Effects of Integrated Neuromuscular Inhibition Technique on pain threshold and pain intensity in patients with upper trapezius trigger points

Introduction

Upper trapezius trigger points are among the most common causes of neck pain. This study aimed to investigate the effects of integrated Neuromuscular Inhibition Technique (INIT) on pain intensity and threshold.

Materials & methods

Thirty two female participants with upper trapezius trigger points were recruited in this study. The participants were assigned to control (n?=?16) or intervention (n?=?16). The intervention group received INIT in one session, consisted of muscle energy technique, ischemic compression and strain-counter strain. Pain threshold and intensity were measured using Pressure Pain Threshold (PPT) and Numerical Pain Scale (NPS). These measurements were performed at baseline, immediately after treatment and 24?h after treatment.

Findings

The results showed that pain intensity significantly decreased in the intervention group immediately after treatment (P?=?.01) and 24?h after treatment (P?=?.009) in comparison with the control group. There were no significant differences in pressure pain threshold between both groups.

Conclusion

It seems that Integrated Neuromuscular Inhibition Technique can reduce pain intensity in patients with upper trapezius trigger points.