Investigation into the coefficient of friction of manual therapy products
Authors
Howes, Emily MarieIssue Date
2018-02Subjects
manual therapymanual therapy mediums
coefficient of friction
skin friction
force acceleration
B160 Physiotherapy
Metadata
Show full item recordAbstract
The ability to modulate friction is a vital aspect of manual therapy. Various mediums are utilised to assist with different techniques in the form of: lotions, oils and waxes. The aim of this research was to investigate the differences in the dynamic coefficient of friction between manual therapy mediums. A scientific testing rig with an interchangeable calibration weight (SE-8708, PASCO, USA) was pulled across the mediums and the force was recorded. Constant velocity was confirmed by monitoring acceleration via a wireless force-acceleration sensor (PS-3202, PASCO, USA). The coefficient of friction for each medium was calculated and recorded. Results showed the mean dynamic coefficient of friction for wax was 0.30 (95% CI, 0.26 - 0.35). This was significantly different from cream 0.16 (95% CI, 0.13 - 0.19) p=0.000 and oil 0.09 (95% CI, 0.07 - 0.12) p=000. There was also a statistically significant difference between cream and oil p=0.037. These results suggest that oil and wax produce the lowest and highest coefficient of frictions respectively. Therefore, if the intention of a technique were to increase friction, then wax may be the most effective medium. Alternatively, where less friction is required, oil may prove more efficient for the practitioner.Citation
Howes, E.M. (2018) 'Investigation into the coefficient of friction of manual therapy products’. MSc by research thesis. University of Bedfordshire.Publisher
University of BedfordshireType
Thesis or dissertationLanguage
enDescription
A Thesis Submitted to the University of Bedfordshire, in Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Degree of Masters of Science by ResearchCollections
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