Myofascial pain syndrome
MONDO:0006862Muscular pain in numerous body regions that can be reproduced by pressure on trigger points, localized hardenings in skeletal muscle tissue. Pain is referred to a location distant from the trigger points. A prime example is the temporomandibular joint dysfunction syndrome.
210 clinical trials for this condition and its sub-types.
Follow this condition — get notified about new trialsSub-types
Broader categories
-
Could your own bone marrow fix jaw pain? new trial tests it
Disease control Not yet recruitingThis phase 3 trial tests whether injecting a concentrate of your own bone marrow (BMAC) into the jaw joint during arthroscopy reduces pain and damage better than a standard steroid shot. Twenty adults with long-lasting TMJ pain will be randomly assigned to one of the two treatmen…
Phase: PHASE3 • Sponsor: Weill Medical College of Cornell University • Aim: Disease control
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 12:09 UTC
-
New fast fix system may improve jaw surgery outcomes for TMJ disorder patients
Disease control Not yet recruitingThis study tests whether a new Fast Fix suturing system works better than the usual method for repositioning the jaw joint disc in people with TMJ internal derangement. About 50 adults who need surgery after other treatments failed will be randomly assigned to one of the two tech…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Cairo University • Aim: Disease control
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 08:08 UTC
-
New pill aims to shield stomachs from common painkiller damage
Prevention Not yet recruitingThis study tests whether a new medicine called Fexuprazan (Fexuclue) can prevent stomach ulcers caused by NSAID painkillers like ibuprofen. About 360 adults with joint or muscle pain who need daily NSAIDs will take either Fexuprazan or an older drug (Lansoprazole) for 24 weeks. T…
Phase: PHASE4 • Sponsor: Daewoong Pharmaceutical Co. LTD. • Aim: Prevention
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 12:07 UTC
-
Shockwave therapy could ease stubborn neck pain
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis pilot study tests whether focused shockwave therapy can reduce pain and improve function in people with chronic neck and shoulder muscle pain. Sixty adults will be randomly assigned to receive either three weekly shockwave sessions or a home exercise program. Researchers wil…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Cishan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 14:02 UTC
-
Neck moves might ease jaw pain: new trial
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study tests whether a gentle neck mobilization technique can improve jaw movement and reduce pain in people with chronic jaw muscle pain (TMD myalgia). 48 adults with jaw pain will receive either the neck treatment or a placebo. Researchers will measure jaw motion, muscle ac…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 14:00 UTC
-
Breathing and massage combo tested for Nurses' aching necks
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study tests whether adding deep breathing exercises to a massage routine can quickly reduce neck pain and stiffness in operating room nurses after surgery. Thirty-eight nurses will receive either massage alone or massage plus breathing exercises in a single session. Research…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Istanbul Aydın University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 13:04 UTC
-
Light therapy could soothe your aching jaw
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study tests whether shining specific light wavelengths (635, 940, or 1064 nm) on the jaw muscles can reduce pain and improve jaw function in people with chronic jaw muscle disorder (TMD). About 45 adults with moderate-to-severe jaw pain lasting over 3 months will receive sev…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Alexandria University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 13:02 UTC
-
Neck pain relief may also ease tired eyes and stress, new study hopes to prove
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study tests two different manual therapy techniques—Active Release Technique and Myofascial Release—each paired with eye exercises, to see which better reduces eye strain, improves sleep quality, and lowers stress in people with neck pain. 44 adults aged 18-40 with neck pain…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Riphah International University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 13:00 UTC
-
Heat therapy may soothe jaw pain in TMD sufferers
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study tests whether applying local heat to the jaw can reduce pain and fatigue caused by teeth clenching in people with chronic temporomandibular disorder (TMD). Ten adults with TMD will receive heat therapy and report their pain levels daily for 8 days. Researchers will com…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of Minnesota • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 13:00 UTC
-
Jaw pain relief: does adding gel to surgery help?
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study looks at two treatments for a jaw joint condition called disc displacement without reduction, which causes pain and trouble opening the mouth. Fifty-two adults who haven't gotten better with standard care will be randomly assigned to get either arthroscopic surgery alo…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Cairo University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 13:00 UTC
-
Massage-like therapy may straighten posture and even faces, small trial suggests
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study tests whether myofascial release therapy, a type of hands-on treatment that loosens tight connective tissue, can improve body posture and facial symmetry in healthy adults. Sixty participants will be randomly assigned to receive the therapy twice a week for six weeks o…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Ece ACAR • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 12:37 UTC
-
Could a blood concentrate ease chronic jaw pain? new trial aims to find out
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study tests whether injections of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) can reduce pain and improve jaw function in people with chronic jaw muscle pain (myogenous TMD). Fifty women aged 20–50 with at least 3 months of pain will receive either PRP or a saltwater shot, then be followed f…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Karolinska Institutet • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 12:37 UTC
-
Jaw pain study tests two injection cocktails for better mouth opening
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study tests which injection mixture works better for people with a displaced jaw joint (TMJ) that still clicks and moves. Twenty adults will receive either a mix of hyaluronic acid and steroids or hyaluronic acid and platelet-rich plasma after a joint washout. The goal is to…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Cairo University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 12:36 UTC
-
Shock wave or activator: which eases neck pain best?
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study tests two treatments—trigger point activator and shock wave therapy—for people with painful knots in the upper neck muscle. One hundred adults aged 25–40 with active trigger points will be randomly assigned to one of the two therapies. Researchers will measure pain and…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Cairo University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 12:34 UTC
-
New muscle technique aims to loosen neck knots and boost grip strength
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study tests a hands-on technique called Integrated Neuromuscular Inhibition (INIMT) for people with painful muscle knots in the upper neck. 60 adults with trigger points will receive either INIMT plus standard therapy or standard therapy alone for four weeks. Researchers wil…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Cairo University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 12:33 UTC
-
At-Home rehab for back pain: no therapist needed?
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study tests whether tele-rehabilitation—guided video sessions with self-massage, stretches, and posture tips—can reduce pain and improve neck movement in people with rhomboid trigger points. Thirty-six adults with neck and upper back pain will be randomly assigned to either …
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Riphah International University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 12:30 UTC
-
Baking soda boost: could a kitchen staple improve pain injections?
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study looks at whether adding sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) to a standard lidocaine injection can provide better pain relief for people with myofascial pain syndrome, a condition causing muscle pain and trigger points. Thirty adults will be randomly assigned to receive ei…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Cairo University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 12:30 UTC
-
Home exercises with brain challenges may ease TMJ pain
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study tests whether adding dual-task exercises (combining physical movements with mental tasks) to standard physiotherapy, delivered via telerehabilitation, can reduce pain and improve jaw function in young adults with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction. Thirty partic…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Ege University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 12:29 UTC
-
Laser showdown: can stronger beams beat jaw pain?
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study tests whether a stronger laser (high-intensity) works better than a standard low-level laser for reducing pain and improving jaw movement in people with chronic jaw muscle pain. Forty adults will receive 12 laser sessions over one month and be followed for six months. …
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Cairo University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 12:08 UTC
-
Ultrasound vs. arthroscopy: which injection works better for TMJ pain?
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study tests two methods of injecting platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) into the jaw joint for people with a displaced disc that causes pain and limited mouth opening. One method uses ultrasound to guide the needle, the other uses a tiny camera (arthroscope). The goal is to see whic…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Cairo University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 12:07 UTC
-
New combo therapy targets ringing ears without drugs
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study tests whether combining physiotherapy, structured exercise, and psychological support can reduce the burden of chronic tinnitus (ringing in the ears) in 160 adults aged 18-70. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the 8-week multimodal program or a control g…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Charles University, Czech Republic • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 11:01 UTC
-
New injection technique may offer longer relief for piriformis pain
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study compares two treatments for buttock pain caused by piriformis syndrome and related muscle pain. Researchers will use ultrasound to guide either a sugar-water injection or a dry needle into the affected area. The goal is to see which method provides better pain relief o…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Istanbul University - Cerrahpasa • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 11:00 UTC
-
Light therapy tested as new way to soothe jaw pain
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study tests whether a special light therapy (photobiomodulation) can reduce pain and improve jaw function in people with myofascial temporomandibular disorder (TMD), a condition causing muscle pain in the face and jaw. About 140 adults will be split into three groups: light …
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 11:00 UTC
-
Needle vs needle: which pain treatment wins for stubborn shoulder knots?
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study tests three treatments for myofascial pain in the upper trapezius muscle: dry needling alone, dry needling plus a lidocaine injection, and a sham needling plus lidocaine. All groups also do stretching exercises. Ninety adults aged 18–65 with active trigger points will …
Phase: PHASE4 • Sponsor: Emre Ata, Assoc Prof • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 09:10 UTC
-
New injection aims to ease jaw pain in TMJ sufferers
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study tests whether a mix of two drugs (triamcinolone and lidocaine) injected into jaw muscle trigger points can reduce pain in people with TMJ disorders. About 30 adults will receive either the active injection or a placebo. The main goal is to see if it lowers pain intensi…
Phase: PHASE2, PHASE3 • Sponsor: Cairo University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 09:09 UTC
-
Can your own blood and fat heal aching joints? new trial aims to find out
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis early-phase trial will test four orthobiologic treatments—PRP, bone marrow concentrate, hyaluronic acid, and nanofat—in 300 adults with various muscle, joint, tendon, or bone conditions. The goal is to see if these natural substances can reduce pain and improve joint functio…
Phase: EARLY_PHASE1 • Sponsor: PROREGEN • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 09:08 UTC
-
Hands-On neck pain relief: which technique works best?
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study compares two hands-on treatments—Integrated Neuromuscular Inhibition and Active Release Technique—for people with neck pain caused by trigger points in the upper trapezius muscle. About 64 adults with active trigger points and forward head posture will receive one of t…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 09:03 UTC
-
Phone app may boost exercise for aching joints
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study looks at whether a mobile app can help people with common pains (neck, shoulder, back, or knee) do their prescribed home exercises more regularly. About 30 adults will be split into two groups: one using the app and one doing traditional exercises. The goal is to see i…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 08:12 UTC
-
Laser zaps neck pain: new study tests High-Intensity light therapy
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study tests whether high-intensity laser therapy can reduce pain and improve neck movement, daily function, and mood in people with trapezius myofascial pain syndrome. About 104 adults with neck pain for at least 4 weeks will receive either real or sham laser treatment. Rese…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Neveen Abd El Maksoad Kohaf • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 08:12 UTC
-
Jaw pain study: which injection method wins?
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study compares two methods of injecting medicine into the jaw joint to relieve pain and improve function: one using a tiny camera (arthroscopy) and the other using ultrasound guidance. About 50 adults with long-term jaw pain will take part. The goal is to see which approach …
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Cairo University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 08:09 UTC
-
Can tiny needles zap whiplash pain away?
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study compares two needle-based treatments—electrolysis and dry needling—against standard physiotherapy for whiplash pain from car accidents. Thirty-six adults with neck pain and active trigger points will receive one of the three approaches. The goal is to see which method …
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Camilo Jose Cela University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 08:00 UTC
-
Ab workouts for jaw pain? trial tests core strength as TMJ treatment
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study tests whether adding core-strengthening exercises to standard physical therapy can reduce pain and improve function in people with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Fifty adults with jaw pain will be randomly assigned to either standard TMJ therapy or standard t…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Loyola University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 07:56 UTC
-
Can massage tools beat stretching for tight hamstrings?
Symptom relief Not yet recruitingThis study looks at whether hands-on myofascial release or a tool called Graston can improve flexibility, balance, and agility better than home exercises in people with tight hamstrings. About 45 adults with hamstring shortness will be randomly assigned to one of three groups and…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Medipol University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 07:51 UTC
-
New urdu tool could help millions with muscle and joint pain
Knowledge-focused Not yet recruitingThis study aims to translate and adapt a widely used questionnaire for musculoskeletal problems into Urdu. Researchers will enroll 110 Urdu-speaking adults, including patients with muscle or joint issues and healthy volunteers. The goal is to create a validated tool to measure sy…
Sponsor: Riphah International University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 13:02 UTC
-
New imaging method could improve pelvic pain treatment
Knowledge-focused Not yet recruitingThis study aims to better understand and treat myofascial pelvic pain, a common cause of long-term pelvic pain in women. Researchers will use a noninvasive imaging technique to measure pelvic floor muscle function before and after three different treatments: education with relaxa…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, Los Angeles • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 12:37 UTC
-
AI vs. doctor: which note do patients trust more?
Knowledge-focused Not yet recruitingThis study looks at how patients feel when reading their own medical notes. Some will read the original doctor's note, others will read a simpler version written by artificial intelligence. Researchers want to see if the AI summary changes how much patients trust their doctor or …
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of Texas at Austin • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 12:36 UTC
-
Physical therapists may help cut jaw pain wait times
Knowledge-focused Not yet recruitingThis study looks at whether a specially trained physical therapist can diagnose jaw disorders (like TMJ) as accurately as an oral surgeon. 70 people with jaw pain will be checked by both a physical therapist and a surgeon, and their diagnoses will be compared. The goal is to see …
Phase: NA • Sponsor: McGill University Health Centre/Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 12:28 UTC
-
Mind-Body link in jaw pain under microscope
Knowledge-focused Not yet recruitingThis study will observe 300 people with long-term jaw and face muscle pain (TMD) to see how psychological factors relate to their physical symptoms. Participants will fill out questionnaires about their pain and other body symptoms. The goal is to better understand the role of me…
Sponsor: Bahria University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 11:02 UTC
-
Neck and jaw connection under the microscope: new study aims to unlock TMD secrets
Knowledge-focused Not yet recruitingThis observational study will measure how well the upper neck moves and how that relates to jaw motion in 50 adults with temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Participants will have their neck and jaw movements measured with simple tools. The goal is to understand if limited neck mo…
Sponsor: Deraya University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 09:00 UTC
-
AI takes on muscle pain: could a computer outthink your physical therapist?
Knowledge-focused Not yet recruitingThis study looks at whether using artificial intelligence (AI) can help physical therapists make better treatment choices for people with myofascial pain syndrome (a type of muscle pain). About 70 adults with chronic muscle pain will be split into two groups: one gets therapy dec…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Cairo University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 08:11 UTC
-
New digital tool aims to speed up return to work for those with muscle pain
Knowledge-focused Not yet recruitingThis study tests a decision support system called SmaRTWork to help people on sick leave due to muscle or back pain return to work. About 298 adults in Norway will either use the system or receive usual care. The main goal is to see if the tool helps them return to work sustainab…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Norwegian University of Science and Technology • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Jun 27, 2026 08:11 UTC
-
Can doctors hit the right muscle blind? new study aims to find out
Knowledge-focused Not yet recruitingThis study checks how often doctors can accurately needle specific hip muscles using only touch and landmarks, without ultrasound guidance. Forty adults with hip pain will receive dry needling, and a second doctor will use ultrasound to see if the needle hit the right spot. The g…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Erzurum Regional Training & Research Hospital • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Jun 26, 2026 19:16 UTC