High Intensity Laser vs Instrument-assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization on Trapezius Myofascial Pain Syndrome

High Intensity Laser vs Instrument-assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization on Trapezius Myofascial Pain Syndrome

The purpose of the study was to

1. Investigate the effect of high-intensity laser therapy versus Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization on pain level in patients with myofascial pain syndrome of upper trapezius muscle.
2. Investigate the effect of High intensity laser therapy versus Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization on ROM in patients with myofascial pain syndrome of upper trapezius muscle

Myofascial pain syndrome is a common musculoskeletal pain affecting 30% of patients in primary care. It is characterized by trigger points in the upper trapezius muscle, which is linked to neck and shoulder pain. Non-invasive treatments like exercises, manipulation, and physical agents have been suggested for managing neck pain. Laser therapy, including low-level and high-intensity, has been found effective in reducing pain intensity and improving functional activity. Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization is another technique used to treat Myofascial pain syndrome. Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization stimulates connective tissue remodeling, resorbing excessive fibrosis, and promoting collagen repair and regeneration. The study aims to investigate the effect of high intensity laser therapy versus Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization in treating Myofascial pain syndrome of the upper trapezius muscle.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. The patient age ranged from 20 to 50 years
2. Presence of myofascial trigger points in the upper trapezius muscle
3. Having neck discomfort symptoms that were triggered by certain neck positions and by palpating the cervical musculature for at least three months
4. Patient willing and able to participate in an exercise program safely

Exclusion Criteria:

1. medical red flag history (such as tumour, fracture, metabolic diseases, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis)
2. Neck pain with cervical radiculopathy or neck pain associated with externalized cervical disc herniation.
3. If the patient had previous surgery in the neck area (irrespective of the reason for the operation)
4. Neck pain accompanied by vertigo caused by vertebra basilar insufficiency or accompanied by non-cervicogenic headaches