Therapeutic intervention on stabilisation parameters in patients with trigger points in suboccipital muscles: a case-control study

Introduction Hypertonus and the presence of trigger points (TrPs) in the suboccipital muscles (sOMs) frequently contribute to cervical proprioception disorders. Impaired cervical proprioception inevitably affects postural stability, which necessitates therapeutic intervention in conjunction with cervical spine therapy. The aim of this study was to examine the influence of the myofascial release technique (MFR) on stability parameters in patients diagnosed with TrPs in the sOM region. Material and Methods Twelve patients (eight females and four males, mean age = 37 ± 9.5 years) underwent postural stability assessment using a force platform (Sensor Medica, Rome, Italy) before and after sOM treatment, with a time interval of one hour. The study’s objectivity was supported by a control group comprising healthy participants (seven females and five males, mean age = 25 ± 3 years). Results The results indicated significant changes in stability parameters immediately after applying the MFR technique, particularly in patients with TrPs in the sOMs. Conclusions We recommend that patients undergoing MFR treatment maintain a safe position for at least a few minutes to prevent falls and dizziness.