Effectiveness of Integrated Neuromuscular Inhibition Technique and Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation in the Management of Upper Trapezius Myofascial Trigger Points

Abstract

Background: This study was designed to inspect the effectiveness of Integrated Neuromuscular
Inhibition Technique (INIT) and Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation (IASTM) on Upper
Trapezius Myofascial Trigger Points.
Purpose: To compare the effectiveness of integrated neuromuscular inhibition technique and instrument
assisted soft tissue mobilization in the management of upper trapezius myofascial trigger point
Materials and Methods: Sixty subjects with Active Trigger Points (53 females and 7 males) were
divided randomly into two equal groups. Group “A” received INIT three times/week while Group
“B” received IASTM once/week for two weeks. Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Neck Disability
Index (NDI) and Active Cervical Range Of Motion (CROM) were used to evaluate subjects at two
intervals (Pre-Treatment and Post-Treatment).
Results: Statistical analysis show that there is a significant change within-group for NPRS, NDI and
CROM (Lateral Flexion) pre and post treatment with a p<0.0001 for both Groups A and B. Betweengroup
analysis is statistically significant with p=0.0026 for NPRS, p=0.0569 for NDI and p<0.0001 for
AROM thus with superiority for INIT in reducing pain and improving ROM.
Conclusion: Integrated Neuromuscular Inhibition Technique is more effective than Instrument
Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation in the Management of Upper Myofascial Trigger Points.