High prevalence of shoulder girdle muscles with myofascial trigger points in patients with shoulder pain

2011

High prevalence of myofascial trigger points in shoulder pain patients

Sample size: 72 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Bron Carel, Dommerholt Jan, Stegenga Boudewijn, Wensing Michel, Oostendorp Rob AB

Primary Institution: Scientific Institute for Quality of Healthcare, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre

Hypothesis

The study aims to assess the prevalence of muscles with myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) and their association with pain severity and functioning in patients with chronic shoulder pain.

Conclusion

The prevalence of muscles containing active and latent MTrPs in patients with chronic non-traumatic shoulder pain was found to be high.

Supporting Evidence

All subjects with unilateral, chronic, non-traumatic shoulder pain presented with multiple shoulder muscle MTrPs.
The median number of muscles with active MTrPs per subject was 6.
Active MTrPs were most prevalent in the infraspinatus and upper trapezius muscles.
The number of muscles with active MTrPs was moderately correlated with the DASH score.
Patients with chronic shoulder pain may develop strategies to overcome pain and disability.

Takeaway

Many people with shoulder pain have sensitive spots in their muscles called trigger points, which can make their pain worse.

Methodology

An observational study was conducted with patients from a controlled trial, assessing the presence of MTrPs through physical examination and comparing sociodemographic data.