Efficacy of Positional Release Technique on Tenderness, Level of Scapular Protraction and Quality of Life in Patients with Rhomboid Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a major cause of chronic pain and functional disability, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. These conditions involve the muscles, bones, tendons, and ligaments, leading to discomfort, restricted mobility, and impaired quality of life. Among MSDs, Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) is a prevalent condition characterized by localized muscle pain, stiffness, and the presence of trigger points—hyperirritable spots within a muscle that can cause referred pain. MPS commonly affects various muscle groups, with the rhomboid muscles being particularly susceptible due to their role in scapular stabilization and posture maintenance.

Rhomboid Myofascial Pain Syndrome (RMPS) is a specific form of MPS that occurs due to overuse, poor posture, muscle imbalances, or repetitive strain. Individuals suffering from RMPS often experience persistent upper back pain, tenderness, muscle tightness, and postural abnormalities, such as increased scapular protraction. These symptoms can significantly impact daily activities, work performance, and overall well-being. Traditional treatment modalities for RMPS include stretching, strengthening exercises, trigger point therapy, and postural correction. However, these interventions may not always provide long-lasting relief, necessitating the exploration of alternative therapeutic approaches.

Positional Release Technique (PRT) is a gentle, non-invasive manual therapy technique designed to alleviate musculoskeletal pain by placing affected muscles in a position of ease, allowing them to relax and reducing trigger point activity. This method has gained attention as an effective approach for reducing muscle tenderness, improving mobility, and enhancing neuromuscular function. PRT has been successfully utilized in managing various musculoskeletal conditions, but its efficacy in treating RMPS remains under-researched.

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Positional Release Technique in reducing tenderness, correcting scapular protraction, and improving quality of life in patients with Rhomboid Myofascial Pain Syndrome. By investigating PRT as a therapeutic intervention, this research seeks to bridge the existing knowledge gap and provide evidence-based insights into its clinical applicability. The findings of this study may contribute to enhancing physiotherapy practices and developing improved treatment protocols for patients suffering from RMPS.

NULL HYPOTHESIS

H01 : There is no significant difference in reduction of tenderness in rhomboid muscles            between patients with rhomboid myofascial pain syndrome who receive positional release         technique (PRT) intervention and those who do not.

H02 : There is no significant improvement in  scapular protraction range among patients           diagnosed with rhomboid myofascial pain syndrome who undergo positional release   technique (PRT) intervention.

H03 : There is no significant improvement in  scapular retraction range among patients diagnosed with rhomboid myofascial pain syndrome who undergo positional release      technique (PRT) intervention.

H04 : There is no significant improvement in the quality of life of individuals suffering from    rhomboid myofascial pain syndrome who undergo positional release technique (PRT)            intervention.

H05 : There is no significant improvement in the proprioception of individuals suffering from      rhomboid myofascial pain syndrome who undergo positional release technique (PRT) intervention.

H06 : There is no significant improvement in the pectoralis major muscle length of individuals suffering from rhomboid myofascial pain syndrome who undergo positional release technique (PRT) intervention.

H07 : There is no significant improvement in the pectoralis minor muscle length of individuals suffering from rhomboid myofascial pain syndrome who undergo positional release technique (PRT) intervention.

   ALTERNATE HYPOTHESIS

H11: There is a significant difference in the reduction of tenderness in rhomboid muscles between patients with rhomboid myofascial pain syndrome who receive positional release technique (PRT) intervention and those who do not.

H12: There is significant improvement in  scapular protraction range among patients diagnosed with rhomboid myofascial pain syndrome who undergo positional release  technique (PRT) intervention.

H13: There is significant improvement in  scapular retraction range among patients diagnosed with rhomboid myofascial pain syndrome who undergo positional release technique (PRT) intervention.

H14: There is significant improvement in the quality of life of individuals suffering from rhomboid myofascial pain syndrome who undergo positional release technique (PRT) intervention.

H15: There is significant improvement in the proprioception of individuals suffering from rhomboid myofascial pain syndrome who undergo positional release technique (PRT) intervention.

H16: There is significant improvement in the pectoralis major muscle length of individuals suffering from rhomboid myofascial pain syndrome who undergo positional release technique (PRT) intervention.

H17: There is significant improvement in the pectoralis minor muscle length of individuals suffering from rhomboid myofascial pain syndrome who undergo positional release technique (PRT) intervention.