Effect of magnesium sulfate iontophoresis on myofascial trigger points in the upper fibres of the trapezius
Ibrahim NA, et al.
Published in Journal of Taibah University Medical Sciences
Methodology
Randomised controlled trial comparing magnesium sulfate iontophoresis plus conventional therapy against conventional therapy in patients with upper trapezius myofascial trigger points, measuring VAS pain, pressure pain threshold and cervical range of motion.
Key Findings
In 60 patients with upper trapezius myofascial trigger points, adding magnesium sulfate iontophoresis to standard therapy over 4 weeks produced greater reductions in pain intensity and pressure-pain threshold sensitivity and improved cervical range of motion than the control treatment.
Conclusions
Magnesium sulfate delivered by iontophoresis appears to add benefit to conventional physiotherapy for trapezius trigger points, though this is a small single-centre physiotherapy trial rather than evidence for oral magnesium.
Limitations
Small sample, short 4-week follow-up with no durability data, difficulty blinding an iontophoresis intervention, and results specific to topical/transdermal delivery rather than supplementation.
Supplements Studied
MgSO4 iontophoresis is effective in improving pain level, neck ROM, and neck function in subjects with active MTrPs on the dominant upper fiber of trapezius.
Outcomes Measured
In 60 patients with upper trapezius myofascial trigger points, adding magnesium sulfate iontophoresis to standard therapy over 4 weeks produced greater reductions in pain intensity and pressure-pain threshold sensitivity and improved cervical range of motion than the control treatment.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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Disclosures
Funding
University institutional funding
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.