Comparing Theragun and Dry Needling for Neck Pain in Weightlifters

Comparative Effects of Theragun and Dry Needling on Neck Pain, Range of Motion and Disability Among Heavy Weightlifters

Not applicable Interventional Riphah International University · NCT06240975

This study is testing whether Theragun or dry needling is better at relieving neck pain and improving movement in male weightlifters aged 20 to 35.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment28 (estimated)
Ages20 Years to 35 Years
SexMale
SponsorRiphah International University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Lahore, Punjab)
Trial IDNCT06240975 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to compare the effects of Theragun and dry needling techniques on neck pain, range of motion, and disability among male weightlifters aged 20 to 35. It is a randomized, single-blinded trial where participants will be divided into two groups: one receiving Theragun treatment and the other undergoing dry needling. Assessments will be conducted using the Neck Disability Index, Universal Goniometer, and Numeric Pain Rating Scale at baseline and after six weeks of treatment. The study is approved by the ethical committee of Riphah International University in Lahore, Pakistan.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are male weightlifting athletes aged 20 to 35 who have been lifting weights for 1 to 2 years and have a positive Cervical Flexion-Rotation Test.

Not a fit: Patients with cerebrovascular diseases, migraines, cervicogenic headaches, or other significant cervical conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide effective treatment options for neck pain in weightlifters, improving their range of motion and reducing disability.

How similar studies have performed: While there is existing research on both Theragun and dry needling, this specific comparative approach in the context of weightlifting is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* •Male athlete,

  * 20 -35 years of age,
  * Weight lifting from 1 -2 years,
  * Cervical Flexion-Rotation Test positive

Exclusion Criteria:

* • Cerebrovascular diseases,

  * Migraine,
  * Cervicogenic Headache,
  * Musculoskeletal, cervical spondylosis, cervical spondylolisthesis,
  * Cervical post-operative,
  * Traumatic events in the past three months,
  * Presence of a physical or mental illness

Where this trial is running

Lahore, Punjab

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 Dry NeedlingNeck PainRange of MotionWeight LiftingTheragunDisabilityHeavy weightlifters
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.