Comparing the Effects of a Series of Ischaemic Compression Therapy and Muscle Energy Techniques on Pain Threshold and Muscle Tension in People with Upper Crossed Syndrome

Abstract

Introduction: Myofascial pain syndromes and upper crossed syndrome (UCS) are common phenomena observed in society. The main reasons for their formation are postural defects and chronic muscle overload. Trigger points (TP) develop within the affected muscles, generating pain and other symptoms that worsen quality of life. A popular method of therapy is ischaemic compression (IC) of trigger points and muscle energy techniques (MET). However, in literature on the subject, there is a lack information on the effects of a series of therapies with these techniques on the reduction of pain and muscle tension. Aim: The aim of the study was to determine the optimal myofascial technique in the treatment of patients with UCS presenting with pain and excessive tension in the trapezius muscle. Material and methods: In the study, 45 people with UCS with TP in the trapezius back muscle were qualified for the trial. The subjects were randomly divided into 3 equal groups. Group A underwent a series of 5 IC trigger point treatments, while group B received a series of 5 MET treatments. Group C was a control group not subjected to any therapeutic intervention. Changes in pain threshold and muscle resting electrophysiological values after the completion of the 5-week therapy intervention were assessed. The Statistica 13 program was used for statistical analysis of the data. Results: A significant increase in pain threshold on both sides of the body was demonstrated in groups A and B, but not in group C. Comparison of pain changes between the right and left sides showed no significant differences between groups. There was a significant decrease regarding tension in group C on both sides of the body and its increase in group A on the right side, however, in each case, these values were within the physiological norms. Conclusions: A series of 5 ischaemic compression treatments and muscle energy techniques are effective in reducing pain caused by latent trigger points in people with UCS but are not associated with changes in resting tension beyond physiological norms.