Efficacy of post-isometric relaxation versus integrated neuromuscular ischaemic technique in the treatment of upper trapezius trigger points

This study was done to compare the efficacy of post-isometric relaxation (PIR) along with ultrasound and massage versus integrated neuromuscular ischaemic technique (INIT) along with ultrasound and massage in the treatment of trigger point pain of the upper trapezius muscle.

30 subjects having trigger points in the upper trapezius muscle both males and females in the age-group of 18–35 years were divided into two groups: subjects in group A (n=15) were treated with PIR, massage and ultrasound and Group B (n= 15) were treated with INIT, massage and ultrasound. The VAS scores for pain, side-flexion ROM (opposite side of pain) and NPNPQ were used to assess the improvements.

There was statistically significant difference in VAS scores (p < 0.05), Neck side-flexion ROM (opposite side) and NPNPQ scores (p < 0.05) in both Group A & Group B. This indicates that subjects with trigger points in the upper trapezius muscle had significant reduction in pain, improvement in ROM and reduction in scores of NPNPQ. Between the groups there was no significant improvement (p > 0.05). Within group analysis shows that both groups had significant improvement in the variables but there was no significant change between the groups.

Both treatment techniques were highly effective in the treatment of trigger point pain in the upper trapezius muscle.