Needle vs. pressure: which works better for knots in your back?
NCT ID NCT07062692
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.
Disclaimer
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This is a summary of
the original study
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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.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Riphah International University, Malakand
Chakdara, KPK, 18800, Pakistan