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Novel method to measure active myofascial trigger point stiffness using ultrasound imaging
Mehdi Jafari1, Farid Bahrpeyma1, Manijhe Mokhtari-Dizaji2
1Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies
|June 5, 2018
Summary
This study introduces a new, cost-effective ultrasound method to measure the elastic modulus of myofascial trigger points (MTrPs). The findings show MTrPs are significantly stiffer than normal muscle tissue, aiding in diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Musculoskeletal Imaging
- Diagnostic Ultrasound
Background:
- Myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) are a primary cause of musculoskeletal pain.
- Ultrasound is a valuable tool for assessing musculoskeletal conditions.
- Quantitative analysis of tissue elasticity can aid in diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel ultrasound-based method for distinguishing MTrPs from healthy muscle tissue.
- To quantitatively measure the elastic modulus of MTrPs.
Main Methods:
- Assessed 29 subjects with sternocleidomastoid muscle MTrPs.
- Utilized a force gauge attached to an ultrasound transducer to apply stress.
- Recorded ultrasound images under stressed and unstressed conditions to determine strain.
- Calculated the elastic modulus (Young's modulus) by dividing stress by strain.
Main Results:
- MTrPs exhibited a significantly higher elastic modulus (13379.57 ± 1069.75 Pa) compared to normal muscle tissue (7078.24 ± 482.92 Pa).
- Statistical analysis confirmed MTrPs are stiffer than surrounding healthy muscle (P = 0.001).
Conclusions:
- A new, simple, and low-cost ultrasound method effectively quantifies the elastic modulus of MTrPs.
- This quantitative measurement allows for the differentiation of MTrPs from normal muscular tissue.
- The findings support ultrasound elastography as a diagnostic tool for MTrPs.
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