Evaluating the effects of different massage techniques on neck pain relief
Characterizing Responses to Massage in Individuals With Neck Pain
This study is testing whether different types of massage or cold water can help people with neck pain feel better and if their sensitivity to pain affects how much relief they get.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 53 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 60 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Florida Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Gainesville, Florida) |
| Trial ID | NCT06224829 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates whether baseline pain sensitivity can predict pain relief from different types of massage in individuals with neck pain. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either a pain-inducing massage, a pain-free massage, or to immerse their hand in a cold water bath. The study aims to compare the effectiveness of these interventions in alleviating neck pain symptoms. By analyzing the outcomes, researchers hope to understand the relationship between pain sensitivity and pain relief.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 60 who have been experiencing neck pain for at least three months and rate their pain intensity as 4/10 or higher.
Not a fit: Patients with systemic medical conditions affecting sensation, recent neck surgery, or other chronic pain conditions may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into effective pain management strategies for individuals suffering from chronic neck pain.
How similar studies have performed: While there is existing research on massage therapy for pain relief, this specific approach of comparing pain-inducing and pain-free massages is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18 to 60 years old * Currently experiencing neck pain with or without arm pain * Neck pain symptom intensity rated as 4/10 or higher during the last 24 hours * Neck pain for greater than or equal to 3 months Exclusion Criteria: * Non- English speaking * Systemic medical conditions known to affect sensation (e.g. diabetes) * History of neck surgery or fracture within the past 6 months * Current history of chronic pain condition other than neck pain * Diagnosis of cervical radiculopathy or cervical myelopathy * History of whiplash * Currently using blood thinning medication * Any blood clotting disorder such as hemophilia * Any contraindication to application of ice, such as: uncontrolled hypertension, cold urticaria, cryoglobulinemia, paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria, and circulatory compromise * Pregnancy
Where this trial is running
Gainesville, Florida
- University of Florida — Gainesville, Florida, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Joel Bialosky, PT, PhD
- Email: bialosky@phhp.ufl.edu
- Phone: 352-733-1162
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.