Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilisation versus stripping massage for upper trapezius myofascial trigger points.

Objective: This study investigated the effects of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilisation (IASTM) versus stripping massage (SM) on myofascial trigger points in the right upper trapezius.

Method: Forty patients (34 women and 6 men), aged 18-23 years, with active trigger points in the right upper trapezius were divided into two equal groups (A and B). Group A (n = 20) received IASTM using an M2T blade twice a week for four weeks in addition to stretching exercise.