In 2011, study conducted by Dawn T. Gulick, et. al., the effectiveness of ischemic pressure in addressing myofascial trigger point (MTrP) sensitivity was investigated. Myofascial trigger points are localized areas of muscle tightness and discomfort commonly encountered in clinical practice.

The study employed a randomized, controlled design, with the researcher blinded to the intervention during the assessment of MTrP sensitivity. The participants in the study consisted of twenty-eight individuals who each presented with two MTrPs in their upper back muscles.

For the intervention, the sensitivity of these MTrPs was assessed using a JTECH algometer. One of the two MTrPs was randomly chosen for treatment with a Backnobber II device, while the other was designated as a control.

The study yielded noteworthy findings, indicating a significant difference between the pre- and post-test sensitivities of the treated and non-treated MTrPs (p=0.04). This indicates that the treatment with the Backnobber II, involving six repetitions of 30-second ischemic compression sessions every other day for a week, was effective in reducing the irritability of MTrPs.

In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the efficacy of ischemic pressure applied through the Backnobber II device for addressing discomfort associated with myofascial trigger points. The protocol employed in the study demonstrated a notable reduction in MTrP irritability. These findings contribute to our understanding of therapeutic interventions for MTrPs and may offer a promising approach to alleviating the discomfort experienced by individuals with these musculoskeletal issues. Further research and clinical application of this technique may hold potential for improving the management of myofascial trigger points in the upper back musculature.

Reference: Gulick, D. T., Palombaro, K., & Lattanzi, J. B. (2011). Effect of ischemic pressure using a Backnobber II device on discomfort associated with myofascial trigger points. Journal of bodywork and movement therapies, 15(3), 319-325.