Comparing dry needling with stretching techniques for neck pain relief
Comparing the Efficacy of Dry Needling Combined with Passive Stretching and Muscle Energy Technique on Upper Trapezius Myofascial Trigger Points Associated with Neck Pain
This study is testing whether dry needling combined with stretching techniques can help people with neck pain feel better after suffering for more than three months.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 46 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 60 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Peradeniya Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Kandy, Central Province) |
| Trial ID | NCT06780904 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of dry needling combined with either passive stretching or muscle energy technique in treating patients suffering from neck pain for over three months. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups, and their pain levels, neck range of motion, and disability will be assessed before and after the interventions. The study will involve 46 participants who will receive treatments twice a week for two weeks, with outcomes measured using standardized scales. Data analysis will be conducted using SPSS to determine the efficacy of each treatment approach.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 60 with neck pain lasting at least three months and the presence of myofascial trigger points.
Not a fit: Patients with specific exclusions such as shoulder pathology, recent surgeries, or significant cognitive impairment may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a more effective treatment option for patients with chronic neck pain.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with dry needling and stretching techniques for myofascial pain, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Presence of neck pain for at least 3 months or more * Presence of trigger points in the upper trapezius muscle, either unilaterally or bilaterally * Age between 18 and 60 years Exclusion Criteria: * Having an ongoing infection or fever * Presence of shoulder pathology, such as tendinopathy, impingement syndrome, capsulitis, or bursitis * History of direct trauma to the shoulder or neck * Immunosuppressed individuals (e.g., those with cancer) * Pregnant or recently delivered * Diagnosis of fibromyalgia * History of previous neck or shoulder surgery * Previous local steroid injection or acupuncture * Any abnormality that restricts cervical range of motion (e.g., degenerative changes, cervical spine spondylolisthesis, disc protrusion, extrusion, or sequestration observed in MRI) * Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus * Needle phobia * Metal allergies * Cervical instability * Presence of local skin lesions or infections * Significant cognitive impairment or uncooperative behavior * Participants who have previously undergone any form of physiotherapy intervention for the treatment of neck pain or related conditions
Where this trial is running
Kandy, Central Province
- National Hospital Kandy — Kandy, Central Province, Sri Lanka (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Dissanayake
- Email: dilmini008.dd@gmail.com
- Phone: 0702797349
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.