Effect of ischemic pressure using a Backnobber II device on discomfort associated with myofascial trigger points

SummaryObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of ischemic pressure on myofascial trigger point (MTrP) sensitivity.DesignRandomized, controlled study with the researcher assessing MTrP sensitivity blinded to the intervention.ParticipantsTwenty-eight people with two MTrPs in the upper back musculature.InterventionThe sensitivity of two MTrPs in the upper back was assessed with a JTECH algometer. One of the two MTrPs was randomly selected for treatment with a Backnobber II, while the other served as a control.Outcome measuresPre- and post-test pressure–pain thresholds of the MTrPsResultsThere was a significant difference between the pre- and post-test sensitivities of the treated and non-treated MTrPs (p = 0.04).ConclusionsThe results of this study confirm that the protocol of six repetitions of 30-s ischemic compression with the Backnobber II rendered every other day for a week was effective in reducing MTrP irritability.