Osteopathic Self-Treatment (OST) to Reduce Menstrual Pain
Year: 2026
Type: conference-abstract
Abstract: Dysmenorrhea, or menstrual pain, is estimated to affect 45-93% menstruating biological females. Further, dysmenorrhea can disrupt daily activities and lower quality of life. While primary dysmenorrhea stems from physiological menstrual changes, its management typically relies on over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and hor- monal contraceptives. However, these treatments vary in effectiveness and may have associated side effects, particularly with prolonged NSAID use. Lifestyle interventions like diet, exercise, and heat therapy are also recommended. This study explores the impact of Osteopathic Self-Treatment (OST) techniques, derived from Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT), on dysmenorrhea symptoms among RVU faculty, staff, and students across our three campuses (Colorado, Mon- tana, and Utah). On-site OST workshops and video training will be provided to empower individuals to self-administer tech- niques. Outcomes of interest will be measured with surveys at the beginning and conclusion of the study. If findings support the use of OST for dysmenorrhea, this would be a cost-effective, accessible, and flexible treatment option for providers to recommend. By focusing on the self-application of OMT principles, this research aims to evaluate whether OST can serve as a non-pharmaceutical alternative to standard dysmenorrhea management strategies.
Source: RVU Elevate
DOI: 10.82451/k51250
Authors: Emily Reimche, Quinton Nace, Karma McKelvey
Institution: Rocky Vista University
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7204761189