Radiofrequency diathermy on latent myofascial trigger points in the upper trapezius

What is it about?

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of Digital Capacitive Diathermy (DCD®) on stiffness, pain, cervical range of motion, and cervical disability and to compare it with ultrasound (US) in patients with latent myofascial trigger point (MTrP) in the upper trapezius. Nineteen participants with latent MTrPs in the upper trapezius were included in the assessor-masked, randomized, clinical crossover trial. Subjects were exposed to both interventions: US and DCD® and treatment effectiveness was measured by myotonometric variables, pressure pain threshold (PPT), visual analog scale (VAS), cervical side-bending flexion ranges, and the neck disability index scale (NDI).

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Photo by George Savva on Unsplash

Photo by George Savva on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Although both therapies can generate a thermal effect, the literature shows that the DCD® produces thermal effects deeper in the tissue and over larger areas than US therapy. However, to our knowledge, no studies show the effect of this therapy on muscle stiffness and its role in the deactivation of MTrPs.