Comparing Deep and Superficial Dry Needling for Neck Pain: An Ultrasound and EMG Study

Enrolling by invitation · Not applicable

Conditions studied: Neck Pain, Neck Pain Musculoskeletal

In brief

The purpose of this clinical trial is to compare the effects of deep versus superficial dry needling (DN) on the ultrasound and electromyographic (EMG) characteristics of myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) in the upper trapezius muscle of patients with neck pain. Researchers aim to determine which dry needling technique produces greater improvements in muscle properties (ultrasound and EMG findings), pain intensity, and functional disability. Intervention: Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either deep DN or superficial DN. Each participant will undergo four treatment sessions over a two-week period. Assessments: Outcomes will be measured at three time points: * Baseline (before treatment) * Post-treatment (end of week 2) * Follow-up (4 weeks after treatment)

Key facts

Study ID

NCT07637552

Run by

Qatif Central Hospital

People needed

44

Starts

2025-10-01

Expected to finish

2026-10-01

Last updated by the study team

2026-06-09

Who can join

Age: 18 and older, up to 65. Sex: any. Healthy volunteers: not accepted.

You may qualify if…

• Patients with neck pain
• Has least one active myofascial trigger point in the upper trapezius muscle

You may not qualify if…

• whiplash injury
• Prior cervical surgery
• Cervical radiculopathy
• Fibromyalgia
• Using analgesic treatment (e.g., physiotherapy or medication) within the week preceding participation
• Psychiatric disorders
• Any contraindication to dry needling (e.g., needle phobia and/or anticoagulant use).

Where it is running

• Qatif Central Hospital — Dammam, Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia

Full record on ClinicalTrials.gov

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