What question did this study set out to answer?

This study aims to compare the effectiveness of trigger point injection versus transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation in relieving myofascial pain syndrome.

July 9, 2026

Evaluation of Two Treatment Options in Myofascial Pain Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation versus Trigger Point Injection

Key Points

This study aims to compare the effectiveness of trigger point injection versus transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation in relieving myofascial pain syndrome.
32 patients diagnosed with MPS were divided into two groups: TENS (Group A) and TPI (Group B).
Pain intensity was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and functional outcomes through range of motion.
Statistical analyses included paired and independent t-tests with a significance level of P < 0.05.
Both TENS and TPI groups showed significant reduction in pain (P < 0.001).
TPI resulted in a higher percentage pain reduction of 61.2% compared to 40.3% for TENS.
Functional improvement was greater in the TPI group (30%) versus the TENS group (21%).

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a familiar musculoskeletal disorder regarded as trigger points causing pain and functional limitation. This research was done to assess the efficacy of trigger point injection (TPI) and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) in treating MPS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This research included 32 patients diagnosed with MPS, equally divided into Group A (TENS) and Group B (TPIs). Pain intensity was measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and functional outcome was assessed using range of motion. TENS was administered using standard parameters, whereas TPI was performed using 2% lidocaine under aseptic conditions. Statistical analysis was conducted using paired and independent t-tests, with P < 0.05. RESULTS: Both groups showed statistically considerable reduction in pain (P < 0.001). The TENS group demonstrated a decrease in mean VAS, whereas the TPI group showed a greater reduction. Intergroup comparison revealed significantly superior outcomes in the TPI group (P < 0.001). Percentage pain reduction was higher in TPI (61.2%) compared to TENS (40.3%). Functional perfection was also better in the TPI group (30%) than in the TENS group (21%). Effect size analysis confirmed a stronger clinical impact of TPI. CONCLUSION: Both TENS and TPI are effective in managing MPS; however, TPI demonstrates superior short-term efficacy, while TENS remains a safe and noninvasive alternative.

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