Comparative Effects of Static Dry Cupping and Passive Static Stretching on Upper Trapezius Muscle Activity in Symptomatic Laptop Users: A Randomized Controlled Study
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial
Abstract: Background: Prolonged laptop use may impose sustained demands on the cervical and shoulder musculature and contribute to altered upper trapezius muscle activity. Static dry cupping (SDC) and passive static stretching (PSS) are commonly used conservative approaches, but comparative evidence based on objective muscle-activity measures in symptomatic laptop users remains limited. Objective: To compare the effects of SDC and PSS on upper trapezius muscle activity in symptomatic laptop users and to determine whether changes in muscle activity differed across baseline, post-intervention, and follow-up assessments. Methodology: This randomized controlled, three-group parallel study included 45 participants aged 18-40 years with neck pain and upper trapezius spasm lasting >2 weeks. Participants were randomly allocated to SDC (n=15), PSS (n=15), or control (n=15). SDC was administered twice weekly, while PSS targeting the upper trapezius and levator scapulae was performed 5 days/week for 4 weeks. sEMG amplitude (µV) was assessed at baseline (T0), post-intervention (T1), and 1-week follow-up (T2). Between-group differences were analyzed using one-way ANOVA with Tukey HSD, and temporal changes using repeated-measures ANOVA with Bonferroni-adjusted comparisons. Results: Baseline sEMG amplitude was 48.2±5.1 µV for SDC, 47.9±5.3 µV for PSS, and 48.5±4.9 µV for control. At T1, values decreased to 28.4±4.2 µV, 35.7±4.8 µV, and 46.8±5.0 µV, respectively. Between-group differences were significant (F(2,42)=58.34, p<0.001), with all Tukey comparisons significant. Repeated-measures ANOVA showed significant effects of time (F(2,84)=89.21, p<0.001) and Time×Group interaction (F(4,84)=34.45, p<0.001, η²=0.62). At T2, sEMG remained reduced in SDC (26.1±3.9 µV) and PSS (33.2±4.5 µV). Conclusion: Both SDC and PSS reduced upper trapezius sEMG amplitude, with SDC producing the greater immediate reduction. Larger trials with longer follow-up and combined objective and patient-reported outcomes are recommended.
DOI: 10.55735/wjt4gr60
Institution: Government College University, Faisalabad
Language: English
Subfield: Cell Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7204251023