Comparative Study of Percutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation versus Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation on Trigger Points in Levator Scapulae Muscle.

Abstract

Myofascial pain syndrome can be  defined as motor, sensory and autonomic symptoms that cause Myofascial trigger points (MTrP). These are hyperirritable areas in skeletal muscle  associated with hypersensitive nodule in a taut band. Trigger Points causes shortening of muscles often compress adjacent nerves. This  irritates the nerve and disturbs the signal transmission system of nerves. This leads to irregular sensations, causing numbness, tingling, and burning.  Present study was undertaken to find out the effectiveness of Percutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (PENS) Vs. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) for treating MTrP. Experimental study was conducted with 60 participants fulfilling inclusion and exclusion criteria. Informed consent was taken from the subjects. PENS was administered in Group B and TENS therapy was administered to Group A for a period of 3 weeks, 3 sessions per week. Pre on Day 1 and post on Day 9th assessments were taken by using Pressure Algometer and Range of motion by Universal Goniometer . Vitamin C supplement was recommended prior to the treatment for patients who were treated with PENS for post needle soreness and rapid healing.The outcome of Pressure Algometer and ROM were statistically analyzed. It was found to be effective with P value<0.000.. There was significant decrease in pain recorded in Numerical Pain Rating Scale NPRS and increased in Pain Pressure threshold in patients treated in both the groups.  Statistically both the  Groups are competent enough to alleviate pain but clinically PENS showed better response in pain depletion and functional mobility compared to TENS .