The immediate effect of modified positional release therapy on upper trapezius latent myofascial trigger point.

Abstract

Background: Positional release therapy (PRT) has been suggested as an effective treatment for treating myofascial trigger points (MTrPs). Considering the mechanism of PRT, a new modified technique called Manual Passive Muscle Shortening (MPMS) is suggested for treatment of MTrPs. Objectives: To compare the effects of MPMS and PRT on upper trapezius latent MTrPs sensitivity and active range of cervical lateral flexion. Methods: Thirty female university students who were identified with upper trapezius latent MTrP were recruited from Tabriz University of Medical Science to participate in this double blinded randomized controlled trial. Contributors were randomly allocated into experimental (n=15, treated with MPMS technique) or control group (n=15, treated with PRT technique). Participants took part in three treatments and a follow up session (one week after third session). Visual analogue scale (VAS), pressure pain threshold (PPT) and bilateral active range of cervical lateral flexion motion were recorded to assess the effects of treatment. First physiotherapist who was blinded to treatment allocation of the participants recorded these outcome measures pre-treatment on first session and post-treatment on third and follow-up sessions. Results: All participants (n=30) were included in data analysis. At follow up session within-group changes indicated a significant increase in PPT (P=0.000), a significant decrease in VAS (P =0.002) and a significant increase in ipsilateral flexion (P=0.012) in experimental group. Contralateral lateral flexion was also increased in this group but it was not statistically significant (P = 0.254). At the end of study there were no significant differences between groups (P > 0.05). Conclusion: According to study results both MPMS and PRT were effective techniques in immediate pain relief of upper trapezius MTrP. Therefore, MPMS may be used as a new technique in treating MTrPs. .