Core stability vs scapular stabilization for hand grip in chronic myofascial neck pain

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This interventional study compares two exercise approaches—core stability and scapular stabilization—against traditional physical therapy to see which best improves hand grip and pinch grip strength, neck pain, and function in adults with chronic myofascial neck pain. Participants are 25–45 years old with long-standing upper trapezius trigger points and no recent physiotherapy or steroid injections. The study explores how stabilizing the trunk and shoulder girdle may influence upper limb performance through the kinetic chain. Outcomes include hand grip strength, pinch grip strength, neck pain intensity, and related symptoms. Lead sponsor is Cairo University, with sites at Cairo University in Giza, Egypt.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Patients diagnosed with chronic myofascial neck pain depending on referral, and physical examination.
2. Sixty patients diagnosed with chronic myofascial neck pain for more than six months.
3. Patients age range will 25-45 years
4. Patients body mass index (BMI) will be 18.5-24.9 kg/m2
5. Each patient suffering from all active MTrPs in the upper trapezius muscle with painful/ tender nodule.
6. Patients have a constant neck pain with positive jump sign when palpating the upper trapezius muscle.
7. Patients have referred pain, and symptoms of ipsilateral hand muscle weakness.
8. No history of undergoing physiotherapy modalities or corticosteroid injection therapies in the past six months before the study

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Presence of signs of severe pathology such as malignancies, mainly of the cervical region.
2. Fracture of the cervical spine.
3. Cervical radiculopathy or myelopathy.
4. Diabetes mellitus.
5. Trauma, cognitive anomalies, and surgery around neck, shoulders, or hand.
6. Fibromyalgia or vascular syndromes such as vertebral basilar insufficiency.
7. Pregnancy.
8. Having undergone physical therapy within the past three months before the study.
9. Having corticosteroid injection therapies in the past 3 months before the study.

Where it's running

• Cairo University
  Giza, Giza Governorate, Egypt Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Adnan AA Gharib, PHD
• Email: dradnanpts@gmail.com
• Phone: +201065798861

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.