Using trigger point injections to relieve neck pain after cervical surgery
Comparison of Trigger Point Injections Versus Traditional Therapies in the Management of Postsurgical Pain in Patients Who Had Anterior Cervical Surgery
This study tests if trigger point injections can help relieve neck pain for people recovering from cervical surgery.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 4 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | George Washington University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Washington D.C., District of Columbia) |
| Trial ID | NCT04640896 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effectiveness of trigger point injections in alleviating myofascial pain that often occurs postoperatively in patients undergoing anterior cervical surgery. Patients will receive injections of either bupivacaine or normal saline into tender muscle areas in the neck and upper back to assess pain relief. The goal is to determine if this intervention can improve recovery and reduce discomfort associated with surgical positioning. The study focuses on patients who have undergone elective anterior cervical procedures, such as Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients scheduled for elective anterior cervical surgery who experience myofascial pain.
Not a fit: Patients undergoing emergency surgery or those with a local anesthetic allergy may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce postoperative neck pain and improve recovery for patients undergoing cervical surgery.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated that trigger point injections can be effective for myofascial pain, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Elective anterior cervical surgery Exclusion Criteria: * Emergency surgery * Local anesthetic allergy * Long term opioid usage (not including tramadol and codeine) * Intra-operative complication (e.g. unstable cervical spine)
Where this trial is running
Washington D.C., District of Columbia
- George Washington University Hospital — Washington D.C., District of Columbia, United States (Recruiting)
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.