The definition of somatic dysfunction is "impaired or altered function of related components of the somatic (body framework) system: skeletal, arthrodial and myofascial structures, and their related vascular, lymphatic, and neural elements." Andrew Taylor Still, MD, DO, was the founder of osteopathy in 1874. Osteopathy, or osteopathic medicine, is practiced by osteopathic physicians licensed as a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO). A fundamental principle of osteopathic medicine is the treatment of somatic dysfunction by using osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT); the body will be capable of self-healing.

High-velocity low amplitude (HVLA) is one type of technique/procedure utilized by an osteopathic clinician that can be used to restore the body to health. Other types of OMT techniques include but are not limited to muscle energy, counterstrain, balanced ligamentous tension, cranial and myofascial release. In this article, the indications, techniques, contraindications, side-effects, and monitoring parameters of the HLVA technique related to the ribs as attachments to the thoracic vertebrae will be reviewed.