Self-myofascial release for upper cervical muscles
Exploring the Effect of Self-Myofascial Release of the Upper Cervical Muscles on the Superficial Back Fascial Train
This study is testing if using a special pillow for self-massage on the neck can help improve movement and reduce pain in the back and feet.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 19 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Edward Via Virginia College of Osteopathic Medicine Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Auburn, Alabama) |
| Trial ID | NCT06529991 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study examines how the suboccipital muscles affect the superficial back line, which is a network of myofascial segments extending from the foot to the head. Participants will undergo a 5-minute self-myofascial release intervention using an occipivot suboccipital pillow. The study will measure changes in biomechanical properties, pain pressure thresholds, ankle range of motion, and foot plantar pressure. The goal is to better understand the interconnectedness of the superficial back line and how dysfunction in one area can impact other regions.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 19 and older from the Auburn area without significant pain or functional limitations.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions that alter gait, such as inflammatory arthritis, fibromyalgia, or recent lower extremity injuries, may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment strategies for musculoskeletal pain by enhancing understanding of myofascial connections.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach may be novel, similar studies have indicated the importance of myofascial release in treating musculoskeletal pain.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: • Adults 19 years of age and older from VCOM-Auburn and the Auburn area. Exclusion Criteria: * pain that alters gait and/or limits/alters normal daily function * currently undergoing treatment by a healthcare provider * loss of function * use of prescription drugs for muscle or muscle relaxants * Pregnancy (hormonal changes affecting tissues could be a confounding variable) * inflammatory arthritis and fibromyalgia * diabetes or prediabetes * lumbar radiculopathy or disc pathology * previous surgery of the spine or lower extremity * injury to the lower extremity within the past 6 months * neurological or musculoskeletal diseases * cancer or blood disorder * current tobacco use * other conditions that alter gait
Where this trial is running
Auburn, Alabama
- Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Auburn — Auburn, Alabama, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Daniel Cawley, DC, MSHS, MS
- Email: dcawley@auburn.vcom.edu
- Phone: 334-442-4105
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.