“The Effect of General Osteopathic Treatment on Obstructive Sleep Apnea in a Pediatric population”
Children plagued with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) often appear perfectly normal and healthy in the pediatrician’s waiting room (Marcus, C. L. 2007). It is this non obese, seemingly "normal" child population this study is looking to assess and treat, and apply the learned information to assist in the treatment of all types of sleep apnea sufferers in the future.
Untreated, OSAS may lead to severe pulmonary vasoconstriction, causing pulmonary hypertension and cor pulmonale. Heightened sympathetic tone and failure to thrive have been documented in children with OSAS due to increased work of breathing (Murphy, Lipton & Gozal, 2007). Sleep fragmentation as a consequence of OSAS is believed to cause behavioral issues such as aggression and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (Chervin, Archbold, Dillon et al., 2002) to mention a few.
To date, Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy surgery (T&A), are the most common methods of treatment for OSAS, and a continual positive air pressure (CPAP) mask is the most effective tool to decrease the OSA events (Murphy, Lipton & Gozal, 2007) , however does not suggest a solution to the problem independent of the mask. Mandible advancement therapy has also been effective to varying degrees in mild to moderate OSA cases (Pancer, Al-Faifi, M and Al-Faifi, S et al., 1999). Non surgical procedures are considered, to date, limited in their ability to resolve OSA (Murphy, Lipton & Gozal, 2007).
Lack of concrete answers as to the etiology and effective non invasive treatment of this debilitating condition, is the reason for the undertaking of this study. Successful treatment of this condition, Osteopathically, has been noted but not sufficiently documented. It is the goal of this study to work in tandem with a reputed medical body in order to properly document the progress and efficacy of this type of treatment.
Osteopathic treatment for the reduction of apneic episodes, if effective, would provide a non invasive relatively inexpensive alternative to surgery.
To qualify for free treatment in a clinical study;
your child is:
