Article

OBJECTIVE: To assess the additional effect of static ultrasound and diadynamic
currents on myofascial trigger points in a manual therapy program to 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.

Langue : ANGLAIS