Effects of Visceral Osteopathic Massage on Semen Parameters and Hemodynamics Factors in Varicocele

Sponsor
Ankara Yildirim Beyazıt University
Study ID
NCT07665905
Status
Not Yet Recruiting

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Conditions

  • Infertility
  • Varicocele

Eligibility Criteria

Sex
MALE
Age
18 Years - 45 Years
Healthy Volunteers
Not accepted

Interventions

  • Visceral Osteopathic Massage Techiques — OTHER
    Thoracic Diaphragm Release: Patient supine; therapist applies gentle pressure under the costal arch during expiration to enhance diaphragmatic mobility and regulate intra-abdominal pressure. Renal Vein \& Sigmoid Colon Mobilization: Manual oscillatory pressure is applied to abdominal organs following their natural motility to reduce fascial restrictions and support vascular/lymphatic flow. Indirect Inguinal Canal Release: Tissues are held in a position of least tension for up to one minute to induce relaxation, reducing pelvic floor tension and regulating pressure. Obturator Internus Release: Uses muscle energy or indirect approaches. After passive stretch and isometric contraction, post-isometric relaxation is utilized to achieve a painless state. Great Abdominal Maneuver: Rhythmic manual pressures in harmony with breathing are applied to the abdominal wall to boost venous and lymphatic circulation. Bladder \& Rectum Mobilization: Gentle manual techniques to regulate pelvic floor.

Study Details

The project aims to evaluate the effects of a visceral osteopathic manual therapy (VOM) protocol on semen parameters and testicular hemodynamic indicators in men diagnosed with varicocele. Varicocele, the most common correctable cause of male infertility, is a progressive vascular pathology characterized by dilation of the pampiniform plexus veins and venous reflux. Multifactorial mechanisms such as venous valve insufficiency, increased intra-abdominal pressure, microcirculatory impairment, and oxidative stress play a role in the pathophysiology of varicocele. Therefore, the present study investigates the clinical effectiveness of a non-invasive rehabilitation approach aimed at regulating intra-abdominal pressure and improving pelvic venous drainage. The study will be conducted using a prospective, randomized controlled clinical design, including male participants aged 18-45 years diagnosed with varicocele. The intervention group will receive visceral osteopathic manual therapy techniques two times per week for eight weeks, while the control group will receive lifestyle recommendations only. Before and after the intervention, semen analysis results, sperm morphology, motility parameters, and testicular venous hemodynamic measurements obtained by color Doppler ultrasonography will be compared. Parametric and non-parametric statistical methods will be used in the analyses. This project aims to generate clinical evidence regarding conservative, complementary medicine-based treatment options in the field of male infertility. Compared to studies on female reproductive health, research focusing on male reproductive health is more limited; therefore, this study is expected to contribute to the literature in this area. The results are anticipated to support the development of a cost-effective and accessible model for infertility treatment processes. In addition, the project aims to provide scientific data for the development of sustainable reproductive health approaches in terms of health economics in Türkiye. The study seeks to determine the effects of visceral osteopathic manual therapy on varicocele-related semen parameters and hemodynamic variables and to contribute to the development of new evidence-based approaches in the management of male infertility.

Key Dates

First listed
Jun 24, 2026
Start date
Sep 1, 2026
Status verified
Jun 2026
Primary completion
Sep 1, 2027
Completion
Nov 1, 2027

Study Design

Enrollment
32 participants (estimated)
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Intervention model
PARALLEL
Primary purpose
SUPPORTIVE_CARE

Arms

  • Experimental: Visceral Osteopathic Massage Group
    Participants in this group will receive visceral osteopathic massage techniques.
  • No Intervention: Control Group
    This group will only be given physical activity recommendations.

Primary Outcome Measure

Semen Parameters [ Time Frame: Baseline and at the end of 8 weeks. ]

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