Needle vs. pressure: which works better for knots in your back?

NCT ID NCT07062692

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Riphah International University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study tested two common treatments for painful knots in the upper back muscles: dry needling (inserting thin needles) and manual trigger point release (applying pressure and stretching). Forty-eight adults with at least four weeks of moderate to severe pain took part. Researchers measured pain, range of motion, and daily function to see which method works best.

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 and manual trigger point release
What this could lead to: If successful, this could show which technique is better for relieving upper back pain and improving movement, helping guide treatment choices.
What could go wrong: This is a small, completed study with only 48 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. Both treatments are generally safe but may cause temporary soreness or bruising.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

myofascial pain syndrome

As listed by the trial registrant

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

TRIGGER POINT PAIN, MYOFASCIAL

Contacts and locations

Locations

Riphah International University, Malakand

Chakdara, KPK, 18800, Pakistan

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