Radial extarcorporeal shock waves: therapeutic myofascial protocol

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of radial shock waves in myofascial upper trapezius syndrome following the global treatment scheme of key trigger points. Materials and methods 26 patients treated with rESWT (Radial shock wave therapy) after a global postural and myofascial assessment of the patient and the identification of the key trigger points. At the end of the treatment each subject was re-evaluated through the Numerical Rating Scale - NRS and through the examination with Electronic Baropodometer. In this study, we compared the values of NRS and the values of postural biometrics before and after 2 sessions of rESWT, and a statistically significant difference (P <0.05) in all measurements emerged in the values measured with NRS. In the static percentage load, a statistically significant reduction in the percentage load differences (right / left) (P <0.05) was observed in all three evaluation moments (T0, T1, T2). The percentage and statistically significant improvement (P <0.05) were recorded at time T2 in the surface of the ellipse. Greater control of balance and greater awareness of the base of support was found in the calculation of the sway path, in particular with closed eyes. Based on this experience, the use of radial shock waves in pathologies related to myofascial pain with postural implications would be desirable.