Needle depth may matter: study tests which dry needling technique eases neck pain best

NCT ID NCT07637552

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study compares deep and superficial dry needling for neck pain caused by muscle trigger points. Participants receive four sessions over two weeks. Researchers use ultrasound and muscle activity tests to measure changes in muscle thickness, stiffness, blood flow, and pain. The goal is to find out which technique works better.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

dry needling (deep or superficial)

What this could lead to

If one technique proves superior, it could lead to more effective, targeted treatment for neck pain caused by muscle trigger points.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage study with only 44 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. Dry needling can cause temporary soreness or bruising.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Neck Pain

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Qatif Central Hospital

    Dammam, Eastern Province, 32654, Saudi Arabia