Computational Mathematical Analysis in Vastus Medialis Between a MTrP and Non Painful Point

Nowadays, myofascial trigger points (MTrP) represent one of the most common musculoskeletal alterations in clinic, being many times diffuse and complex to diagnose and localize. Ultrasound is a therapeutic tool used in physiotherapy for assessment and treatment. Some of its advantages include the quickness and harmlessness. Linking these two concepts, there is no vast evidence regarding the identification of myofascial trigger points through ultrasound. A computational mathematical analysis was performed throughout ultrasound images of the vastus medialis in order to characterize MTrPs, where images of 66 participants vastus medialis were taken. Two investigators made the finger point palpation locating a MTrP and a non-painful point. A third investigator screened the photographs with the ultrasound and a preset for the zone. 3 images were taken from the MTrP, 3 from the non-painful point, and other 3 of a different MTrP, in case the investigators disagreement of the MTrP location. A fourth investigator carried out the histogram analysis using Fiji software. Lastly, stastistical analysis of the study variables was performed.

Inclusion criteria

• 18-65 year old.
• Presence of pain on palpation along the course of the muscle fibers of the vastus medialis of the quadriceps.
• Painful point and/or localized tense band with or without radiation of pain to the knee area or adductor region.

Exclusion criteria

• Serious diseases (neurological, psychiatric, systemic diseases, obesity).
• Knee or hip surgeries.
• Muscle tears in a state of recovery in the vastus medialis of the quadriceps.
• Inability to position yourself in a lateral decubitus position.