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Comparison Between High-Intensity Laser Therapy and Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy in the Treatment of Myofascial Pain Syndrome
Sponsor: MTI University
Summary
This randomized single-blind controlled trial compares the effectiveness of High-Intensity Laser Therapy (HILT) versus Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), both combined with standardized traditional physiotherapy, in patients with upper trapezius myofascial pain syndrome. Forty participants will be randomly assigned to receive either HILT (12 sessions over 4 weeks) or ESWT (4 sessions over 4 weeks). Primary outcome is pain intensity (NPRS); secondary outcomes include pressure pain threshold, neck disability index, and cervical range of motion.
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - 60 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
40
Start Date
2025-10-10
Completion Date
2026-04-05
Last Updated
2026-05-12
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
High-Intensity Laser Therapy (HILT)
will be administered to active myofascial trigger points in the neck and shoulder region. The laser device used is an 808 nm gallium-aluminum-arsenide (GaAlAs) diode laser in continuous mode. Parameters: power output of 8-10 W, frequency of 2000 Hz, and application time of 60 seconds per trigger point, targeting 5-6 trigger points per session. Treatment will be delivered twice weekly for 4 consecutive weeks, totaling 8 sessions.
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)
ESWT will be applied to active myofascial trigger points using a radial shockwave device. Parameters: Energy flux density 0.1-0.2 mJ/mm², 2000 shocks per session, frequency of 2 sessions per week for 4 weeks (8 sessions).
Locations (1)
Faculty of Physical Therapy, Benha University
Cairo, Egypt