Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX USA) Practice

Movement away from the restrictive barrier is performed using which techniques?

1. Dynamic techniques

2. Passive techniques

3. Indirect techniques

4. Direct techniques

The correct answer is: Indirect techniques

Movement away from the restrictive barrier is best characterized by indirect techniques. In osteopathic manipulative treatment, indirect techniques involve positioning the body in a way that moves the segments or tissues away from their restrictive barrier, aiming to enhance the body's intrinsic ability to heal. Indirect techniques can include methods such as facilitated positional release or counterstrain, where the physician identifies a restrictive somatic dysfunction and positions the patient in such a way as to alleviate that dysfunction. By moving away from the barrier, these techniques allow the muscles and joints to relax, which can lead to a decrease in muscle tension and pain. While options like dynamic and direct techniques involve movements towards the barrier or actively engaging the restricted area, and passive techniques may involve passive movements without resistance, it is the indirect approach that specifically focuses on relieving restriction by moving away from it.