Effects of Active Release Technique Versus Deep Transverse Friction Massage on Pressure Pain Threshold and Muscle Activity Among Young Adults with Upper Trapezius Myalgia

Author: Balu S., Mohanraj G. and Mohanraj K.

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Abstract

The upper trapezius is one of the postural muscles which is highly susceptible to overuse. An awkward position of neck and shoulder in turns reduces the activities of upper trapezius. This study aims to examine the effectiveness of positional release technique and deep transverse friction massage in young adults who are all having upper trapezius myalgia. Pre-test and Post-test experimental study. The study was done on 50 patients of both male and female between the age group of 16 to 32 years with upper trapezius myalgia. Pre and post-test were taken for pain using digital algometer and muscle activity by EMG signals. The analysis was done using paired and unpaired t test to compare the outcome measures of the two group and there is a significant reduction in the pain at pressure pain threshold and a significant increase in the muscle activity in both the group (p<0.0001). However group B is more effective in improving muscle activity and reducing pain when compared to group A. From this study the results indicate that both the treatments are effective in upper trapezius myalgia patients to reduce pain and improve muscle activity. However, in Group B who received Active release technique showed better improvement in reducing pain and improving muscle activity than Group A who received deep transverse friction massage

Keywords

Upper trapezius, Active release technique, deep transverse friction massage, digital algometer, muscle activity, pain, EMG signals

Conclusion

The study findings suggest that both Deep transverse friction massage and Active release technique are effective interventions for improving physiological and functional outcomes, including pain tolerance, muscle activity. However, Active release technique demonstrated a greater overall impact across most measured variables compared to Deep transverse friction massage. The significant improvements in Pressure Pain Threshold observed in the PRT group indicate that this intervention is particularly effective in enhancing pain tolerance, likely due to its focus on muscle relaxation and the release of tension. The greater increases in muscle activity and strength in the Active release technique group suggest that it may also be more effective in promoting neuromuscular efficiency and muscle strength, possibly due to its emphasis on passive muscle release, which can enhance motor unit recruitment and muscle function. The improvements in posture observed in both Active release technique and Deep transverse friction massage groups further underscore the benefits of these therapies in enhancing postural alignment and stability. However, the greater gains in the Active release technique group suggest that this intervention may be more effective in addressing postural imbalances and improving overall body mechanics

References

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How to cite this article

Balu S., Mohanraj G. and Mohanraj K. (2023). Effects of Active Release Technique Versus Deep Transverse Friction Massage on Pressure Pain Threshold and Muscle Activity Among Young Adults with Upper Trapezius Myalgia. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 955-958