A randomised controlled trial comparing ischemic compression therapy and ultrasound with stretching for the treatment of upper trapezius trigger points

Abstract

This randomised controlled experiment compared the efficacy of ultrasound with stretching and ischemic compression therapy for treating upper trapezius trigger points. Thirty participants who met the requirements for participation were split into Group A (Ischemic Compression Therapy) and Group B (Ultrasound with Stretching) i.e. 15 participants in each group. Cervical flexion, rotation, and pain measures were taken before and after the intervention. Both treatments had a noticeable impact on each group's range of motion and pain levels. Increased flexion and rotation were seen, along with lower postintervention pain levels. These results emphasise the potential advantages of both approaches in treating trigger points in the upper trapezius