Immediate Effects of Strain Counterstrain Versus Fascial Distortion Model on Upper Trapezius Latent Trigger Points

This pilot study aimed to compare the immediate effects of two manual therapy techniques, strain counterstrain (SCS) and the fascial distortion model (FDM), on pain-related outcomes and neuromuscular function in individuals with latent myofascial trigger points of the upper trapezius muscle. Twenty healthy adults with identified latent trigger points were randomly assigned to receive a single session of either SCS or FDM. Cervical range of motion, proprioception, pressure pain threshold, and cervical muscle strength were assessed before and immediately after the intervention. This study was conducted to obtain preliminary data regarding the short-term effects of two manual therapy approaches with contrasting stimulation characteristics.