Effectiveness of Myofascial Release (MFR) vs. High-Frequency Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) for Pain Relief and Functional Improvement in College Students With Trapezius Myalgia

Abstract

The pain in the trapezius muscle is known as trapezius myalgia. The patient often complains of trapezius muscle soreness and tightness. Muscle soreness usually lasts for a few days, if not longer. This muscular rigidity and stiffness cause spasms in upper trapezius fibres, culminating in neck discomfort in the posterior side of the neck and shoulder area. This protocol was designed to describe the study to evaluate the effect of myofascial release (MFR) versus high-frequency transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for pain relief and functional improvement in subjects with trapezius myalgia. Methods: Forty-five subjects with trapezius myalgia meeting inclusion criteria were selected for the study. Two groups were created, with group A undergoing MFR therapy and group B undergoing high-frequency TENS. The procedure was completed within four weeks. Regular assessments were carried out in the first week and fourth week of the rehabilitation. Throughout the recovery process, we evaluated pain, functional improvement, and range of motion of the neck at regular intervals. The outcome measures taken were the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and Neck Disability Index (NDI). Discussion: The intervention's efficacy was assessed by looking at pain alleviation using the outcome measures. The study's findings strongly supported the application of these approaches and modalities in the rehabilitation of myalgia patients.