Graston technique versus active soft tissue therapies on latent trigger points of upper trapezius muscle - Trial PACTR201907842497075

Timeline & Enrollment

Summary

Musculoskeletal disorders are tissue dysfunctions in the musculoskeletal system that arise as a result of continuous exposure to abnormal, adverse physical conditions during rest or while performing job duties, as well as steady and repeated movements leading to pain and injury in the body, especially in the neck and shoulder. Repetitive tasks with long static loads lead to the development of clinical disorders such as myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) with trigger points (TPs). There are many therapeutic approaches available for the treatment of patients with TPs, among which is manual therapy. Some studies have been conducted to identify effective treatments for soft tissue–related problems. Active release technique includes applying pressure to nodules or bands in a muscle and then the abnormal tissue being taken from contracted position to elongated position, while the therapist maintains directed manual contact along the muscle fibers is considered one of the most used manual approach.Graston Technique is a massage system revolving around several hand-held stainless-steel instruments. Graston technique promoters claim that the metal surface of the instruments does not compress the tissues, as do the fat pads of the finger, so that deeper restrictions can be accessed and treated. Given the overall lack of scientific evidence it is apparent that further high quality trials are necessary to determine the efficacy of the soft tissue massage method known as Graston Technique. We propose a study to determine the efficacy of Graston Technique compared to active release technique in the treatment of latent trigger point of upper fiber of trapezius.

ICD-10 Classifications