Changes in edema, pain, or range of motion following manual edema mobilization: a single-case design study

The purpose of this study was to examine the efficacy of manual edema mobilization (MEM) on decreasing edema and pain, and increasing range of motion (ROM) using a single-subject, A-B design study. A baseline phase was established by measuring the dependent variables of edema, pain, and ROM. Next, the treatment/intervention phase was established by measuring the same dependent variables while subjects received MEM treatments. Differences between the baseline and treatment/intervention phases were analyzed statistically. In four of the five subjects, a decrease in edema between the baseline and treatment/intervention phases was statistically significant. Differences between the baseline and treatment/intervention phases for pain and ROM were not statistically significant despite qualitative reports of improvements after MEM. Therapists are encouraged to evaluate the type of edema to ensure that the appropriate treatment technique is used, as this quasi-experimental study provides statistical support for the utilization of MEM in decreasing subacute and chronic edema.