Comparative study between the effects of ultrasound and phonophoresis in patients with trapezitis

Aim: To compare the effects of ultrasound and phonophoresis on pain and ROM in trapezitis patients.
Background: Trapezitis is an inflammation of trapezius muscle which results from the overloading and injury of muscle tissue, leading to involuntary shortening of localized fibres. Ultrasound is used for the treatment of soft tissue injuries; primarily used to deliver heat to deep musculoskeletal tissues which produces therapeutic effects of increased soft tissue extensibility and decreased pain and muscle spasm. Phonophoresis is therapeutic ultrasound used to introduce pharmacologic agents, usually anti-inflammatory or analgesic drugs, through intact skin into the subcutaneous tissues.
Methodology: Experimental study was conducted in physiotherapy OPD considering randomized controlled trial sampling. 60 samples were selected and VAS and ROM was assessed. They were divided into 2groups that is 30 samples each receiving treatment with ultrasound and phonophoresis. Treatment was given for 5 consecutive days along with isometrics for cervical spine. VAS and ROM was assessed and compared.
Results: Significant pain reduction (p<0.0001) was seen in both groups but ROM significantly improved in phonophoresis group (p<0.0001).
Conclusion: Ultrasound and Phonophoresis both are beneficial in reducing pain, whereas, there is significant improvement in ROM using Phonophoresis than compared to Ultrasound.