Publications

Purpose: This study investigated the immediate effects of upper trapezius stretching intensity on muscle mechanical properties, pressure pain threshold (PPT), and cervical range of motion (CROM) in healthy adults.

Methods: Thirty-four healthy adults were randomly assigned 1:1 to two groups. The experimental group (n= 17) performed a prone stretch with maximal ipsilateral cervical rotation, maintained using a 1.5 cm support at the zygomatic region. The control group (n= 17) performed a seated stretch comprising contralateral lateral flexion, cervical flexion, and ipsilateral rotation with gentle overpressure applied by the non-dominant hand. Both protocols consisted of four sets of 30s stretching followed by 30s rest. Outcomes were collected immediately before and after the intervention. MyotonPRO variables on the dominant-side upper trapezius included Frequency (muscle tone), Stiffness, Decrement, Relaxation Time, and Creep, PPT was assessed with a digital algometer, CROM (extension, flexion, bilateral rotation, bilateral lateral flexion) was measured with a CROM device. Within-group pre-to-post changes and between-group differences were analyzed with conventional tests at α= .05.

Results: For MyotonPRO outcomes, the experimental group exhibited a significant change in Frequency (p<.05), whereas the control group demonstrated significant changes in Frequency, Stiffness, and Relaxation Time (p<.05). For PPT, a significant change was observed only in the control group (p<.05). For CROM, the experimental group showed significant increases in extension and ipsilateral rotation (p<.05), while the control group showed significant increases in extension, contralateral lateral flexion, and ipsilateral rotation (p<.05). No between-group differences were identified for any outcome (p>.05).

Conclusion: In healthy adults, a rotation-focused stretching position produced effects comparable to those of a conventional position that maximally lengthens the upper trapezius. These preliminary findings suggest that further studies in individuals with cervical pain or mobility limitations are needed to identify more effective stretching strategies.

Keywords: CROM, muscle mechanical properties, pressure pain threshold, stretching, upper trapezius

Based on the present findings, a rotation-focused upper trapezius stretch performed in the prone position produced immediate effects comparable to those achieved with a conventional stretch intended to place the muscle in its most lengthened position. Clinically, when individuals cannot assume the position that maximally lengthens the upper trapezius, a rotation-focused stretch may provide a reasonable alternative for eliciting similar immediate responses in healthy adults. Therefore, based on this preliminary study, further research is warranted to determine effective stretching approaches in individuals with cervical pain or mobility limitations.