Comparing hot and cold therapy for neck pain relief
Comparison of the Short-term Effect of Superficial Thermotherapy Applications in Acute Nonspecific Neck Pain-Randomised Controlled Trial
This study is testing whether using hot or cold packs can help people with recent neck pain feel better and move more easily.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Acibadem University Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Istanbul and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06507761 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of superficial thermotherapy, specifically hot and cold applications, in alleviating acute nonspecific neck pain. Participants diagnosed with nonspecific neck pain lasting less than one month will be randomly assigned to receive either a hot pack, cold pack, or a sham treatment. The study will measure outcomes such as pain relief, range of motion, and functional status to determine which method is more effective. The goal is to provide evidence for or against the common clinical practice of using thermotherapy for neck pain.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-65 with a diagnosis of nonspecific neck pain lasting less than one month.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of neck or shoulder surgery, systemic diseases, or severe psychological illnesses may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide evidence-based recommendations for treating acute nonspecific neck pain, potentially improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: While thermotherapy is commonly used in practice, there is limited evidence from previous studies specifically comparing hot and cold applications for neck pain, making this approach somewhat novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Being diagnosed with nonspecific neck pain by a doctor, * To be between the ages of 18-65, * Neck pain lasting for less than 1 month * No previous neck or shoulder surgery, * No shoulder pain due to any cause, * A tumour or inflammatory disease underlying the neck pain not to be found, * A clinically underlying stenosis or discogenic problem not to be present. * Negative results from the following clinical examination tests; Spurling test, Lhermitte test, Cervical distraction test, Adson test, Exclusion Criteria: * Not meeting the inclusion criteria, * Positive neurological examination (positive motor presence, reflex or sensory abnormalities indicating spinal root compression) or abnormal neurological findings related to nerve compression in the upper limb * Systemic rheumatological or metabolic diseases or cancer * Refusal to participate in the study, * Failure to complete treatment, * Having any neurological problem * Severe psychological illnesses
Where this trial is running
Istanbul and 1 other locations
- Nuray ALACA — Istanbul, Turkey (Türkiye) (Recruiting)
- Acibadem University — Istanbul, Turkey (Türkiye) (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Nuray ALACA
- Email: nuray.alaca@acibadem.edu.tr
- Phone: 05324251290
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.