Immediate Effect of Super Inductive System Therapy on Upper Trapezius Activity in a Patient with Chronic Trapezitis: A Case Report

Abstract

Background

Chronic trapezitis is often associated with sustained hyperactivity of the upper trapezius, leading to pain. The super inductive system (SIS), using deep-penetrating electromagnetic induction, is proposed to target muscles and provide analgesia. Surface electromyography (EMG) objectively measures muscle activity during contraction and rest. However, there is limited evidence on the immediate effect of SIS on trapezius EMG activity in chronic trapezitis.

Methods

This case report presents a 25-year-old female with 4 years of chronic trapezitis and bilateral upper trapezius trigger points, more pronounced on the right, with persistent symptoms. SIS therapy was applied to assess its immediate effect on trapezius activity. EMG recordings during rest and maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) along with numeric pain rating scale (NPRS) pain scores were measured before and after a 10 min SIS analgesia–chronic pain protocol.

Results

Post-SIS EMG showed reduced upper trapezius activity. MVIC decreased from 0.25 mV (right) and 0.22 mV (left) to 0.17 mV (right) and 0.18 mV (left). Resting EMG declined from 0.16 mV (right) and 0.15 mV (left) to 0.016 mV bilaterally. Pain intensity reduced from 8/10 to 4/10 immediately post-intervention.

Conclusion

A single session of SIS therapy produced an immediate reduction in overactivity of the upper trapezius and pain in a patient with chronic trapezitis, highlighting its effectiveness as a targeted intervention. However, further studies with larger samples and longer follow-ups are needed to establish the optimal number of treatment sessions required for effective management of trapezitis.

Keywords

trapezius super inductive system pain intensity muscle activity electromyography electromagnetic field

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