Evolution of Skin Temperature after the Application of Compressive Forces on Tendon, Muscle and Myofascial Trigger Point

Author(s)

Magalhaes, Marina Figueiredo ^[1] ; Dibai-Filho, Almir Vieira ^[1] ; de Oliveira Guirro, Elaine Caldeira ^[1] ; Girasol, Carlos Eduardo ^[1] ; de Oliveira, Alessandra Kelly ^[1] ; Cancio Dias, Fabiana Rodrigues ^[1] ; de Jesus Guirro, Rinaldo Roberto ^[1]

Affiliation

^[1] Univ Sao Paulo, Med Sch Ribeirao Preto, Dept Biomech Med & Rehabil Locomotor Apparatus, Postgrad Program Rehabil & Funct Performance, BR-14049 Ribeirao Preto, SP - Brazil

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: PLoS One; v. 10, n. 6 JUN 12 2015.
• Web of Science Citations: 12

Abstract

Some assessment and diagnosis methods require palpation or the application of certain forces on the skin, which affects the structures beneath, we highlight the importance of defining possible influences on skin temperature as a result of this physical contact. Thus, the aim of the present study is to determine the ideal time for performing thermographic examination after palpation based on the assessment of skin temperature evolution. Randomized and crossover study carried out with 15 computer-user volunteers of both genders, between 18 and 45 years of age, who were submitted to compressive forces of 0, 1, 2 and 3 kg/cm(2) for 30 seconds with a washout period of 48 hours using a portable digital dynamometer. Compressive forces were applied on the following spots on the dominant upper limb: myofascial trigger point in the levator scapulae, biceps brachii muscle and palmaris longus tendon. Volunteers were examined by means of infrared thermography before and after the application of compressive forces (15, 30, 45 and 60 minutes). In most comparisons made over time, a significant decrease was observed 30, 45 and 60 minutes after the application of compressive forces (p < 0.05) on the palmaris longus tendon and biceps brachii muscle. However, no difference was observed when comparing the different compressive forces (p > 0.05). In conclusion, infrared thermography can be used after assessment or diagnosis methods focused on the application of forces on tendons and muscles, provided the procedure is performed 15 minutes after contact with the skin. Regarding to the myofascial trigger point, the thermographic examination can be performed within 60 minutes after the contact with the skin. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 13/07732-7 - Low level laser and high voltage electrical stimulation on the viability of flap musculafasciocutaneous transverse rectus abdominis in rats subjected to the action of nicotine
• Grantee: Elaine Caldeira de Oliveira Guirro
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 13/09753-1 - Effectiveness of physiotherapeutic resources in the treatment of myofascial trigger points in patients with neck pain: blinded randomized clinical trial
• Grantee: Almir Vieira Dibai Filho
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• FAPESP's process: 13/19368-8 - Effectiveness of physiotherapy resources in the treatment of myofascial trigger points in patients with neck pain: blinded randomized clinical trial
• Grantee: Rinaldo Roberto de Jesus Guirro
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants