How two hand-held massage methods compare for trapezius 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 randomized controlled trial will enroll 42 adults aged 18–45 with trapezius myalgia and assign them to either IASTM or DTFM, both in addition to conventional physiotherapy (TENS, heat, ROM and stretching) over four weeks (16 sessions total). Outcomes will include pain intensity, cervical range of motion, muscle strength, and functional disability to compare the two interventions. The study will be conducted at Ibadat International University Islamabad, with participants randomly allocated to one of the two manual therapies. The goal is to determine which technique yields greater improvements in pain, mobility, and function.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Male and female participants aged 18-45 years. Clinical diagnosis of trapezius myalgia with neck pain lasting more than two weeks.

Tenderness over the upper trapezius muscle. NPRS pain score greater than 4. Cervical flexion less than 60° and extension less than 50°. Able to understand the study procedures and provide written informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Congenital or structural musculoskeletal deformities (e.g., torticollis, scoliosis, cervical rib).

Open wounds, skin infections, or dermatological conditions over the treatment area.

Cervical spine or upper limb surgery within the previous 12 months. Cervical radiculopathy, cervical spondylosis, herniated disc, or whiplash injury.

Where it's running

• Ibadat International University, Islamabad (Iiui)
  Islamabad, Pakistan Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Hafsah Arshad, PhD*
• Email: hafsaharshad12@gmail.com
• Phone: 03315165234

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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.