Comparing dry needling techniques for upper trapezius muscle pain

Treatment of Upper Trapezius Muscle Myofascial Pain Syndrome: Comparison of Ultrasound- Guided Dry Needling Techniques

Not applicable Interventional Abant Izzet Baysal University · NCT06546124

This study is testing two different dry needling methods to see which one helps people aged 20 to 50 with upper trapezius muscle pain feel better.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages20 Years to 50 Years
SexAll
SponsorAbant Izzet Baysal University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Bolu)
Trial IDNCT06546124 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of two dry needling techniques—superficial and deep—guided by ultrasound in treating myofascial pain syndrome of the upper trapezius muscle. Participants will be assessed for pain, disability, functional impairment, and quality of life following treatment. The use of ultrasound is intended to enhance the precision of needle placement, potentially improving treatment outcomes. The study will include patients aged 20 to 50 who have not received any cervical treatments in the past three months.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 20 to 50 diagnosed with myofascial pain syndrome in the upper trapezius muscle.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of neck and shoulder trauma or other conditions affecting neck and shoulder pain may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a more effective treatment option for patients suffering from myofascial pain syndrome.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with dry needling techniques, but this specific comparison using ultrasound guidance is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Diagnosis of MPS in the upper trapezius muscle in accordance with criteria defined by Travell and Simons
2. Ages between 20 and 50 years
3. No treatment, including injections, dry needling, and physical methods, applied to the cervical region in the last three months

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Bleeding Tendency
2. History of Neck and Shoulder Trauma
3. Other Conditions Affecting Neck and Shoulder Pain: including malignancy, infection, rheumatic diseases, degenerative joint disease, fibromyalgia, cervical radiculopathy, neuropathy, myelopathy, myopathy, adhesive capsulitis, etc.
4. Cases Where Evaluation Could Not Be Completed for Any Reason
5. Patients Who Refuse to Complete the Evaluations

Where this trial is running

Bolu

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Myofascial Pain Syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.