Effect of the intergrated neuromuscular inhibition technique on upper trapezius myofascial trigger points: A case series

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of the Integrated Neuromuscular Inhibition Technique (INIT) for treating Myofascial Trigger Points (MTrPs) in the upper trapezius muscle on outcomes of pain, Range of Motion (ROM) and disability. Methods: 18 patients mean age 27± of 14.78 years were screened for inclusion/exclusion criteria. The INIT was administered three times a week for 4 weeks. The verbal Numerical Pain Rating scale (NPRS), cervical lateral flexion ROM and Neck Disability Index (NDI) were recorded at baseline, 2 and 4 weeks. Results and Conclusion: There were positive changes in all outcome measures for all eighteen participants. An increase in ROM and reduced levels of pain and disability were noted. This case series suggests that a short-term multimodal therapy would be beneficial for individuals with upper trapezius MTrPs. Important preliminary data was collected that will inform more rigorous research in this field of research.