Effect of the Graston Technique and Cupping Therapy on Pain and Functions in Individuals With Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Background The discomfort in the mid-shaft and distal end of the tibia caused by shin splints or tibial periostitis also known as medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS) is frequently induced by participating in sports or other strenuous activities. The two treatment methods used in this study are the Graston technique and cupping therapy; we have compared cupping with the Graston technique. Method It was an interventional study at Ravi Nair Physiotherapy College and Acharya Vinoba Bhave Rural Hospital. A total of 46 participants with MTSS were included in the study. The participants were randomly divided into two groups and treated for three weeks with four weekly sessions. Result Statistical analysis was done after the completion of sampling. Paired and unpaired t-tests were used. A p-value of <0.05 was considered significant. The result was obtained after comparing the pre and post values of the visual analog scale (VAS), treadmill test, step-up and step-down tests, manual muscle testing (MMT), and range of motion (ROM) of the ankle joint. After three weeks of treatment, pain with a p-value of 0.01 S showed a significant effect, and improved functions were reduced in the cupping and Graston technique groups. When compared, cupping therapy showed better results than the Graston technique. Conclusion We saw that the cupping therapy might be better than the Graston technique in reducing pain and improving functions.