Dry Needling for Mechanical Neck Pain

About this trial

Last updated 4 months ago

Study ID

Dry Needling

Status

Completed

Type

Interventional

Phase

N/A

Placebo

Accepting

25 to 65 Years

All Sexes

Trial Timing

Ended 5 months ago

What is this trial about?

Mechanical neck pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders among adults. It is characterized by pain and stiffness in the cervical region, often related to poor posture, repetitive movements, or prolonged sitting. The condition can lead to functional limitations and decreased quality of life. This randomized controlled clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of dry needling therapy on pain intensity, cervical range of motion, and functional ability in patients with mechanical neck pain. Forty participants aged 25 - 65 years will be randomly assigned to two groups. Group A will receive dry needling combined with neck exercises, while Group B will receive transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), ultrasound, and the same neck exercise program. Both groups will undergo treatment three times per week for four weeks. Primary outcomes include changes in the Neck Disability Index (NDI), pressure pain threshold (PPT) measured by algometer, and cervical range of motion (CROM). The study will determine whether dry needling provides superior clinical improvement compared with conventional electrotherapy and exercise.

What are the participation requirements?

Inclusion Criteria

* Medically stable individuals who provide written informed consent to participate in the study.

* Age between 25 and 65 years.

* Both male and female participants.

* Patients diagnosed with mechanical neck pain lasting more than three months.

* Presence of myofascial trigger points in the upper trapezius or cervical muscles confirmed by palpation.

* Ability to follow treatment instructions and attend all scheduled sessions.

Exclusion Criteria

* History of neck surgery or cervical spine fracture.

* Previous dry needling or invasive therapy for neck pain in the past six months.

* History of neurological disorders (e.g., cervical radiculopathy, myelopathy).

* Current acute infection, skin disease, or open wound in the neck or shoulder region.

* Use of anticoagulant medication or any bleeding disorder.

* Pregnancy or suspected pregnancy.

* Any systemic illness (e.g., diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis) that may affect healing or pain perception.