Introduction: Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a syndrome characterized by painful trigger points on palpation located at certain points of common muscles of the musculoskeletal system. Active trigger points may cause spontaneous pain and many other consequences that affect quality of life and loss of work force. Extracorporeal shock-wave therapy (ESWT) is a treatment method performed with the help of acoustic waves created outside the body and used in musculoskeletal problems. There are radial or focused waves that are commonly used in ESWT. In Focused ESWT (F-ESWT), the depth of the body part to be injured can be adjusted. Thus, penetration into the tissue is better than radial waves. Radial ESWT (R-ESWT), on the other hand, has a more superficial effect, and its spread in liquids with a density similar to tissues is half that of focused ESWT. It has been shown in previous studies that radial and focused ESWT waves applied to trigger points in the upper trapezius fibers reduce reflected and local pain in myofascial pain syndrome. The aim of this study is to compare the effectiveness of radial and focused ESWT types on trigger points in trapezoidal upper fibers in myofascial pain syndrome. Methods: This prospective,sham-controlled double-blind study was carried out with total of 57 patients. They were randomized into 3 groups and received R-ESWT, F-ESWT and sham protocols for 10 sessions. Patients were evaluated and compared with Numerical rating scale (NRS), Health assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) and Beck Depression Scale (BDI) before treatment, just post treatment, 1st month, 3nd month and 6th month after treatment completed.
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Numerical Rating Scale
Timeframe: Before treatment, just post treatment, 1st month, 3nd month and 6th month after treatment completed.