Evaluating Dry Needling and Low-Level Laser Microcurrent Electrical Stimulation for Inflammation and Pain in Acute Upper Trapezius Myofascial Pain Syndrome

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to evaluate the effectiveness of dry needling and Low-Level Laser Microcurrent Electrical Stimulation LL MCES in adults aged 20 to 45 years with acute upper trapezius myofascial pain syndrome MPS. The study focuses on understanding if these treatments reduce inflammation and oxidative stress by measuring changes in serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha TNF- and malondialdehyde MDA levels, alongside improvements in pain and neck-related disability. This trial addresses the gap in knowledge about how these biological changes relate to clinical benefits from non-drug therapies. Participants are randomly assigned to one of four groups dry needling alone, LL MCES alone, combined dry needling and LL MCES, or sham dry needling that mimics treatment without actual needle penetration. Treatments target the upper trapezius muscles trigger points using standardized protocols. Blood samples are collected before and after the intervention to assess serum TNF- and MDA levels. Clinical assessments of pain intensity and neck disability are also completed before and after treatment. During the study, participants attend scheduled follow-up visits for clinical evaluation and outcome measurement. Researchers use the Numerical Pain Rating Scale NPRS and Neck Disability Index NDI to gauge pain and function. Safety and adherence are monitored throughout. The primary outcomes include changes in serum MDA and TNF- concentrations measured at baseline and three days after treatment completion. The total participation period extends from treatment through follow-up assessments.

Dry Needling and Low-Level Laser Microcurrent Electrical Stimulation for Myofascial Pain Syndrome