Effectiveness of Myofascial Release with Icing Versus Ultrasound with Ischemic Compression in Patients with Upper Trapezitis: An Experimental Study

Background: Trapezitis is a painful inflammatory condition of the trapezius muscle, often associated with myofascial pain. It typically presents with muscle tightness and discomfort, leading to reduced neck mobility. The condition is most commonly observed in individuals between 18 and 50 years of age. Physiotherapeutic approaches such as myofascial release with icing and ultrasound combined with ischemic compression are frequently used to manage symptoms, but limited evidence exists comparing their effectiveness in treating upper trapezitis.  Objective: To find out the effectiveness of myofascial release with icing vs ultrasound with ischemic compression in patients with upper trapezitis.  Methods: An experimental study was conducted on a total of 30 subjects with the upper trapezitis condition present for not more than 3 months. They were taken and allocated into two groups comprising 15 subjects in each group by the lottery method, as group 1 received myofascial release (MFR) followed by icing, while group 2 received ischemic compression followed by ultrasound. Outcome measures were the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain and the Universal Goniometer for measuring Range of Motion (ROM).  Duration: Total duration of four weeks, three treatment sessions per week  Results: The statistical analysis showed a significant difference between the two groups. This shows that subjects in group 1 showed a significant improvement over those in group 2.  Conclusion: The study concluded that the MFR, along with icing, is more effective in improving the neck range of motion, especially neck lateral flexion, and reducing pain in individuals with upper trapezitis.