Can back pain caused by symptom-giving sacroiliac joint relaxation ...

this study he included the examination for sensitivity and specificity. Only a minimum
of three tests have to be positive to indicate SIJ instability. Since the latter series with
six provocation SIJ tests offers more accurate results as regards specificity and
sensitivity, I chose to apply these tests in my study. [31]
For the assessment of pain provocation SIJ tests, pain areas and palpation, a more
affected side (MAS) and a less affected side (LAS) were defined. This classification
refers especially to the instability of the SIJ. However, it contradicts the holistic
approach of osteopathy, as restrictions in an osteopathic sense can be found
especially on the LAS.
The results obtained from Laslett’s test series were very significant. However, it is
important to point out that the inclusion criterion of this study was the test series
itself, which raises the significance of its results.
The cranial shear test also shows significant results for my work and a clear
coherence with Laslett’s test series of 2005. [31] In Laslett’s study of 1994 this test
still formed part of his test series. Unfortunately the current study report does not
offer any explanations as to why this test is no longer included in the test series.
The ASLR and Faber tests also show an improvement after therapy. However, their
results do not significantly point towards the presence or absence of SIJ instability.
With their ASLR test method Mens et al. [31] have shown good results regarding
reliability and the specificity and sensitivity on the Quebeck Back Pain Disability
Scale. Due to the scaling of results, using this test version in day-to-day work life is
considerably less convenient.
The SLR tests after the treatments do not only show improved results in the area of
the SIJ but also in the adjacent areas. However, the significance of these results is
not sufficient to draw generally valid conclusions.
As regards the pain areas, these were not assessed according to their quantity, but
regarding whether pain occurs at all in these areas. In many cases it was possible to
achieve pain reduction in a certain area, but never painlessness. Thus, the indication
of the pain area(s) is not significant for the success of the therapy.
Master’s Thesis Wolfgang Aspalter 64