Structural (caused by bony asymmetry) LLD is not requested.
Written in Arial size 12, 1½ line spacing, page numbers, double space between
paragraphs, maximum 1500 words (10% over or under allowed) with word count after
essay conclusion (reference page and appendices do not count). (Optional:
maximum two ‘short’ appendices). No titles, subtitles, question marks, bold, bullet
points or charts within the body.
Writing style (EGSIU marking): Essay refers to title and marking criteria, written in
academic style (3rd person). An introduction (suggested 100-120 words) and
conclusion (suggested 100-120 words) without references as per further information
in this module handbook. A body correctly referenced, its content clearly expressed
and well-structured with linking and flowing paragraphs, correct grammar and
punctuation and without spelling mistakes.
CONTENT MARKING CRITERIA – (EGSIU marking)
Correctly referenced using Harvard System with suitable and relevant
academically sound sources
This criterion takes into account the following:
• Referencing in body follows Harvard system as per further information in this
module handbook.
• References are quoted correctly in the Reference page as per further
information in this module handbook.
• The suitability and relevance of academically sound sources used e.g. books
and academic journals. Level 5: At least 9 sources. Do not use College
notes as references.
This study has information that relates to the essay:
Qureshi Y et al (2014) Effects of somatic dysfunction on leg length and weight
bearing The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association
http://jaoa.org/article.aspx?articleid=2094690
Explores the causes that claim supine leg length discrepancy (LLD) is a sign of lower
back somatic dysfunction
Measuring LLD in the supine position is commonly used to assist reaching diagnostic
conclusions for lower back somatic dysfunction. Essentially, the patient lies supine,
unloading the pelvis, the osteopath’s thumbs are positioned below the medial malleoli to
measure LLD.
If LLD is found and confirmed not to be structural i.e. as a result of a bony deformity, various
structures can then be considered to be causing this finding and leading to lower back
somatic dysfunction. This criterion requires that you explore the various structures that can
cause the appearance of the supine LLD. To simplify your research, structural (caused by
bony asymmetry) LLD is not requested.
Reviews the sources that support or deny the validity of supine LLD as a sign of lower
back somatic dysfunction
This criterion requires that you review sources that confirm or deny the validity of the supine
LLD as a sign of lower back somatic dysfunction so that conclusions can be reached as to
the reliability of the findings.