The effects of high intensity laser therapy and dry needling on clinical signs in females with upper trapezius muscle active trigger points: A single blinded randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Objective: One of the main contributors to musculoskeletal pain syndromes are myofascial trigger points (MTrPs), which are characterized by discomfort, tenderness, and restricted range of motion (ROM). In this study, patients with upper trapezius myofascial pain syndrome had their pain intensity, cervical range of motion, and disability evaluated in relation to the effectiveness of high intensity laser therapy and dry needling.

Methods: 32 participants with active upper trapezius myofascial trigger points were split into two groups at random: one group received high intensity laser treatment (n = 16), while the other received dry needling (n = 16). All participants got relevant intervention twice weekly throughout the three weeks of treatment sessions (5 sessions). Before and after the intervention, the cervical range of movements, disability and Pain intensity were all assessed by iPhone inclinometer & goniometer, neck disability index and visual analog scale respectively.

Results: The visual analog scale and neck disability index significantly reduced post-intervention in both groups (P < 0.001). Moreover, the cervical range of motions significantly increased in both groups (P < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in pain intensity, neck disability index and the cervical range of motions between the two groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion: Active myofascial trigger points in the upper trapezius muscle may be effectively treated with dry needling or high-intensity laser therapy.

Keywords: Dry needling; High intensity laser therapy (HILT); Laser therapy; Myofascial pain syndrome; Myofascial trigger point; Upper trapezius muscle.