Investigation into the coefficient of friction of manual therapy products

Abstract

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.

Date of Award	Feb 2018
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of Bedfordshire
Supervisor	Richard Moss (Supervisor) & John McCarthy (Third supervisor)