The relative effectiveness of the four-electrode as opposed to the pen-electrode interferential current method in the treatment of myofascial pain syndromes

Abstract

The purpose of this investigation was to determine the relative effect of the four-electrode as opposed to the pen-electrode interferential current method in the treatment of myofascial pain syndromes. This was a randomised clinical trial consisting of two groups. Group A received four-electrode interferential current therapy, while Group B received pen-electrode interferential current therapy. Each group consisted of 15 subjects, between the ages of 18 and 55 years, selected from the general population. Subjects diagnosed with active myofascial trigger points in any of the following muscles: trapezius, levator scapulae, supraspinatus, infraspinatus and rhomboid major and minor, were admitted into the study. Each subject received five treatments over a period of three weeks followed by a one-month follow-up consultation. Each subject was assessed by means of the CMCC Neck Disability Index, short-form McGill Pain Questionnaire and the Numerical Pain Questionnaire; as well as pain threshold readings by means of an algometer and cervical spine ranges of motion measurements by means of a cervical goniometer. Readings were taken at the first, fifth and follow-up consultations for all subjective and objective measurements.