To date, there are not studies about the effectiveness of dry needling versus ischemic compression in the triceps surae trigger points. A randomized clinical trial is carried out. A sample of 30 subjects are recruited and allocated into dry needling (n = 15) and ischemic compression (n = 15). Outcome measurements such as dorsal flexion range of motion, plantar pressures, temperature, superficial muscle activity and trigger points pressure pain threshold are measured immediately before and after treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Myofascial pain syndrome in the triceps surae muscle, limitation of ankle dorsal flexion range of motion.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Neurologic disorders, pharmacologic treatment (within the previous 3 months), cognitive impairment, prosthesis in the lower limb, systemic or infectious diseases, autoimmune diseases, fibromyalgia, hypothyroidism, anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents, and fear of needles.