Effectiveness Of The Court-Type Traditional Thai Massage Versus Topical Diclofenac In Treating Patients With Myofascial Pain Syndrome In The Upper Trapezius

A single-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted to examine the effectiveness of the court-type traditional Thai massage in reducing pain and stiffness in patients with myofascial pain syndrome in the upper trapezius. Ninety patients were randomly allocated into two groups. The treatment group (n=45) received a session of 30-minute massage twice a week, for 6 weeks. The control group (n=44, one dropped out) received topical diclofenac (4 gm t.i.d.) for 6 weeks. Pain intensity, cervical range of motion and pressure pain threshold were assessed at week 0 (baseline), week 6 (completed intervention), week 8 and week 12 (follow-ups). Quality of life was assesses at week 0 and week 12 using the 36 Item Short Form Health Survey. The age, gender, height, weight, pain period, and side of pain were not statistically significant different between two groups (p > 0.05) at baseline. After intervention and follow-ups, there were statistically significant improvements in pain intensity, quality of life, all cervical range of motion and pressure pain threshold (p < 0.05). The results revealed the effectiveness of the court-type traditional Thai massage for patients with myofascial pain syndrome in the upper trapezius.