• Yildiz Analay Akbaba, Mutlu Ebru Kaya EK Division of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey., Suleyman Altun, Ezgi Turkmen, Tansu Birinci, and Derya Celik.
• Division of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey.
• J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil. 2019 Jan 1; 32 (3): 519-527.

BackgroundStudies have emphasized the importance of the presence of myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) in patients with rotator cuff pathologies and the high frequency of MTrPs in rotator cuff muscles.ObjectiveEvaluate the effectiveness of the treatment of active MTrPs in patients with rotator cuff pathologies.MethodsFifty-three patients with rotator cuff tear were randomized into two groups. All patients received the same standard conservative treatment twice a week for 6 weeks. Patients in Group 1 additionally received ischemic compression (IC) of MTrPs. Pain, range of motion (ROM), function, and anxiety and depression were assessed. MTrPs in rotator cuff muscles were assessed manually, and the number of MTrPs on the shoulder complex was counted.ResultsThere were no significant differences between the groups in terms of changes in resting/activity/night pain, ROM, function, or anxiety and depression (p> 0.05). Pain scores improved only in Group 1. However, the total number of MTrPs was significantly decreased in Group 1 (p= 0.001).ConclusionA six-week course of IC helps treat active MTrPs. A standard conservative treatment program reduced pain and increased function; the addition of MTrP treatment did not improve clinical outcomes in patients with rotator cuff pathologies.

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