Levator Scapulae Tightness, Myofascial Pain Syndromes
Conditions
Keywords
levator scapulae tightness, PIR in levator scapule tightness
Brief summary
Levator scapulae muscle tightness is a common cause of neck pain due to poor posture. This study compares two manual therapy techniques: Positional Release Technique (PRT) and Post Isometric Relaxation (PIR). The goal is to determine which technique is more effective at reducing pain, improving neck range of motion, and decreasing functional disability in patients with this condition. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either PRT or PIR for 4 weeks
Detailed description
This is a double-blind, randomized clinical trial. A sample of 44 participants aged 25-40 with levator scapulae tightness will be recruited from hospitals in Faisalabad. Participants will be randomly assigned to two groups (n=22 each). Group A will receive the Positional Release Technique (PRT) involving a 90-second hold of the scapula in a specific position. Group B will receive Post Isometric Relaxation (PIR) involving a 10-second contraction followed by a 10-second stretch. Both groups will receive a 10-minute hot pack before their respective techniques. Interventions will occur 3 times per week for 4 weeks (12 sessions total). Outcome measures include the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), cervical goniometry, and the Neck Disability Index (NDI), measured at baseline and after 4 weeks
Interventions
PROCEDUREPositional Release Technique
Patient lies prone. The therapist palpates the levator scapulae and uses the far hand to translate the scapula upward and apply rotation. The superior angle of the scapula is tilted downward. This position is held for 90 seconds. 10 repetitions for 3 sets per session.
PROCEDUREpost isometric relaxation
Patient lies supine. The therapist stabilizes the shoulder and supports the neck. The patient performs an isometric contraction by moving the head back against resistance for 10 seconds. After relaxation, a passive stretch is applied for 10 seconds. 10 repetitions for 3 sets per session.
Sponsors
University of Faisalabad
Study design
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Intervention model
PARALLEL
Primary purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
DOUBLE (Subject, Outcomes Assessor)
Masking description
Participants are unaware of which technique is theoretically superior. The outcome assessor measuring NPRS, ROM, and NDI will be blinded to group allocation
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
ALL
Age
25 Years to 40 Years
Healthy volunteers
No
Inclusion criteria
* Age between 25 to 40 years. * Both male and female. * Presence of a trigger point in levator scapulae (palpable tender spot with jump sign). * Score greater than 20% on the Neck Disability Index. * Unilateral non-specific neck pain. * Confirmation of trigger point via algometer.
Exclusion criteria
* History of trauma or fracture to the scapula or cervical spine. * Pregnancy. * Previous cervical spine surgery. * Diagnosis of cancer, cardiac condition, or infectious disease. * Specific neck pathology (e.g., disc prolapse, nerve root compression, whiplash).
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Change in Pain Intensity | Baseline and at 4 weeks (post-intervention) | Measured using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS). Participants rate their average neck pain on an 11-point scale where 0 = 'no pain' and 10 = 'worst imaginable pain' |
Secondary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Change in Cervical Range of Motion | Baseline and at 4 weeks (post-intervention) | Measured using a universal goniometer. Active range of motion will be assessed for cervical flexion, extension, lateral flexion, and rotation, measured in degrees |
| Change in Functional Disability | Baseline and at 4 weeks (post-intervention) | : Measured using the Neck Disability Index (NDI), a 10-item questionnaire. Total scores range from 0 (no disability) to 50 (complete disability), reported as a percentage |
Countries
Pakistan
Outcome results
None listed