The effect of release massage and stretching exercises on Pain, Range of Motion and Functional Disability of the Neck due to Myofascial Trigger Points of the Trapezius Muscle

The aim of this study was the effect of release massage and stretching exercises on pain, ROM and functional disability of the Neck due to Myofascial Trigger Points of the Trapezius Muscle. 30 patients were divided into three groups including massage group, stretching group and control group. Patients in experimental groups received training for 8 weeks. Pain, ROM and functional disability were measured with a visual analog scale, goniometer and Neck Pain and Disability Scale, respectively. The results showed that stretching exercises and massage led to a significant increase in ROM and a significant decrease in pain and functional disability. Also, significant differences were observed between the two groups for all variables. Based on the results, massage can have more advantages than stretching exercises, but due to the benefits of stretching movements as an exercises approach, these exercises are recommended for trigger points.