Clinical Research Directory

Imaging Metabolic and Perfusion Changes in Acupuncture Therapy for Myofascial Pain Syndrome

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.

High-Intensity Laser Therapy for Trapezius Myofascial Pain (HILT-TRAP Study)

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of optimized High-Intensity Laser Therapy (HILT) compared with sham treatment in patients with trapezius myofascial pain syndrome. Outcomes include pain intensity, cervical range of motion, functional disability, and depressive symptoms measured at baseline, post-intervention, and 16-week follow-up.

Dual Frequency Low-Level Laser Therapy in Myofascial Trigger Points of Upper Trapezius

The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if dual frequency low-level laser therapy (DF-LLLT) works to reduce pain and improve neck function in adults with myofascial trigger points in the upper trapezius muscle. It will also determine whether DF-LLLT improves cervical range of motion. The main questions it aims to answer are: i)Does DF-LLLT reduce pain intensity on the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) more than sham laser therapy? ii)Does DF-LLLT improve functional status (Neck Disability Index) and cervical range of motion more than sham laser therapy? Researchers will compare DF-LLLT plus conventional therapy to sham laser plus conventional therapy to see if DF-LLLT has greater therapeutic effects. Participants will: 1. Receive either DF-LLLT or sham laser therapy twice weekly for 4 weeks 2. Perform a standardized stretching and strengthening exercise program for the neck and shoulders. 3. Attend clinic visits at baseline, week 2, and week 4 for assessments of pain, function, and cervical mobility.

EMG-Based Evaluation of Occlusal Splint and Masseter Botox Effects on Head and Neck Muscles

This randomized controlled clinical trial aims to evaluate the individual and combined effects of occlusal splint therapy and botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) injections into the masseter muscle on the activity of head and neck muscles in patients diagnosed with myofascial pain syndrome (MPS). MPS is a common subtype of temporomandibular disorders (TMD), frequently involving the masticatory and cervical muscles. Despite various treatment modalities, there is still no universally accepted protocol. In this study, 56 adult participants of both sexes, without missing teeth and within a normal body mass index (BMI) range, will be randomly assigned to four groups: BTX-A injection only, occlusal splint only, combined BTX-A and splint therapy, and an untreated control group. Surface electromyography (EMG) will be used to assess muscle activity in the masseter, temporalis, sternocleidomastoid, splenius capitis, and trapezius muscles. EMG recordings will be performed at baseline, 4 weeks, and 12 weeks after the intervention. Pain levels and symptom severity will be assessed using the DC/TMD symptom questionnaire and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). BTX-A injections will be administered by a neurology specialist (20 IU per masseter muscle), and occlusal splints will be custom-fabricated and fitted for each participant. This study seeks to determine the neuromuscular effects of these treatments-both alone and in combination-on masticatory and cervical muscles and to provide insight into the development of more comprehensive and effective treatment strategies for MPS.