Myotonometric Evaluation of Latent Myofascial Trigger Points and Taut Band in Elite Athletes

Purpose: Our aim was to identify the mechanical properties of latent myofascial trigger points (MTrPs), taut band and non-taut (surrounding muscle) within gastrocnemius muscle using myotonometric evaluation method. Methods: Thirty-one asymptomatic elite rugby players (23.0±4.16 y, 97.5±22.1 kg, 183.5±7.6 cm) with a MTrP in lateral included this study. Muscle stiffness, decrement tone MTrPs, were measured myotonometer (MyotonPRO, Myoton AS, Tallinn, Estonia). One-way ANOVA conducted determine differences between three measurement points. After pairwise comparisons, Cohen’s d effect sizes calculated magnitude Results: Although stiffness MTrPs lower than its band, one-way revealed that there no difference vs for frequency, parameters (p>0.05). However, is (P= 0.016), (P=0.035) (P=0.012) are as d=0.64, d=0.69 d=0.62 respectively. Conclusion: The bands showed an increase compared surrounding muscle. could be easily identified from myotonometer. Therefore, potentially valuable method identification athletes.