Analyzing Upper Quadrant Neural Extensibility in Upper Trapezius Trigger Point Subjects

The aim of the present research was to analyze the existent of a relationship between upper quadrant neural extensibility and upper trapezius trigger points. The anatomical location and orientation of the upper trapezius muscle and nerves of the brachial plexus are having a close inter- relationship with each other. A new treatment approach can be formulated for trigger point rehabilitation on the bases of this relationship.

This experimental study was carried out with 100 subjects of both gender with age 15–40 year at Himalayan hospital-Dehradun. The data was collected by taking outcome variables in form of elbow extension range and upper trapezius muscle length. Subjects were divided in two groups on the basis of presence or absence of trigger point.

Two procedures were performed similarly for both the groups i.e. ULTT 1 and upper trapezius muscle length tension.

Comparison was made for the resting and tension ranges for both the procedures within the group and between the groups. Result of this study signifies the Neural compromise earlier than the muscle length change in trigger point subjects.

Neural compromise is believed to occur earlier than muscle length change in trigger point subjects, thus neural mobilization should be added as an adjunct to trigger point rehabilitation.

There exists a significant relationship between upper trapezius trigger points and neural extensibility.