introduction to mechanisms behind RDTs; www.manualmedsolutions.org

'Rapid De-afferentation Techniques' (R.D.T.s, or RDTs)are a system of soft-tissue rapid-release techniques. These techniques have the commonality of being able to quickly break the nociceptive cycle for somatic dysfunctions. Some of the RDT methods bear resemblance to ease techniqes of osteopathic manipulation. Other parts of the system are derived from postitional releases and muscle energy techniques. The protocols also tend to include vascular improvement and lympahtic drainage techniques. Elements of proprioceptive, mechanoceptive, and direct muscle stimulation are evident. The reflexive techniqes for soft tissue release appear to be unique versus references in the general medical and peer-reviewed manual medicine literature. There is thus a dearth of material to compare RDTs with. For anyone interested in pusuing study of RDTs, a good understanding of the fundamental mechanisms will significantly reduce the learning curve. The work of Eyal Lederman and Leon Chaitow is an excellent place to start. Even in books you already have, there is already a wealth of material on PNFs, METs, reflexes, proprioception, mechanoception, reflexive inhibition, adaptation, facilitation, somatic dysfunctions, and higher center involvement in LMN function. The sceience is out there. I'ts the approach that appears radically different. This is a clinically heavily utilixed set of protocols with remarkable results. There are unfortunately not yet any large-scale randomized controlled double-blinded meta studies on Rapid De-afferentation techniques. Clinical studies progressing from case studies, series, and case-control to full RCT are suggested. A study of both the effectiveness and mechanisms of action of treatment arms and full RDT protocols is recommended.