rESWT vs LLLT for Cervical Myofascial Pain

Background and Aim: Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) in the cervical region is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders associated with myofascial trigger points that cause muscle pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion, precipitated by forward head posture. Many non-invasive modalities, including low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), have been reported to reduce symptoms. However, comparative effectiveness of these interventions remains unclear. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of radial ESWT and LLLT in reducing pain and improving functional outcomes in patients with cervical MPS among the working-age adults. Methods: A randomized controlled study was conducted in a working-age adults with MPS. Fifty subjects, divided in two groups received either ESWT or LLLT. Numeric rating scale (NRS), cervical range of motion (ROM), and craniovertebral angle (CVA) were assessed before and throughout three weeks post intervention. Results: Both LLLT and ESWT showed significant (p \< 0.001) changes in NRS, cervical ROM, and CVA. LLLT showed a difference in pain reduction at week three (p \< 0.001) and flexion and extension ROM at week two and three (p \< 0.05). Conclusion: LLLT demonstrated superior results in pain reduction at the three-week mark and produced greater increases in cervical flexion and extension ROM during the two- and three-week periods when compared with ESWT.

NCT Number	NCT07593781
Lead Sponsor	Indonesia University Collaborators: Dr Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital
Conditions	Myofascial Pain Syndrome - Neck, Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy, Low-Level Light Therapy, Trigger Point Pain, Myofascial
Enrollment	50 participants
Start Date	2024-10-01
Primary Completion	2025-08-30 (estimated)
Study Completion	2025-09-01 (estimated)
Updated on ClinicalTrials.gov	2026-05-19