Comparison of the Efficacy of Kinesio Taping and TENS Therapy in Patients With Cervical Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Comparison of the Efficacy of Kinesio Taping and TENS Therapy Using Ultrasound Elastography in Patients With Cervical Myofascial Pain Syndrome: Randomized Controlled Trial

Cervical MPS is a condition of pain, weakness and loss of function caused by trigger points located in the tense bands in the muscles in the neck and upper back. Pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments are used in the treatment of MPS. Although different treatment methods are used for MPS today, there is no proven treatment method to be superior to others. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of exercise therapy, kinesiology taping and TENS therapy on pain, muscle strength and functional status in patients with cervical myofascial pain syndrome.

Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a non-inflammatory musculoskeletal disease characterized by the presence of hyperirritable palpable trigger points accompanied by pain and muscle stiffness. Main signs and symptoms of MPS; pain, spasm, decrease in joint range of motion, difficulty in daily living activities and deterioration in quality of life. Pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments are used in the treatment of MPS. Among non-pharmacological treatments, postural and mechanical modifications, exercises, stress reduction, electrotherapy methods, regional cold and hot application, local anesthetic injections, kinesiological taping, acupuncture and dry needling can be preferred. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of exercise therapy, kinesiology taping and TENS therapy on pain, muscle strength and functional status in patients with cervical myofascial pain syndrome.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Being between the ages of 18-65 and diagnosed with cervical MAS according to the major and minor diagnostic criteria defined by Travel and Simons.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Those diagnosed with myofascial syndrome and receiving medical treatment and physical therapy
• Those diagnosed with myofascial syndrome and taking an exercise program
• Those diagnosed with fibromyalgia syndrome
• Skin disease and edema in the area to be applied
• Kinesiology tape allergy
• Neurological diseases (Epilepsy, stroke, upper motor neuron lesions)
• People using pacemakers
• Hypertension and diabetes that cannot be controlled with medication
• Any fracture pathology involving the upper extremity and cervical region,
• Other cervical pathologies that may cause neck pain other than MAS
• Pregnancy
• Cognitive dysfunction and poor cooperation