Comparison of Development of Upper Trapezius Trigger Point in Computer Operators with or without Fore arm support

Abstract

Background:Computer work often involves both physical and mental demands. The physical demands are characterizedby low-force exertions and static postures that are sustained for long durations. Elevated shoulder postures,prolonged static contractions and the task duration have been identified as computer-related risk factorsfor neck and shoulderproblems, so this is responsible for development of trigger points particularly in the uppertrapezius muscles in forearm-unsupported computer operators as compared to forearm-supported.The uppertrapezius (UT)is designated as a postural muscle and is highly suspected ofoveruse because it works constantlyagainst gravity to maintain an erect head and neck position. This studyaims to identify upper trapezius triggerpoints (TrPs) developed with or without forearm support (FS) in computer operators.Materials and Methods: The study took place in the worksite of computer operators in Nagpur,Maharashtra for1.5 year. With a power of 90 and significance error of 1%, a total of 40 patients were taken according to the convenientsampling and divided into two categories computer operators Group A: with FS and Group B: without FS,following signs and symptoms like Trigger point, posterolateral neck and upper back pain most common in which group assessed by using, VAS (Visual Analogue Scale) for measuring pain intensity, Trigger Point Rating Scale is used for myofascial screening. Neck Disability Index for assessing the neck-related disability due to pain taken.Result: The study was conducted on 40 people, in which 20 people with forearm support and 20 people withforearm unsupported. The result is that forearm support reduces the load on the UTand also reduces the risk ofdevelopment of upper trapezius TrPs as compared to the forearm unsupported.Conclusion: Based on the results of these studies, it has been concluded that the development of UT TrPsincomputer operators without FS is more common as compared to FS.