IMMEDIATE EFFECTS OF INSTRUMENT-ASSISTED SOFT TISSUE MOBILIZATION VERSUS ISCHEMIC COMPRESSION ON PAIN AND RANGE OF MOTION IN TRAPEZITIS

BACKGROUND: Trapezitis is a common inflammatory condition among college students, often caused by poor posture, overuse of mobile devices, prolonged static positioning and sudden one-sided movements. It leads to pain, stiffness, and reduced cervical mobility. IASTM and IC are used for myofascial release, limited research compares their immediate effects. This study aims to provide evidence on the best technique for reducing pain and improving cervical ROM. AIM & OBJECTIVE: To study the immediate effects of IASTM versus IC on pain by NPRS and ROM by digital goniometer in college students with upper trapezitis. METHOD: 30 participants selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. They were divided into two groups: Group A received IASTM and Group B received IC. Both groups received a hot pack before treatment and active cervical spine exercises post-treatment. The subjects were evaluated using the NPRS and Digital-goniometer at pre and post-treatment intervals. RESULT: Both groups demonstrated significant reductions in pain and improvements in ROM. However, between-group comparisons revealed no significant difference in pain reduction (IASTM: 3.46 ± 0.55 vs. IC: 3.47 ± 0.75; p = 1). IASTM resulted in significantly greater improvement in ROM (Left: 6.91 ± 0.68 vs. 2.97 ± 0.78; p = 0.000021, Right: 6.58 ± 0.08 vs. 3.65 ± 0.02; p = 0.000013). CONCLUSION: Both IASTM and IC were effective in reducing pain and improving cervical range of motion in students with trapezitis. However, IASTM showed significantly greater improvements in ROM, indicating its superior effectiveness in enhancing mobility. Keywords: Upper Trapezitis, Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM), Ischemic Compression (IC).