Dry Needling for Trapezius Muscle Spasm
(ENCOMPASS-2 Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests whether dry needling, which uses thin needles to target specific muscle spots, can reduce pain for individuals with Myofascial Pain Syndrome. It compares the effectiveness of real dry needling to a placebo treatment (sham treatment) that does not penetrate the muscle. The study seeks participants who have experienced trigger points (painful, tight muscle spots) in their upper trapezius muscle (the muscle over the back of the neck and shoulders) and can manage their pain with acetaminophen. Participants will visit the clinic twice and complete daily pain surveys. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to explore a new pain management technique.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
You can continue taking your current medications if they are stable doses of pain medications. However, you must not have used opioids in the past 3 months, and you need to be on a stable dose for at least two weeks before the study for certain drugs like SSRIs, SNRIs, and others listed in the trial details.
What prior data suggests that dry needling is safe for treating trapezius muscle spasm?
Research has shown that dry needling is generally safe for treating muscle pain. In a large study, only 0.1% of treatments resulted in serious problems. Most issues were minor, such as bruising or slight bleeding, occurring in about 36.7% of treatments. Another study found that 20% of treatments caused mild issues, mainly bruising, bleeding, or extra pain.
Overall, dry needling appears to be a safe option. It has been used successfully for neck pain and may help with muscle spasms. While some people experience minor side effects, serious issues remain rare.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Dry Needling is unique because it directly targets muscle trigger points to relieve trapezius muscle spasms, unlike standard treatments like physical therapy, medications, or massages that aim to alleviate symptoms more generally. This technique involves inserting thin, sterile needles into specific muscle knots, which can help release tension and improve blood flow. Researchers are excited about this treatment because it offers a hands-on approach that could potentially provide faster and more effective relief for patients suffering from muscle spasms, without the need for medication.
What evidence suggests that dry needling is effective for Myofascial Pain Syndrome?
This trial will compare dry needling with a sham treatment for trapezius muscle spasm. Studies have shown that dry needling can reduce pain and increase pain tolerance in individuals with muscle pain. Research indicates that dry needling might be particularly beneficial for muscles like the trapezius, located in the neck and shoulders. One study found that adding dry needling to regular physical therapy improved movement and reduced disability in patients. Another study suggested that dry needling can lead to long-term improvements in pain and function. Overall, early findings suggest that dry needling may be a promising option for treating Myofascial Pain Syndrome with trigger points.36789
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals experiencing Myofascial Pain Syndrome with trigger points in the trapezius muscle. Participants must be able to visit the clinic twice and complete daily surveys about their pain intensity.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Pre-Screening
Participants are pre-screened to assess eligibility. The questionnaire can be completed on the phone, online in a survey, or in person. Medical records will also be reviewed.
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive dry needling treatment or sham procedure, along with baseline measurements including EIM, US, TT, and algometry.
Home Period
Participants re-apply the marker spot and complete a daily pain survey.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, including imaging and testing measures, questionnaires, and review of adverse events.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Dry Needling
- Sham Treatment
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Lead Sponsor
Massachusetts General Hospital
Collaborator
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH)
Collaborator