NCT07062692

Effectiveness of Dry Needling Versus Manual Trigger Point Release on Active Rhomboid Trigger Points

• Status: Completed
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 48 (actual)
• Sponsor: Riphah International University · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 20 Years – 60 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

This study compares dry needling and manual trigger point release for treating active rhomboid trigger points in 48 patients, assessing pain, ROM, and function. It addresses a gap in evidence for optimal pain management in upper back myofascial pain. Findings will guide clinical practice for more effective, evidence-based interventions.

Detailed description

This randomized controlled trial (RCT) investigates the effectiveness of dry needling versus manual trigger point release in treating active rhomboid trigger points. The study aims to compare the effect of two interventions on pain, range of motion (ROM), and functional outcomes in patients with rhomboid muscle pain. Participants: 48 individuals (aged 20-60) with clinically confirmed active rhomboid trigger points. Interventions: Group 1: Dry needling therapy. Group 2: Manual trigger point release. Both groups receive adjunct therapies (ultrasound, cold packs, and home exercises). Outcome Measures: Pain (Numeric Pain Rating Scale), ROM (goniometer), and function (DASH Questionnaire). Duration: 2-week intervention with follow-ups at 1 and 2 weeks. Significance: The study addresses a gap in evidence for rhomboid trigger point treatments, guiding clinical decisions for pain management. Results may optimize therapeutic approaches for upper back pain.

Conditions

• Trigger Point Pain, Myofascial

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
OTHER	dry needling trigger release therapy	The dry needling intervention involved inserting sterile filiform needles directly into active rhomboid trigger points for 1-2 sessions (1 session/week) to elicit local twitch responses and relieve tension.
OTHER	MANUAL TRIGGER POINT RELEASE	The manual trigger point release intervention involved applying sustained pressure to active rhomboid trigger points followed by passive stretching to release muscle tension and improve mobility.

Timeline

• Start date: 2025-04-23
• Primary completion: 2025-07-28
• Completion: 2025-12-31
• First posted: 2025-07-14
• Last updated: 2026-04-08

Locations

1 site across 1 country: Pakistan