Acute Effect of a Single Functional Neurology Intervention on Muscular Trigger Point

Featured Application: This study provides valuable insights into the potential application of functional neurology interventions as a non-invasive treatment for myofascial trigger points (MTrPs). The findings suggest that clinicians and physiotherapists can incorporate functional neurology techniques to enhance pain relief and muscle function in patients suffering from MTrPs, particularly in the upper trapezius muscle. The improvements demonstrated in pressure pain threshold (PPT) and peripheral vascular response indicate that functional neurology interventions could serve as a viable alternative or complement to traditional therapies such as manual therapy, dry needling, or pharmacological treatments. Moreover, the non-invasive nature of this approach presents a promising solution for patients seeking drug-free pain management strategies, potentially leading to broader adoption in clinical and rehabilitation settings. Future applications may also extend to sports performance enhancement, occupational health programs, and preventive care for musculoskeletal disorders. Background: Myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) are hyperirritable spots in skeletal muscle associated with pain and dysfunction, often impacting individuals’ quality of life. Various interventions, such as dry needling and manual therapy, have shown limited effects in addressing these conditions. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a functional neurology intervention in reducing pain and improving muscle function in patients with MTrPs in the upper trapezius muscle. We hypothesized that a single session of functional neurology intervention would significantly increase the pressure pain threshold (PPT) and improve peripheral vascular response in individuals with myofascial trigger points compared to a control group. Methods: A randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted with 63 participants randomly assigned to an experimental (receiving functional neurology treatment) or control group. Pre- and post-treatment assessments were conducted, and both intra- and inter-group comparisons were performed using algometry to measure the PPT and infrared thermography to analyze peripheral vascular response. Data were analyzed using dependent and independent t-tests with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The experimental group demonstrated a significant 46.4% increase in PPT, while the control group showed negligible changes. Thermographic analysis indicated improved peripheral blood flow in the experimental group, reflected by increased skin temperatures and reduced thermal anomalies. No significant differences were observed between the groups at baseline. Conclusions: A single session of functional neurology intervention significantly reduced pain and improved muscle function in patients with MTrPs. These findings suggest that functional neurology offers a promising non-invasive alternative to traditional treatments, with potential implications for more rapid and sustained therapeutic outcomes. © 2025 by the authors.

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INDEXACION SCOPUS

Palabras clave

functional neurology; pain; physiotherapy; thermography; trigger point

URI

https://repositorio.unab.cl/handle/ria/63865

Colecciones

FEd - Artículos de Revista

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