Changes in sternocleidomastoid and descending portion of trapezius muscles in terms of electromyography and pressure pain threshold: women with chronic neck pain after acupuncture treatment.

Objective: To evaluate the sternocleidomastoid and the descending portion of the trapezius muscles in terms of electromyographic activity and pressure pain threshold in women with chronic cervical pain after acupuncture treatment.

Methods: Twenty-five women, aged 18-50 years [(31±3) years], with chronic neck and temporomandibular disorder participated in the study. The electromyographic activity of the sternocleidomastoid muscle and the descending portion of the trapezius muscle were recorded at rest, during shoulder elevation, (left and right) rotation of the neck and crucifix position.