Trigger Point Injections for Myofascial Pain
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine how the number of needle passes in trigger point injections affects pain relief and patient satisfaction for individuals with myofascial pain, a condition causing chronic muscle pain. Participants will join one of three groups, receiving either 2, 10, or 20 needle passes in their muscle trigger points. The trial seeks to identify which method provides the best pain relief and improves daily function. Individuals with myofascial pain who have not found relief with other treatments and can communicate in English may be suitable for this study. As a Phase 2 trial, this research focuses on assessing the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of participants.
Do I need to stop my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that trigger point injections are generally safe for treating muscle pain. Most patients tolerate this procedure well. The injections typically contain a local anesthetic, which numbs the area and reduces discomfort during the procedure.
If side effects occur, they are usually mild, such as temporary soreness or bruising at the injection site. Serious side effects are rare. Some studies note that results can vary, but overall, trigger point injections are considered a safe option for managing pain related to muscle knots.
These injections are already used in medical practice and have a history of safety for many people. However, new studies, including the one under consideration, aim to improve the technique to enhance pain relief and patient satisfaction.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the different needle pass techniques for treating myofascial pain because they offer a potentially more precise way to address trigger points. Unlike standard treatments like physical therapy or medications, this approach directly targets the source of pain with varying intensities. The trial explores the impact of different numbers of needle passes—ranging from one to two, ten, and up to twenty—on pain relief, which could lead to personalized treatment plans. This level of customization could improve efficacy and reduce side effects compared to more generalized treatments.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for myofascial pain?
Research has shown that trigger point injections can greatly reduce pain and improve movement in individuals with myofascial pain. Studies have found these injections offer better pain relief than standard medical treatments. They are also cost-effective and less invasive, making them a popular choice. This trial will compare different techniques, specifically the number of needle passes, to determine the most effective approach. Participants will receive either one to two needle passes, ten needle passes, or twenty needle passes at each trigger point. Although experts do not fully agree on the optimal number of needle passes, early use of these injections has yielded good results with various techniques. Overall, trigger point injections are considered an effective treatment for myofascial pain.15678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Mohab Ibrahim, Md., Ph.D
Principal Investigator
University of Arizona
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for English-speaking individuals with myofascial pain who haven't found relief through conservative treatments or can't do physical therapy. It's not suitable for those with serious mental illnesses that affect pain perception or conditions causing widespread pain.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive trigger point injections with varying needle passes (2, 10, or 20) based on randomization
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in pain intensity, sleep patterns, and functional abilities over 60 days
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Trigger Point Injection
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Arizona
Lead Sponsor