Comparing Multiple Versus Sustained Insertion Dry Needling Therapy for Myofascial Neck Pain: A Randomized Controlled...

Area of Science:

• Physical Therapy
• Musculoskeletal Disorders
• Pain Management

Background:

• Myofascial neck pain is a common condition characterized by muscle tension and stiffness.
• Dry needling is a therapeutic intervention used to treat myofascial trigger points.
• Different dry needling techniques may yield varying clinical outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of the Hong (GH) and sustained insertion (GS) dry needling methods.
• To evaluate the effects of these methods on muscle tension, stiffness, pain threshold, and functional strength in patients with myofascial neck pain.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 30 participants with myofascial neck pain.
• Participants were assigned to either the GH or GS dry needling group.
• Outcome measures included muscle tension, muscle stiffness, pressure pain threshold, maximum isometric strength, and transcutaneous perfusion, assessed at multiple time points post-intervention.

Main Results:

• The GH method resulted in significantly higher muscle tension and stiffness post-intervention.
• The GS method demonstrated superior improvements in pressure pain threshold and maximum isometric strength.
• Both methods showed differences in transcutaneous perfusion and Power Doppler Score at various time points.

Conclusions:

• The sustained insertion (GS) dry needling technique appears more effective for myofascial neck pain management compared to the Hong (GH) method.
• GS dry needling is associated with better pain relief and functional recovery.
• GH dry needling may lead to increased muscle tension and stiffness.