Effect of dry needling on scar tissue

The Effectiveness of Dry Needling in Treating Linear Hypertrophic Scar Tissue: a Randomized Sham-controlled Trial

NA · Iran University of Medical Sciences · NCT06033430

This study is testing whether dry needling can help improve the flexibility and comfort of thick scar tissue for people dealing with this issue.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment80 (estimated)
Ages20 Years to 60 Years
SexAll
SponsorIran University of Medical Sciences (other)
Locations2 sites (Bethesda, Maryland and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06033430 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effectiveness of dry needling as a treatment for hypertrophic scar tissue. It is a two-centered, randomized, single-blind, sham-controlled trial involving eighty participants who will be assigned to either a true dry needling group or a sham treatment group. The primary focus is on measuring the compliance of scar tissue, while secondary outcomes include assessing range of motion, pain levels, and functional disability. Participants will undergo a thorough intake process to gather demographic and scar-related information before treatment.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 20 to 60 with linear hypertrophic scar tissue that is at least six weeks old and does not restrict joint mobility.

Not a fit: Patients with needle phobia, immature or keloid scars, skin infections, diabetes, or those on anticoagulant medications may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly improve the flexibility and functionality of scar tissue, enhancing patients' quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: While the effectiveness of dry needling for scar tissue is debated, similar studies have shown promising results in improving myofascial tightness.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Linear hypertrophic scar tissue with an age of more than six weeks
* No restrictions on active and passive joint range of motion near the scar tissue
* Age between 20 and 60 years

Exclusion Criteria:

* Needle phobia
* Immature scar or keloid scar
* Skin diseases or infections near the scar tissue
* Diabetes
* Fractures that have altered joint mobility
* Anticoagulant medication use

Where this trial is running

Bethesda, Maryland and 1 other locations

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Scar Tissue, Hypertrophic Scar, Hypertrophic Scar of Upper Arm, Hypertrophic Surgical Scar, Dry Needling, Hypertrophic scar, Dry needling, Randomized sham-controlled trial

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.