The Impact of Myofascial Therapy on Connective Tissue

Summary

The study involved patients who suffered from myofascial pain caused occupational or sports overloads or muscle strains caused by sports or improper preparation for physical activity. The patients had not been previously treated for this reason. The only form of therapy was self-administered over-the-counter painkillers and ointments. Due to lack of relief, patients received one of two types of treatments, myofascial therapy or deep tissue massage. Each group was divided into three subgroups, depending on the location of the symptoms: arm, forearm, calf. The patients received three treatments on alternate days. Ultrasound imaging examination was performed by a physiotherapist, qualified to assess soft tissues using an USG. Two measurements were taken, before and seven days after therapy. To standardise the assessment, ultrasound imaging protocol was used.

The thickness of the fascia was measured by ImageJ software. The aim of the study was an ultrasound imaging assessment of connective tissue of patients undergone myofascial therapy.

Conditions

• Painful
• Fascial Manipulation
• Fascia
• Pain
• Myofascial Pain
• Myofascial
• Myofascial Dysfunction

Interventions

PROCEDURE

Myofascial therapy

The myofascial therapy in the form of Fascial Distortion Model (FDM) method is based on the idea that issues within the musculoskeletal system stem from deformations or distortions in the fascia. Once the type of deformation is identified, a specific technique is employed by the physiotherapist using their hands and pressure. FDM identifies six types of fascial distortions that can cause pain and other musculoskeletal issues. These distortions include triggerbands, continuum distortions, cylinder distortions, herniated triggerpoints, tectonic fixations, and folding distortions.

PROCEDURE

Deep Tissue Massage

A deep tissue massage is a therapeutic technique that focuses on realigning deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue. It is particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with chronic pain, muscle tension, or injury recovery. The physiotherapist uses more intense pressure compared to other massage types, like Swedish massage. The goal is to reach deeper muscle layers to relieve tension and pain. The therapist employs various techniques, including long, slow strokes, deep finger pressure, and friction, also use elbows, knuckles, or forearms to apply pressure to specific areas.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Józef Piłsudski University of Physical Education

  lead OTHER

Study Design

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

BASIC_SCIENCE

Masking

TRIPLE

Model

PARALLEL

Eligibility

Min Age

18 Years

Max Age

60 Years

Sex

ALL

Healthy Volunteers

No

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2023-07-03

Primary Completion

2024-06-01

Completion

2024-07-31

Countries

• Poland

Study Locations