Dry Needling Versus Integrated Neuromuscular Inhibition Technique on Upper Trapezius Myofascial Trigger Points

Background: Active myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) are major paingenerators in myofascial pain syndrome and have a significant impact onthe quality of life, pain and functional disability in the neck. dry needlingand integrated neuromuscular inhibition technique are two effectivetechnique used in the treatment of active MTrPs. Objective: to comparebetween the effect of dry needling and integrated neuromuscularinhibition technique on upper trapezius active MTrPs . Subjects andMethods: Thirty patients participated in the study and were assignedrandomly into two equal groups; group (A) receieved dry needling andpassive stretching exercise while group (B) received integratedneuromuscular inhibition technique and passive stretching exercise.Measurment outcome included pressure pain threshold (PPT) whichmeasured by digital electronic pressure algometer and neck functionawas measured by neck function disability index (NDI) and pain intensitywas measured by visual analogue scale (VAS) that were taken at thebeginning of the treatment period as pre- test measurement and at the endof the treatment period ( 3weeks) as a post-test measurement. Results:Both groups showed significant improvement in PPT, NDI and VAS posttreatment compared with that pre treatment (P < 0.001); however therewas significant increase in PPT and significant decrease in NDI and VASof group A compared with that of group B post treatment (p < 0.001).Conclusion: According to the findings of the study dry needling wasmore effective than integrated neuromuscular inhibition technique on themanagement of upper trapezius active myofascial trigger points.