Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilisation versus stripping massage for upper trapezius myofascial trigger points

Haytham M El-Hafez, Hend A Hamdy, Mary K Takla, Salah Eldin B Ahmed, Ahmed F Genedy, Al Shaymaa S Abd El-Azeim, Haytham M El-Hafez, Hend A Hamdy, Mary K Takla, Salah Eldin B Ahmed, Ahmed F Genedy, Al Shaymaa S Abd El-Azeim

Abstract

Objective: This study investigated the effects of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilisation (IASTM) versus stripping massage (SM) on myofascial trigger points in the right upper trapezius.

Method: Forty patients (34 women and 6 men), aged 18-23 years, with active trigger points in the right upper trapezius were divided into two equal groups (A and B). Group A (n = 20) received IASTM using an M2T blade twice a week for four weeks in addition to stretching exercise. Group B (n = 20) received SM twice a week for four weeks in addition to stretching exercise. The visual analogue scale, a pressure algometer, and the Arabic version of the Neck Disability Index were used to evaluate patients' pre- and post-treatment statuses.

Results: Within-group analysis showed significant differences between pre- and post-treatment values of all outcome measures in both groups. In contrast, between-group analysis did not show any significant differences between the two groups in pre- or post-treatment values of any outcome measures.

Conclusion: IASTM and SM are effective methods for improving pain and function in patients with upper trapezius trigger points.

Keywords: Arabic version of the neck disability index; Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilisation; Myofascial trigger points; Stretching exercise; Stripping massage.

© 2020 The Authors.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Flow chart of subject inclusion in the study.
Figure 2
Figure 2
A Commander algometer.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Pressure pain threshold assessment.
Figure 4
Figure 4
M2T blade
Figure 5
Figure 5
IASTM: sweeping technique. IASTM, instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization.
Figure 6
Figure 6
Passive stretching exercise
Figure 7
Figure 7
Self-stretching exercise.
Figure 8
Figure 8
Stripping massage.

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