Additional Effect of Static Ultrasound and Diadynamic Currents on Myofascial Trigger Points in a Manual Therapy Program for Patients With Chronic Neck Pain A Randomized Clinical Trial

Author(s)

Dibai-Filho, Almir Vieira ; de Oliveira, Alessandra Kelly ; Girasol, Carlos Eduardo ; Cancio Dias, Fabiana Rodrigues ; de Jesus Guirro, Rinaldo Roberto

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL MEDICINE & REHABILITATION; v. 96, n. 4, p. 243-252, APR 2017.
• Web of Science Citations: 5

Abstract

Objective: To assess the additional effect of static ultrasound and diadynamic currents onmyofascial trigger points in amanual therapy programto treat individuals with chronic neck pain. Design: A single-blind randomized trial was conducted. Both men and women, between ages 18 and 45, with chronic neck pain and active myofascial trigger points in the upper trapezius were included in the study. Subjects were assigned to 3 different groups: group 1 (n = 20) was treated with manual therapy; group 2 (n = 20) was treated with manual therapy and static ultrasound; group 3 (n = 20) was treated with manual therapy and diadynamic currents. Individuals were assessed before the first treatment session, 48 hours after the first treatment session, 48 hours after the tenth treatment session, and 4 weeks after the last session. Results: There was no group-versus-time interaction for Numeric Rating Scale, Neck Disability Index, Pain-Related Self-Statement Scale, pressure pain threshold, cervical range of motion, and skin temperature (F-value range, 0.089-1.961; P-value range, 0.106-0.977). Moreover, we found no differences between groups regarding electromyographic activity (P > 0.05). Conclusion: The use of static ultrasound or diadynamic currents on myofascial trigger points in upper trapezius associated with a manual therapy program did not generate greater benefits than manual therapy alone. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 15/04076-7 - Correlation between skin temperature on myofascial trigger point in the upper trapezius muscle and range of motion, pain and electromyographic activity in patients with chronic neck pain
• Grantee: Carlos Eduardo Girasol
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• 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