Immediate Effects of Acupuncture for Managing Myofascial Trigger-Point Pain: A Pilot Study

Abstract Background: Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a chronic pain disorder that continues to challenge researchers and clinicians. Current treatments for MPS include trigger-point injections, dry needling, acupuncture, and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. However, it is not known which of these treatment modalities is most effective. Objective: The immediate effects of trigger-point acupuncture in myofascial pain and heart rate variability (HRV) were assessed. Design, Setting, and Patients: Eight female patients with a mean age of 26.4±9.3 years, who had MPS participated in this study. Intervention: The trapezius and rhomboid muscles were examined for myofascial trigger points. The painful myofascial trigger points were identified by palpation, and trigger-point acupuncture was performed. Main Outcome Measure: Pain level and HRV were the primary outcomes measured. Baseline and post-treatment pain assessment was performed using a visual analogue scale. HRV was analyzed using electrocardiographic signs that were recorded throughout the treatment protocol. Results: Acupuncture at trigger points significantly decreased pain scores from 7.1±1.7 to 3.6±1.6 ( p =0.00028), while it had no significant effect on HRV. Conclusions: These preliminary results suggest that myofascial trigger-point acupuncture can be an effective method for relieving MPS-related pain.