Abstract
M.Tech. (Chiropractic)
Myofascial trigger points (MTrP’s) cause acute discomfort to intense pain
and often lead to the use of pain medication as well as loss of man hours
(Simons, Travell and Simons, 1999a; Tough, White, Cummings, Richards
and Campbell, 2009). Dry needling is very effective and is widely used for the treatment of
MTrP’s (Vulfsons, Ratmansky and Kalichman, 2012), but comes with
various significant drawbacks, such as the experience of pain during or
after treatment (post-needling soreness) or individuals with needle phobias
(Unruh, Strong and Wright, 2002). More serious risks also exist, including
damage to the viscera (Dommerholt and Fernández-de-las-Peñas, 2013).
Low level laser therapy (LLLT) is a non-invasive technique and very little
discomfort or pain is experienced by the patient during and after treatment.
LLLT is effective in the short- and long-term relief of trigger points and
myofascial pain syndrome. Therefore it can easily serve as an alternative
to myofacial dry needling (Chow and Barnsley, 2005).
This study aimed to determine whether LLLT or myofascial dry needling is
more effective in the treatment of active MTrP’s, specifically those of the
gluteus medius muscle. It also aimed to determine if LLLT could serve as
an alternative treatment to dry needling in cases where dry needling is
contraindicated or not desired.
Thirty participants who complied with the inclusion criteria were divided
into one of two groups. Group 1 (n=15) received dosages of LLLT directly
to the active MTrP’s in the gluteus medius muscle and Group 2 (n=15)
received myofascial dry needling to active MTrP’s in the gluteus medius
muscle. Each participant attended 6 treatment sessions over a course of 2
weeks as well as a 7th measurements-only session.