Comparison of Static and Dynamic Myofascial Decompression on Gastrosoleus Muscle Power and Latent Trigger Point Pain in Normal Healthy Women

Abstract

Objectives: Muscle performance is an essential component of an individual that is influenced by physiological, anatomical, psychological, and biomechanical factors. It includes flexibility, muscle strength, agility, and cardiovascular and aerobic endurance. Treatment approaches like stretching and myofascial decompression help improve flexibility and thereby muscle performance. This study explores the effects of static and dynamic myofascial decompression on gastro soleus trigger point pain and power. Materials and Methods: 105 healthy normal women in the age group of 20-30 yrs were enrolled in the study. The subjects were divided into three groups by simple random sampling using the chit method. Group A received static myofascial decompression, dynamic stretching, and cryotherapy. Group B received dynamic myofascial decompression, dynamic stretching, and cryotherapy whereas Group C received dynamic stretching and cryotherapy. Lower extremity muscle power and functional performance were tested by Vertical jump height. The Gastrosoleus muscle’s myofascial trigger point pain sensitivity was measured with a pressure algometer. Statistical Analysis: Data was analyzed using SPSS. The difference in the mean Vertical jump height and pain pressure threshold values between the groups were analyzed using one-way ANOVA. Intra-group analysis was done using Repeated Measures ANOVA. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05, at a 95% confidence interval. Results: Participants in all three groups showed clinical improvement, however, the differences in the three groups were not statistically significant. In the dynamic myofascial decompression group, a significant (P < 0.05) carry-over effect was seen in the vertical jump height test post 5 days of intervention. Conclusion: Static and Dynamic myofascial decompression are equally effective in reducing pain and improving gastro soleus muscle power in subjects with latent trigger points. There was a sustained carry-over effect was seen in the vertical jump height test in the dynamic myofascial decompression group after 5 days of intervention.

Keywords

• cupping
• dynamic stretching
• muscle power
• static stretching
• trigger points