad - ART

• A: Asymmetry of form of function of related parts of the somatic system. Comparisons are made of paired structures. Skeletal asymmetry may have an influence on functional asymmetry.
• R: Range of motion whether normal, increased, or decreased. The usual finding is of decreased ROM in somatic dysfunction. The motion is assessed for pathological and anatomical barriers and endfeel.
• T: Tissue texture changes. Palpation is done in a layered approach.

See Also

• Myofascial Pain Syndrome
• Media:Somatic_Dysfunction_An_Osteopathic_Conundrum_-_Fryer_2016.pdf