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Comparing Deep and Superficial Dry Needling for Neck Pain: An Ultrasound and EMG Study
Sponsor: Qatif Central Hospital
Summary
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 Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - 65 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
44
Start Date
2025-10-01
Completion Date
2026-10-01
Last Updated
2026-06-09
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Deep Dry Needling and Superficial Dry Needling
* Deep Dry needling is performed by a trained physiotherapist using a sterile solid filiform needle inserted deeply into the muscle tissue to directly reach the myofascial trigger point (MTrP) within the upper trapezius. The needle is advanced until a local twitch response is elicited, aiming to disrupt dysfunctional motor endplate activity, improve local circulation, and reduce pain and muscle tension. Participants will receive four treatment sessions over two weeks. * Superficial dry needling is performed by a trained physiotherapist using a sterile solid filiform needle inserted superficially into the skin overlying the identified MTrP in the upper trapezius, without penetrating the muscle or eliciting a local twitch response. The technique aims to modulate pain through stimulation of cutaneous Aδ fibers and spinal inhibitory pathways. Participants will receive four treatment sessions over two weeks.
Locations (1)
Qatif Central Hospital
Dammam, Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia