Comparison of Ischemic Compression Therapy and Kinesiotaping in Chronic Neck Pain

Comparison of Ischemic Compression Therapy and Kinesiotaping on Blood Flow, Tissue Stiffness, Pain and Range of Motion in Chronic Neck Pain

Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of ischemic compression (IC) and kinesio taping (KT) treatments on blood flow, tissue stiffness and thickness, pain, and joint range of motion on the upper trapezius muscle of individuals with chronic neck pain.

Methods: In this study 22 individuals between the ages of 20-35 were randomly assigned to 3 groups: Group1, which received IC; Group2, received KT; Group3 (control) received exercise, for 2 days and 4 weeks. Pain was measured with VAS, pain threshold with J-Tech Algometer, range of motion with BASELINE Digital Inclinometer, ultrasonographic measurements for blood flow, tissue stiffness and tissue thickness using Acuson S3000. All measurements were performed twice; before and after treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• A score ar least 3 and above 3 on the Visual analogue scale
• Presence of palpable taut band and at least one trigger point on the taut band
• Presence of referred pain with palpation of the trigger point

Exclusion Criteria:

• Analgesic use within the previous 24hours
• History of cervical surgery
• Receiving myofascial pain treatment within the previous month of the study