Graston Technique speed and trapezius muscle stiffness in people with bruxism
A Study on the Effects of Different Application Speeds of the Graston Technique on Trapezius Muscle Stiffness, Pressure Pain Threshold, Pain Intensity, and Muscle Oxygenation in Individuals With Bruxism
This trial will test whether using the Graston Technique at a slower (60 BPM) or faster (120 BPM) speed changes trapezius muscle stiffness, muscle oxygenation, pressure pain threshold, and pain in adults with bruxism.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 34 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 55 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Gazi University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Ankara) |
| Trial ID | NCT07506733 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This randomized, crossover trial will enroll 36 adults with bruxism and trigger points in the dominant upper trapezius. Each participant receives two Graston Technique sessions—one at 60 BPM and one at 120 BPM—in randomized order with a one-week washout between sessions. Outcomes measured before and after each session include objective trapezius stiffness, muscle oxygenation, pressure pain threshold, and self-reported pain intensity. The within-subject design and block randomization are intended to isolate the acute physiological effects of application speed on soft-tissue and hemodynamic responses.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults aged 18–55 diagnosed with bruxism who have trigger points in the trapezius and no contraindicating skin lesions, recent TMJ botox, severe muscle injuries, or disqualifying psychological disorders are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People with acute muscle tears, open wounds or infections at the treatment site, recent TMJ botox injections, severe psychological disorders, or those outside the 18–55 age range may not be eligible or likely to benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the study could identify a Graston application speed that more effectively reduces trapezius stiffness and pain in people with bruxism, helping clinicians use a more evidence-based manual therapy approach.
How similar studies have performed: Although IASTM and the Graston Technique are widely used and small studies suggest benefit for soft-tissue mobility and pain, the specific impact of application speed is largely untested and this trial addresses that gap.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosed with bruxism. * Aged 18-55 years. * Presence of trigger points in the trapezius muscle, according to the criteria defined by Travell and Simons. Exclusion Criteria: * Acute tears, tendon ruptures, or severe muscle injuries. * Conditions that prevent the application of the Graston Technique (e.g., skin lesions, open wounds, infections). * Having received botox injections in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) region within the last 6 months. * Psychological disorders that may affect participation or measurements.
Where this trial is running
Ankara
- Gazi University — Ankara, Turkey (Türkiye) (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Fadime Gülcan, physiotherapist
- Email: fztfadimegulcan@gmail.com
- Phone: +905412432039
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.