Muscle Tenderness in Adults with Neck/Shoulder Pain
Author Information
Author(s): Andersen Lars L, Hansen Klaus, Mortensen Ole S, Zebis Mette K
Primary Institution: National Research Centre for the Working Environment
Hypothesis
The study aims to evaluate the prevalence and anatomical location of muscle tenderness in adults with nonspecific neck/shoulder pain.
Conclusion
A high prevalence of tenderness exists in several anatomical locations of the neck/shoulder complex among adults with nonspecific neck/shoulder pain.
Supporting Evidence
- Women had higher tenderness scores in neck/shoulder muscles compared to men.
- Severe tenderness was most prevalent in the levator scapulae and neck extensors among women.
- Men showed a primary source of severe tenderness in the levator scapulae.
Takeaway
Many adults with neck and shoulder pain feel tenderness in different muscles, not just the upper trapezius.
Methodology
Participants underwent clinical neck/shoulder examinations to assess tenderness in eight anatomical locations using standardized finger pressure.
Potential Biases
The study may be biased due to the subjective nature of manual palpation tests.
Limitations
The small number of men in the study may increase the risk of statistical errors, and the anatomical overlap of muscles may weaken the ability to determine tenderness precisely.
Participant Demographics
198 generally healthy adults with frequent nonspecific neck/shoulder pain, including 174 women and 24 men aged 25-65.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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