Kinesio Tape Application With EDF Technique on Active Trigger Points of Upper Trapezius Muscle

In this double-blinded, prospective randomized sham controlled multi centered study, the aim was to investigate the efficacy of EDF technique on pain intensity, number of active TrPs, cervical ROM and disability levels in patients with MPS on upper trapezius (UT) muscle.180 patients were randomly allocated to kinesio taping (KT) group or sham group. Applications were done two times 1 week apart. VAS-pain scores, disability scores , cervical ROM angles and number of trigger points were evaluated as outcome parameters. Vas-pain scores and number of trigger points were assessed at baseline, after 1 week and after 2 weeks (at the end of the study). Cervical ROM angles and disability (measured by Neck Pain Disability Scale) were assessed at baseline and at the end of the study. Both groups received home exercise program. As a result application of KT with EDF technique to the UT muscle provided a significant improvement in pain level, disability, number of active TrPs and cervical ROM angles and found superior to sham application.