Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy vs Mesotherapy in the Treatment of Myofascial Pain Syndrome: a Case-control Study

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy vs Mesotherapy in the Treatment of Myofascial Pain Syndrome: a Case-control Study

Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) is a disorder of the musculoskeletal system manifested by referred pain associated with functional limitation, muscle contractures, and possible neuralgic manifestations; this condition is characterized by the presence of "trigger points". The goal of this case-control study was to compare the effects and benefits of treatment with ESWT vs Mesotherapy in myofascial pain syndrome. The main question it aims to answer is: what is the best rehabilitation project-program between ESWT and mesotherapy for patients with myofascial syndrome? A case-control study was conducted at the U.O.C. of "Recovery and Functional Rehabilitation" A.O.U.P. "P. Giaccone" of Palermo from February 2022 to Dicember2023. Patients were randomized into 2 groups: in group "A", No. 5 sessions of focal ESWT were given weekly; in group "B", No. 5 sessions of Mesotherapy with administration of Thiocolchicoside fl 4mg/2ml and Mepivacaine fl 10mg/1ml were given weekly. Patients in group "A" and group "B" were evaluated at baseline (T0), after 5 sessions (T1) and one month after the end of treatment (T2). Researchers will compare patients treated with ESWT and patients performing mesotherapy to see if there are real differences in terms of pain reduction and improved quality of life.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 35-65 years
• Diagnosis of myofascial syndrome
• NRS at T0 ≥ 4
• Written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnant patients
• Patients with malignancies already diagnosed or in the process of diagnostic definition
• Coagulation disorders and/or therapy with anticoagulants
• Skin lesions and/or local infections
• Contraindications and/or allergies to the active ingredients of Mesotherapy.