Comparison of Shoulder Abduction Range of Motion in Glenohumeral Joint in Individuals with and without Myofascial Trigger Points in the Upper Trapezius

• Published in: Journal of Musculoskeletal Science and Technology Vol. 7; no. 1; pp. 34 - 39
• Main Authors: Kim, Hyun-a, Kwon, Oh-yun
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: KEMA학회 01.06.2023
• Subjects: 물리치료학
• ISSN: 2635-8573; 2635-8581
• DOI: 10.29273/jmst.2023.7.1.34

Background Myofascial trigger points in upper trapezius are common in people with shoulder pain. However, there are few studies that have observed the shoulder abduction range of motion in glenohumeral joint in individuals who have upper trapezius pain with myofascial trigger points. Purpose The purpose of this study was to compare the glenohumeral joint abduction range of motion between individuals with and without upper trapezius pain. Study design Cross-sectional study. Methods Twenty-four subjects who had upper trapezius pain with myofascial trigger points and 24 sex-, age-, and weight- matched subjects who had no upper trapezius pain and myofascial trigger points participated. The shoulder abduction range of motion was measured with and without restricted scapular motion in both groups. Smart KEMA strength measurement system was used to restrict scapular motion. Results The glenohumeral joint abduction range of motion measured with restricted scapular motion was significantly decreased in the upper trapezius pain group compared to the control group (p<0.05). However, the general shoulder abduction range of motion had no significant difference between groups (p>0.05). Conclusions It was investigated that individuals with upper trapezius pain accompanied by myofascial trigger points had decreased shoulder abduction range of motion in the glenohumeral joint. This finding suggests that abduction range of motion in the glenohumeral joint with restricted scapular motion should be considered in evaluating and treating people with upper trapezius pain. KCI Citation Count: 0