Immediate Effects of Multiple Ischemic Compression Applications on Pain Sensitivity and Biomechanical Properties of Myofascial Trigger Points

<b>Background:</b> Myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) are hyperirritable spots within taut bands of skeletal muscle fibers, often developing in overloaded muscles. Ischemic compression (IC) is a frequently used therapeutic technique for MTrP treatment. <b>Material and Methods:</b> Seventy-nine participants with MTrPs in the upper trapezius muscle were included. Three IC protocols were used. In group 1, the compression force was increased once; in group 2, twice; and in group 3, three times-each time up to the pain threshold, then held constant until the pain subsided. Evaluations included pressure pain threshold (PPT), pressure pain perception (PPP), and myotonometric measurements. <b>Results:</b> PPT values increased significantly in group 2 (<i>p</i> = 0.009) and group 3 (<i>p</i> = 0.009), while PPP values decreased significantly in both groups (group 2: <i>p</i> = 0.016; group 3: <i>p</i> = 0.041) post-intervention. Group 1 showed a significant reduction in muscle tone (<i>p</i> < 0.001), and group 2 in muscle stiffness (<i>p</i> = 0.036). Muscle elasticity significantly improved in all groups: group 1 (<i>p</i> = 0.022), group 2 (<i>p</i> = 0.001), and group 3 (<i>p</i> = 0.042). <b>Conclusions:</b> IC applied with a constant force at the individual's pain perception threshold effectively elevates the pain threshold and enhances the biomechanical parameters of muscle fibers in the trigger point area.