Comparison of soft tissue therapy and post isometric relaxation (PIR) among young adults with pain in the thumb muscles

Background
De Quervain's syndrome is an inflammation of the tendon sheath in the first dorsal compartment of the forearm. This condition is commonly observed in individuals performing repetitive thumb movements and ulnar deviation of the wrist. Although physiotherapy is frequently mentioned as a treatment method for this syndrome, there is a lack of studies comparing the effectiveness of isometric muscle relaxation and soft tissue therapy.

Aims
This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of two therapeutic techniques—post-isometric muscle relaxation and soft tissue therapy—in reducing pain and increasing the range of motion in ulnar deviation. The study focuses on individuals with a positive Eichhoff test, evaluating the therapeutic effects both immediately after treatment and after seven days.

Material and methods
The study included 67 individuals aged 18–35 years with a positive Eichhoff test. Participants were divided into three groups: (1) post-isometric muscle relaxation, (2) functional massage, and (3) a control group. Pain intensity and the painfree range of motion in ulnar deviation were measured, with data collected through a survey.

Results
Both therapeutic techniques yielded similar outcomes. A statistically significant decrease in pain symptoms and an increase in the pain-free range of motion were observed (p < 0.001). While both interventions showed effectiveness, no significant difference was found between post-isometric muscle relaxation and functional massage in terms of pain reduction and mobility improve- ment. The observed benefits persisted through-out the seven-day follow-up period, suggesting short-term efficacy of both approaches.

Conclusions
Both forms of therapy produced rapid effects that persisted for seven days post-treatment. These findings highlight the potential utility of post-isometric muscle relaxation and functional massage as non-invasive therapeutic options for managing De Quervain’s syndrome. Further research with a larger sample size and extended follow-up is necessary to determine the long-term efficacy and potential superiority of one method over the other.