A Specific MFR Technique for Treatment of Non-Specific Upper Quadrant Mylagia and Paraesthesia – A Case Study

Posted:Tuesday, August 4, 2015

Honorable Mention
Sebastien Vachon-Gravel
Atlantic College of Therapeutic Massage
Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada

Abstract
Objective: Investigate whether a case presenting with non-specific upper quadrant
muscle pain and neurological dysfunction would benefit from an isolated myofascial
release (MFR) technique, entitled herein as direct fascial glide with static unwinding (DFG-
SU), in a multitude of related variables: degree of disability and pain, shoulder girdle
kinematics and pectoralis minor length, unilateral upper-extremity strength, and
neurological functioning.
Methods: The intervention consisted of six treatments over a period of five weeks
with pre- and post-intervention examinations. Pain characteristics and degree of disability
was monitored with the Revised Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ-2) as
well as the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) and performance of Apley’s
scratch test, respectively. Shoulder girdle kinematics was examined via the combination
of an inclinometer and goniometer. Pectoralis minor length was assessed using a tape
measure against a table and a wall in supine and standing positions, respectively. A handheld
dynamometer allowed for the quantification of grip strength on the affected side.
Finally, tactile sensation and Tinel’s sign was compared using a three-point ranking
system from normal sensation to anaesthesia.
Results: Overall degree of pain, disability, and neurological pain ameliorated after
the intervention, yet no notable change in pectoralis minor length or shoulder girdle
kinematics was noted. Nonetheless, the restricted aspect of Apley’s scratch test and
unilateral grip strength improved by 3.5cm and 2kg, respectively. Finally, tactile
sensation and Tinel’s sign improved from presence of paraesthesia to normal sensation.
Conclusions: The results suggest that the MFR technique described herein
improved overall wellbeing and competence in daily tasks without significantly altering