The effect of high intensity laser therapy in the management of myofascial pain syndrome of the trapezius: a double blind, placebo–controlled study

Abstract

Background/Purpose: Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) of the trapezius muscle is one of the main causes of neck pain. In this randomized, double blinded study, we planned to evaluate the effects of high–intensity laser therapy (HILT) in female patients with chronic MPS of the trapezius muscle.

Methods : The female patients with the diagnosis of MPS of the trapezius muscle, were enrolled in the study and assigned to two groups. HILT group (group1) was treated with HILT and exercise. Sham therapy group (group2) received placebo HILT and exercise. The patients were assessed for pain, cervical active range of motion, disability and quality of life. Evaluations were performed before treatment (week 0) and after treatment (week 4 and week 12).

Results : Both groups showed significant improvement for all parameters  at week 4 and week 12. However, comparison of the percentage changes of parameters both at week 4 and week 12 relative to pretreatment values showed that improvement in pain scores, neck disability index and physical functioning, role limitations due to physical functioning, bodily pain, general health perceptions, social functioning and role limitations due to emotional problems subparts of SF-36 were better in HILT group.

Conclusion : As a result, it is concluded that HILT is an effective therapeutic method in the treatment of patients with chronic MPS of the trapezius muscle.

Key words: Myofascial pain syndrome, high–intensity laser therapy, exercise, pain, disability, quality of life.