Date of Award

Spring 8-1-1990

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Physical Education

First Advisor

Blanche W. Evans

Second Advisor

Robert Bells

Third Advisor

David R. Hopkins

Abstract

The study investigated the treatment methods of trigger point massage therapy and transcutaneous electrical muscle stimulation (TENS) with the intent of clarifying which method decreased the level of muscular tension in the upper trapezius muscle more effectively over various time periods. The members of the Indiana State University softball team, consisting of sixteen women, were the subjects for this study. The subjects were randomly assigned to one of three groups: a trigger point massage group; a TENS group; and a control group. Using electromyography, the subjects were tested four times throughout the treatment procedure. The control group participated in the testing at the appropriate times, but underwent no treatment. The electromyographic (EMG) readings were taken at rest using surface electrodes. The EMG readings were then digitized to obtain levels of tension for data analysis using repeated measures ANOVA from the SPSSx statistical package. No significant differences were found in EMG measures among the three groups for any test period. No significant difference was found for EMG measures between the right and left side. Therefore, more research must be completed before any technique can be scientifically accepted as the preferable muscular treatment method.

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