Can osteopathy help women with a history of hypothyroidism and musculoskeletal complaints? Outcome of a preliminary, prospective, open investigation

Abstract 

Background

Generalised musculoskeletal aches and pains are common in hypothyroidism and continue in some patients despite pharmacological restoration of thyroid function. The underlying mechanisms are not well understood.

Objective

To investigate whether osteopathic treatment focusing on the upper thorax would alleviate musculoskeletal pain in post-menopausal women with a history of hypothyroidism receiving thyroid replacement therapy.

Design

A preliminary, prospective, within-subject uncontrolled experimental study.

Setting

An osteopathic practice in Lillestrøm, Norway.

Methods

Post-menopausal women on medication for hypothyroidism, diagnosed at least 3 years previously, and suffering from musculoskeletal pain were recruited. Each received three identical osteopathic treatment sessions, approximately 1 week apart. Pain intensity and pain interference with aspects of daily living were assessed by subjects before each session and at follow-up (4–6 weeks later), using visual analogue scales.

Results

The 18 subjects (mean age 57 years) had suffered pain for an average of 17 years; pain was often generalised, with the shoulders/upper limb and head/neck being the sites of greatest pain. There were statistically significant improvements in ‘Pain intensity’ score from baseline to follow-up (p≤0.001; Wilcoxon test) and also in 'pain interference' score between baseline and all subsequent time points (p≤0.001).

Conclusions

This study provides preliminary evidence suggesting that osteopathic treatment may help alleviate musculoskeletal pain in post-menopausal women being pharmacologically treated for hypothyroidism.

Keywords: Hypothyroidism, Thyroid gland, Osteopathic medicine, Manipulation, Osteopathic, Manual therapy, Pain, Pain measurement, Musculoskeletal system