This study investigates the effect of two different techniques (dry needling and Strain-counterstrain manual technique) on the upper trapezius myofascial trigger point (MTP). Subjects with active or latent MTP in this location of the muscle will be identified and will be randomly assigned to one out of three groups: dry needling, strain-counterstrain or placebo manual technique. Pain pressure threshold, provoked pain, pain at rest, neck disability and electromyography (EMG) activity of the upper trapezius will be registered before and after six sessions of treatment.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
DOUBLE
Enrollment
39
Deep dry needling until achieving twitch response of the muscle
A manual technique to release tension of painful muscles.
A placebo technique, consisting of manual contact of the therapist with the patient without any further therapeutic approach
Universidad CEU Cardenal Herrera
Moncada, Valencia, Spain
Pain Pressure Threshold
Amount of pressure (Kg/cm2) applied at the myofascial trigger point site that elicit pain for the patient will be reported. Analogy pressure algometer(Wagner, FPK 20) will be used.
Time frame: 6 sessions
Pain at rest
Visual Analogue Scale
Time frame: 6 sessions
Neck Disability
Neck Disability Index
Time frame: 6 sessions
Electromyographic activity of the upper trapezius
Surface EMG will be recorded (MP 100 de BIOPAC Systems; Goleta, California, USA). Electrodes will be located to register activity of the Upper trapezius, according to Surface ElectroMyoGraphy for the Non-Invasive Assessment of Muscles (SENIAM) guidelines. Microvolts of activity at rest will be recorded. Data will be normalized through calculation of maximal voluntary contraction, so that final data will be reported as a percentage.
Time frame: 6 sessions
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