Changes in Pressure Pain Threshold of the Upper Trapezius, Levator Scapular and Rhomboid Muscles during Continuous Computer Work

[Purpose] This study investigated the changes in pressure pain threshold of the upper trapezius, levator scapular, and rhomboid muscles during continuous computer work. [Subjects] Fourteen males and females aged 26–32 years, were recruited. [Methods] A dolorimeter pressure algometer was used to measure the pressure pain threshold of the upper trapezius, levator scapular, and rhomboid muscles, respectively, before computer work and after 15 min, 30 min, and 60 min of computer work. [Results] The pressure pain threshold of the upper trapezius was significantly decreased after 15 min or more of computer work. The pressure pain threshold of the levator scapular was significantly decreased after computer work for 30 min and 60 min. The pressure pain threshold of the rhomboid muscle was significantly decreased after 60 min of computer work. [Conclusion] Continuous computer work could produce much more pain in the levator scapular and rhomboid muscle than the upper trapezius.