CAM for myofascial trigger points and pain syndrome
Researchers from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College in Toronto reviewed the evidence for complementary therapies.
First, the details.
- This review is based on The Scientific Commission of the Council on Chiropractic Guidelines and Practice Parameters (CCGPP).
- 112 articles were identified.
And, the results.
Myofascial trigger points
- Moderately strong evidence supports manipulation and ischemic pressure for immediate pain relief.
- Limited evidence exists for long-term pain relief.
Myofascial trigger points and myofascial pain syndrome
- Strong evidence supports laser therapy.
- Moderate evidence supports transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), acupuncture, and magnet therapy.
- The duration of relief varies among these therapies.
- Limited evidence supports electrical muscle stimulation, high-voltage galvanic stimulation, interferential current, and frequency modulated neural stimulation.
- Evidence is weak for ultrasound therapy.
The bottom line?
The article provides a starting point for comparing complementary therapies for myofascial trigger points and pain syndrome.
More information on myofacial trigger points and myofascial pain syndrome is here.
1/6/09 22:08 JR