Abstract
This clinical trial was based on determining, firstly, whether shockwave therapy was an effective form of treatment for iliotibial band syndrome and, secondly, whether treatment directed to the iliotibial band, tensor fascia lata and gluteus maximus complex was more effective than targeting the iliotibial band alone. The treatment protocols included: shockwave therapy delivered to the iliotibial band, tensor fascia lata and gluteus maximus myofascial trigger points. Thirty participants were recruited randomly and distributed into three groups of 10 participants each. All participants were between the ages of 18 and 60 years and were chosen after meeting the inclusion criteria. Group One received shockwave therapy treatment to the iliotibial band myofascial trigger points. Group Two received shockwave therapy treatment to the tensor fascia lata and gluteus maximus myofascial trigger points. Group Three received shockwave therapy treatment directed at the iliotibial band, tensor fascia lata and gluteus maximus myofascial trigger points. A total of six treatment consultations over a period of three weeks with a seventh consultation where only measurements were taken was performed in this clinical trial. Measurements were taken on the first, fourth and seventh consultations. After the patient read and signed the information letter and informed consent, a full case history, physical examination, hip regional and knee regional examination were performed at the first consultation. Subjective data included the Numerical Pain Rating Scale. Objective data included two Pressure Algometer readings of the most severe trigger points along the iliotibial band, tensor fascia lata and gluteus maximus muscles and Goniometer readings for the hip range of motion. The statistical data were analysed using the Friedman test for intra-group analysis and the Kruskal-Wallis test was used for inter-group analysis. Results exhibited that all three groups decreased in iliotibial band syndrome pain and improved trigger point threshold with the Pressure Algometer. However, Group Two revealed the greatest improvement for the hip range of motion. Therefore, due to the improvement from the data collected above, it can be assumed that shockwave therapy directed to the tensor fascia lata and gluteus maximus muscles is imperative when treating iliotibial band syndrome and that it is necessary to concentrate on all three muscular structures instead of the iliotibial band alone.
M.Tech. (Chiropractic)