Abstract
M.Tech. (Chiropractic)
Purpose: The aim of this study is to compare chiropractic manipulative therapy of the
tibiotalar joint alone, a combination of chiropractic manipulative therapy and dry needling,
and dry needling of the peroneus muscles alone and their effect on the active peroneal
trigger points in people with a history of ankle trauma.
Method: Thirty symptomatic participants with a history of ankle trauma and presence of
active peroneal trigger points were selected. The participants were randomly allocated into
3 groups, each group presenting a different treatment. Group 1 received a tibiotalar
manipulation. Group 2 received a tibiotalar manipulation as well as dry needling of the
peroneus trigger points. Group 3 received only dry needling of the peroneal trigger points.
The participants needed to fulfil the inclusion and exclusion criteria to form part of this study.
Each participant had to have six consultations within a three-week period. Each participant
received five treatments out of the six consultations.
Procedure: Objective data was collected using an algometer to measure pressure pain
threshold as well as a goniometer to measure ankle range of motion. Subjective data was
collected by use of the Numerical Pain Scale rating. Once the pain scale rating was
completed the algometer and goniometer readings were recorded prior to treatment on the
first and third visits as well as two days after the last treatment. The data was then analysed
by a statistician.
Results: Clinical improvement was noted in all three over the duration of the study with
regards to pain and a slight increase in range of motion. The combination of chiropractic
manipulation and dry needling of active peroneal trigger points did show the greatest
improvement in algometer measurements as well as numerical pain scale readings. The
manipulation group had the greatest increase in range of motion. No statistical significance
was observed between the groups.
Conclusion: The results indicated that all three approaches are effective in the treatment of
active peroneal trigger points after ankle injury. A combination of chiropractic ankle
manipulative therapy as well as dry needling of peroneal trigger points did prove to be slightly
more effective than the other treatments.