The effects of OMT on progressive massive fibrosis: A brief report of an adjunctive therapy to improve respiratory function in Appalachian coal miners

Abstract

Recently in Central Appalachia, there has been a resurgence of the more complicated form of black lung disease known as progressive massive fibrosis (PMF). This brief report was aimed at determining the effects osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) could have to improve the lives of these individuals. This brief report involved a former Appalachian Coal Miner diagnosed with PMF. Over the course of a year, the patient was seen and treated with OMT. Though the patient reported improvement in his activities of daily living compared to previous, there was no significant data according to spirometry or quality of life metrics. This study illustrates that OMT has the potential to provide adjunctive treatment for patients with PMF. Limitations due to sample size and socioeconomic deficits of former Appalachian coal miners warrant further study.