Quantification of changes in myofascial trigger point sensitivity with the pressure algometer following passive stretch.

In order to determine the relationship between trigger point sensitivity and the referred symptoms of myofascial pain, VAS ratings of referred pain intensity and pressure algometer measures of myofascial trigger point sensitivity were taken pre and post treatment of the muscle containing the trigger point with passive stretch. The results in 20 subjects, experiencing unilateral or bilateral myofascial head and neck pain, showed that myofascial trigger point sensitivity decreases in response to passive stretch as assessed by the pressure algometer, and that trigger point sensitivity and intensity of referred pain are related.