Table 2 Interventions and control group interventions

Hernandez-Reif et al. [28]

Parents

20

30

20

Massage (Clearly defined full body massage with relaxing intent)

20 min reading

Lee et al. [24]

Physiotherapist

NA

1

60

Joint mobilization, intercostal mobilization, soft tissue therapy and remedial massage. (Specific treatment protocol not clearly disclosed)

None/Standard care

Sandsund et al. [25]

Physiotherapist

1

6

45

Specific mobilisations to the rib cage and thoracic spine, Trigger point treatment (Treatment methodology described on the basis of referenced literature)

None/Standard care

Hubert et al. [26]

Osteopathic practitioner

1

6

60

Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT): Cranial techniques, Muscle techniques (static and dynamic soft tissue manipulation), Structural techniques (Passive joint mobilization with and without impulse), Visceral techniques (Myofascial techniques addressing respiratory and abdominal structure and function)

(Methodology and protocol clearly stated in attachment)

Clearly specified Sham OMT and Standard care

Swender et al. [23]

Osteopathic physicians

3

4–7

15

Rib raising (passive low velocity joint mob). Abdominal diaphragm release (Soft tissue traction). Thoracic inlet myofascial release (Soft tissue traction). Thoracic lymphatic pump (Rhythmic mobilisation)

Suboccipital decompression (Myofascial pressure and traction)

Clearly specified Sham OMT

Zink et al. [27]

Licenced massage therapists

4

3–5

60–90

Deep tissue massage, Myofascial Triggerpoint treatment (MTrP) and active stretch (PIMR) full body but with an emphasis on respiratory muscles

(Treatment protocol clearly described)

None/Standard care