Effect of different physiotherapy practices on pain, function and quality of life in patients with myofascial pain syndrome

In this study, we aimed to investigate the effectiveness of static ultrasound (high power pain threshold ultrasound) and kinesio taping applications in addition to routine physiotherapy in patients with myofascial pain syndrome. We separated 45 patients diagnosed with myofascial pain syndrome into 3 groups. The first group was treated with static ultrasound on their trigger point, the second group was treated withkinesio tape application; while the third group was treated with 15 sessions of placebo for 3 weeks. The post-treatment values of the patients were compared with their pre-treatment values and the effects of these treatments on the total limitation of neck joint motion (goniometer), pressure pain threshold (algometer), quality of life (SF-36) and neck functional capacity evaluation were examined. The first evaluation was made before the treatment and the second evaluation was made after 4 weeks. In our study, pain threshold and VAS values of trigger points decreased and algometer values increased in all three groups after treatment(p<0,05). In our intergroup comparison ; while there was no difference between groups 1 and 3 (p> 0,05); group 1 was higher than group 2 (p<0,05). After four weeks of treatment, there was a decrease in the total limit value of neck normal range of motion in all three groups. The functional status of the patients was assessed with Neck Disability Index (NDI) and a decrease in Neck Disability Index values was observed in all 3 groups as a result of our study (p <0,05).There was a decrease in favor of Group 1 when comparing Group 1 and Group 2, but nodifference was observed between Group 1-3 and Group 2-3 (p> 0,05) regarding Neck Disability Index values. In conclusion, we concluded that high-intensity ultrasound (static ultrasound) and kinesio tape application in patients with myofascial pain syndrome may be added to the treatment program in order to reduce pain and increase functioning.