NCT06990932

High Intensity Laser vs Instrument-assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization on Trapezius Myofascial Pain Syndrome

• Status: Completed
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 60 (actual)
• Sponsor: Cairo University · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 20 Years – 50 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

The purpose of the study was to 1. Investigate the effect of high-intensity laser therapy versus Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization on pain level in patients with myofascial pain syndrome of upper trapezius muscle. 2. Investigate the effect of High intensity laser therapy versus Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization on ROM in patients with myofascial pain syndrome of upper trapezius muscle

Detailed description

Myofascial pain syndrome is a common musculoskeletal pain affecting 30% of patients in primary care. It is characterized by trigger points in the upper trapezius muscle, which is linked to neck and shoulder pain. Non-invasive treatments like exercises, manipulation, and physical agents have been suggested for managing neck pain. Laser therapy, including low-level and high-intensity, has been found effective in reducing pain intensity and improving functional activity. Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization is another technique used to treat Myofascial pain syndrome. Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization stimulates connective tissue remodeling, resorbing excessive fibrosis, and promoting collagen repair and regeneration. The study aims to investigate the effect of high intensity laser therapy versus Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization in treating Myofascial pain syndrome of the upper trapezius muscle.

Conditions

• High Intensity Laser
• Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization
• Trapezius Muscle Strain
• Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
DEVICE	High Intensity Laser	The therapeutic dose of laser therapy depends on power density, tissue color, and type. Darker skin may absorb the laser in the epidermal layer, but HILT can pass through without absorption. Research has improved power density and dose, with the World Association of Laser Therapy recommending a 5-7 J/cm2 dose for optimal therapeutic outcomes.
OTHER	Instrument-assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization	Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization is a popular alternative to traditional manual therapy techniques, derived from Cyriax cross-friction massage. It uses hard tools to manipulate soft tissue, varying in direction, force, and pattern, and allowing pressure to disperse to underlying tissues. Modern Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization instruments vary in material and design, and are used to improve musculoskeletal conditions and outcomes. Patients receive Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization with an M2T blade, positioned at a 45° angle, and instructed to apply an ice pack if experiencing burning sensations.
OTHER	Conventional treatment	conventional physical therapy, which includes ultrasound, isometric neck exercises, chin tucks, stretching of neck muscles, and neck stabilization exercises, were used for groups A, B and C

Timeline

• Start date: 2025-02-01
• Primary completion: 2025-03-15
• Completion: 2025-04-01
• First posted: 2025-05-25
• Last updated: 2025-05-25

Locations

1 site across 1 country: Egypt