Abstract
M.Tech. (Chiropractic)
There is research to show that ischaemic compression is very effective in the treatment of
myofascial trigger points (MFTP’s). It is less invasive when compared to other treatment
methods such as dry needling however; according to Gulick (2010) there is a lack of
randomised controlled studies with regard to standard ischaemic compression treatment
protocols. This includes the appropriate amount of pressure, duration of compression or
frequency of treatment (Gulick, 2010).
This study was conducted in order to determine whether ischaemic compression that is
applied at pain threshold would have a similar effect when compared to ischaemic
compression at pain tolerance in the treatment of active rhomboid major and minor
myofascial trigger points, using a hand held algometer. This study was specifically
undertaken to provide more information regarding the most effective method of ischaemic
compression with regard to the amount of pressure that is most suitable during treatment.
The results of this study could potentially improve patient comfort and reduce pain during
treatment by showing that treatment at pain threshold may be as effective as conventional
ischaemic compression at pain tolerance.
It was hypothesized that ischaemic compression applied at pain threshold may have a
similar effect as application at pain tolerance by having a positive outcome on the
subjective and objective findings in patients with active myofascial trigger points of the
rhomboid major and minor muscles.
Participants were recruited into the study by word of mouth as well as with the use of
advertisements that were placed around the University of Johannesburg Doornfontein
campus and clinic. Thirty participants that conformed to the specified limitations and
diagnostic criteria were accepted to partake in this study. The participants were then
placed in a random and stratified manner into two groups of 15, based on age and gender.
Group A received ischaemic compression of the rhomboid major and minor muscles at
pain threshold while Group B received ischaemic compression of the same muscles at pain
tolerance. Ischaemic compression was administered over a 30 second duration. Each
participant received 2 treatments a week for 3 weeks while a 7th and final visit served only
for measurement taking.