Abstract

Aim. Trapezius myalgia is a common musculoskeletal condition characterized by pain and trigger points. Electromyography biofeedback (EMG) can improve muscle activation, while active exercise significantly reduces pain and stiffness. This study aimed to examine the effect of EMG biofeedback exercise training and active exercise, along with integrated neuromuscular inhibition technique (INIT), in individuals with trapezius myalgia. Material and methods. This double-blind study included seventy participants with trapezius myalgia, randomly assigned to two groups after informed consent. Both groups received 10 minutes of INIT. The EMG biofeedback group (n=35) performed exercises with electrodes on the upper trapezius, while the active exercise group (n=35) performed exercises without electrodes. Both interventions lasted 15 sessions over 3 weeks. Results. After the intervention, the EMG biofeedback group showed a decrease in Neck Disability Index (NDI) scores to 12.71 ± 1.67, whereas the active exercise group had no significant reduction (24.17 ± 3.13). Post-test pressure algometer scores were higher in the EMG biofeedback group (136.05 ± 5.35) compared to the active exercise group (119.68 ± 3.01). Statistical analysis revealed significant t-values of 19.057 (p < 0.0001) for NDI and 15.752 (p < 0.0001) for pressure algometer scores, indicating the efficacy of EMG biofeedback in reducing neck pain and enhancing pressure sensitivity. Conclusions. The study demonstrates that EMG biofeedback is more effective than active exercise in reducing pain and improving functional ability in individuals with trapezius myalgia.

Key words

trapezius myalgia, emg biofeedback, integrated neuromuscular inhibition technique, active exercise, neck disability index