Abstract
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of a low-load training program for the deep cervical flexors (DCFs) on pain, disability, and pressure pain threshold (PPT) over cervical myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) in patients with chronic neck pain.
METHODS: Thirty patients with chronic idiopathic neck pain participated in a 6-week program of specific training for the DCF, which consisted of active craniocervical flexion performed twice per day (10-20 minutes) for the duration of the trial. Perceived pain and disability (Neck Disability Index, 0-50) and PPT over MTrPs of the upper trapezius, levator scapulae, and splenius capitis muscles were measured at the beginning and end of the training period.
RESULTS: After completion of training, there was a significant reduction in Neck Disability Index values (before, 18.2 ± 12.1; after, 13.5 ± 10.6; P < .01). However, no significant changes in PPT were observed over the MTrPs.
CONCLUSION: Patients performing DCF training for 6 weeks demonstrated reductions in pain and disability but did not show changes in pressure pain sensitivity over MTrPs in the splenius capitis, levator scapulae, or upper trapezius muscles.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 604-11 |
Number of pages | 8 |
Journal | Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics |
Volume | 36 |
Issue number | 9 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 25 Oct 2013 |
Keywords
- Adolescent
- Adult
- Analysis of Variance
- Chronic Pain
- Cohort Studies
- Facial Neuralgia
- Female
- Follow-Up Studies
- Humans
- Male
- Manipulation, Spinal
- Massage
- Middle Aged
- Neck Muscles
- Neck Pain
- Pain Measurement
- Prospective Studies
- Sensory Thresholds
- Severity of Illness Index
- Treatment Outcome
- Trigger Points
- Young Adult
- Journal Article