Clinical Research Directory

Inclusion Criteria: * Male or female participants aged 18-59 years with complaints of pain in the posterior neck and shoulder regions. * Myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) identified on palpation of the upper trapezius muscle. * Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) score of 4-6 and Pressure Pain Threshold (PPT) ≤ 3 kg * Willingness to participate in the study until completion and to sign the informed consent form. Exclusion Criteria: * A previous diagnosis of cervical herniated nucleus pulposus (HNP). * History of thread-embedding acupuncture therapy in the upper trapezius muscle within the past 6 months. * History of dry needling (DN) and/or acupuncture therapy in the upper trapezius muscle within the past 1 week. * History of taking analgesic and anti-inflammatory medications within the past 24 hours. * Presence of a tumor, wound, or skin infection at the needling site. * History of hypersensitivity reactions to previous acupuncture therapy (metal allergy, severe atopy, keloids, or other skin hypersensitivity). * Presence of a blood disorder or use of anticoagulant medications (heparin and warfarin). * Pregnant women.