# Acute Effect of a Single Functional Neurology Intervention on Muscular Trigger Point
## 1 Introduction
Functional neurology techniques may reduce this hyperexcitability by engaging descending inhibitory pathways, particularly those projecting from the periaqueductal gray (PAG) and rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM) [20]. Additionally, the intervention may act through the gate control theory of pain, wherein increased sensory input from mechanoreceptors (via vibratory stimulation or proprioceptive modulation) inhibits nociceptive transmission at the spinal level [21]. The activation of A\(\beta\) fibers through non-nociceptive sensory input can reduce C-fiber transmission, thereby decreasing pain perception. Recent neuroimaging studies have shown that sensorimotor-based interventions can enhance corticospinal excitability, leading to functional reorganization of pain-processing areas, including the somatosensory cortex, anterior cingulate cortex, and insular cortex [22]. Functional MRI and EEG studies have demonstrated that interventions targeting proprioception and blink reflex stimulation can alter cortical activity patterns associated with chronic pain processing [23]. However, more research is needed to confirm the specific neural circuits modulated by functional neurology techniques. The theoretical foundation of functional neurology interventions is rooted in the principles of neuoplasticity and sensory-motor integration. Prior research suggests that neuromodulation techniques can influence cortical and subcortical structures involved in pain processing, potentially altering central sensitization mechanisms associated with myofascali trigger points. Studies on neurorehabilitation have demonstrated that sensory-based stimulation can enhance proprioceptive feedback and pain modulation pathways, reducing hyperalgesia and improving neuromuscular control. Furthermore, neuroimaging studies indicate that interventions targeting the brainstem and cerebellum--regions implicated in pain modulation--may contribute to reducing myofascali dysfunctions. However, limited research has explored these effects in the context of functional neurology treatments for trigger points, highlighting the need for empirical validation of their efficacy. This research aims to analyze the effectiveness of functional neurology interventions in reducing pain and improving muscle function, using infrared thermography in patients with MTrPs in the upper trapezius muscle. Traditional treatments for myofascali trigger points, such as dry seedling, manual therapy, and pharmacological interventions, primarily target local muscle dysfunction and nociceptive pathways. While these methods have demonstrated effectiveness, they often require multiple sessions, can be invasive (e.g., seedling), or may have side effects associated with pharmacological approaches. Functional neurology offers a non-invasive alternative that aims to modulate pain through sensory-motor integration, optimizing brain-body communication. Unlike localized treatments, this approach leverages neuroplasticity mechanisms to induce systemic effects on pain perception and muscle function, potentially providing immediate benefits with minimal intervention. Given the increasing interest in neurological approaches to pain management, evaluating the efficacy of functional neurology for myofascali pain is essential for broadening the therapeutic options available. Based on the proposed neuromodulatory effects of functional neurology techniques, we hypothesized that a single session of functional neurology intervention would lead to a significant increase in the PPT and an improvement in peripheral vascular response compared to a control condition. This study aims to evaluate the acute effects of this intervention, contributing to the understanding of its potential as a non-invasive therapeutic option for managing myofascali trigger points.