Short term effects of Laser therapy and Kinesio Taping on Myofascial trigger points of upper trapezius in Young adults - A Randomised Controlled trial

Neck pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders. It is characterized by localized or referred pain, tenderness at specific points, and limited Cervical range of Motion (CROM). Chronic neck pain (CNP) persists for over 3 months, significantly affecting quality of life. The primary cause is often myofascial pain in the upper trapezius. Simons defined myofascial pain syndrome as a complex of sensory, motor and autonomic symptoms that are caused by myofascial trigger points. It often results from prolonged poor posture, repetitive strain, and muscle overuse, leading to functional limitations and decreased quality of life. The myofascial trigger points are more commonly observed in the postural muscles, especially the upper trapezius muscle.

Need of the study while various technique exists, there is growing interest in non-invasive and patient friendly care. Class 4 diode laser is a high-power laser that penetrates deeper into tissues, promoting anti- inflammatory effects, improved circulation, and pain relief. While kinesio tape support soft tissue structures, reduces the local pressure, and improves lymph drainage. Class 4 diode laser therapy (high-power laser) has gained attention for its deep tissue penetration, anti-inflammatory effects, pain modulation, and enhanced microcirculation, promoting muscle healing and relaxation. Kinesiology taping, on the other hand, is widely used to provide proprioceptive feedback, support soft tissue structures, reduce muscle strain, and improve circulation. While Class 4 laser can help in reducing pain and inflammation at a cellular level, kinesiology taping can provide mechanical support and facilitate muscle function.

Novelty our study includes both subjective (VAS for pain) and objective measures (PPT, cervical ROM), it enhances the novelty by providing quantifiable data on impact of intervention. This research is unique in its focus on young adults aged 18-35 years, a demographic often overlooked in prior studies.

Null hypothesis laser therapy with kinesio tape will not show any significant difference on pain, cervical range of motion and disability in young adults with myofascial trigger points in upper trapezius.

Alternate hypothesis laser therapy with kinesio tape will show significant difference on pain, cervical range of motion and disability in young adults with myofascial trigger points in upper trapezius.

Primary objective to evaluate the effects of laser therapy and kinesio taping on pain in myofascial trigger points of upper trapezius in young adults, to determine the effects of laser therapy and kinesio taping on cervical range of motion in myofascial trigger points of upper trapezius in young adults, to determine the effects of laser therapy and kinesio taping on disability in myofascial trigger points of upper trapezius in young adults.

Methodology 36 participants will be selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria mentioned above. Participants will be randomly allocated to 2 groups, group a laser therapy and group b taping additional to laser therapy will be given. Outcomes will be measured pre and post intervention on 0th day and end of 4th session will be taken,  pain will be taken on visual analogue scale, range of motion on universal goniometer and disability with neck disability index.

Data analysis descriptive data will be analyzed by mean, standard deviation, frequencies and percentage. Paired t-test will be administered to compare within the groups. Independent t-test will be administered to compare between the groups. p value significance will be less than 0.05.