Acupuncture for Muscle Knots
(IMPACT-MPS Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This study will evaluate the clinical and biological effects of acupuncture for chronic low back pain associated with myofascial pain syndrome (MPS).
In this randomized, participant- and assessor-blinded clinical trial, 64 adults with chronic low back pain due to MPS will be assigned to receive either true acupuncture or sham acupuncture for eight weeks. Participants will undergo total-body positron emission tomography/computed tomography (TB-PET/CT) imaging and complete standardized pain and functional questionnaires at baseline and after treatment.
The study will evaluate whether acupuncture improves pain and function compared with sham treatment and whether TB-PET/CT imaging can detect changes in myofascial tissue metabolism and perfusion that correspond with clinical outcomes.
Who Is on the Research Team?
Abhijit J Chaudhari, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of California, Davis
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either true acupuncture or sham acupuncture for eight weeks, with up to three sessions per week
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, including optional imaging and assessment at week 4
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Acupuncture
- Sham Acupuncture
How Is the Trial Designed?
2
Treatment groups
Active Control
Placebo Group
Participants randomized to the experimental arm will receive standardized acupuncture treatment up to three sessions per week for eight weeks (maximum of 24 sessions) administered by a licensed acupuncturist.
Participants randomized to the control arm will receive sham acupuncture using non-penetrating needles designed to mimic acupuncture procedures without therapeutic needle penetration.
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of California, Davis
Lead Sponsor
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH)
Collaborator
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Collaborator
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