The aim of this study is to compare the effects of dry needling treatment (DN) and ozone treatment on pain and functionality in individuals with myofascial pain syndrome affecting the upper trapezius (UT) region.
In this prospective randomized study to be conducted in Üsküdar state hospital, patients diagnosed with myofascial pain syndrome in the upper part of the trapezius muscle will be divided into 3 groups. 1st group patients will be given stretching exercises for the upper part of the trapezius muscle. The exercise program will last 15 days. In addition to exercise therapy, the 2nd group will receive dry needling treatment using acupuncture needles of 0.25 x 25mm in size by a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist with 5 years of experience in the field. Active trigger points will be treated. Trigger points will be diagnosed according to the criteria determined by Simons and Travell. Dry needling treatment will be applied in 3 sessions, one week apart. In the 3rd group, in addition to exercise therapy, 10 gamma ozone will be applied in a total of 3 sessions, one week apart to the upper part of the trapezius muscle by a physical therapist with 10 years of experience in the field. Patients will be evaluated at the beginning of the treatment, after 1 week, at the 3rd week, and after 1 month.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
DOUBLE
Enrollment
90
Dry needling is an evidence-based therapeutic procedure used primarily in musculoskeletal rehabilitation. It involves inserting thin needles into specific trigger points in muscles, tendons, or fascia, aiming to alleviate pain and improve musculoskeletal function. Unlike acupuncture, dry needling focuses on resolving myofascial pain and dysfunction by directly targeting trigger points, often identified through palpation and anatomical understanding. Academic exploration of dry needling delves into its physiological mechanisms, clinical effectiveness, and potential integration into comprehensive treatment strategies.
Intramuscular ozone injection is a therapeutic intervention utilized within the context of musculoskeletal care, particularly for individuals grappling with conditions such as myofascial pain syndrome and related neuromuscular issues. This technique involves the controlled introduction of ozone gas, a chemically reactive form of oxygen, directly into targeted muscle tissue through an injection. This intramuscular administration is guided by precise anatomical knowledge and is designed to harness the potential therapeutic benefits of ozone's reactive properties.
Pain measured by Visual Analog Scale
The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) is a widely used pain assessment tool in clinical settings. It involves a simple linear scale typically ranging from 0 to 10, where individuals mark a point to indicate their pain intensity level. The left end of the scale represents "no pain," assigned a value of 0, while the right end corresponds to "worst possible pain," denoted as 10. By gauging pain subjectively through this visual representation, the VAS provides a quantifiable measure of pain intensity, enabling healthcare professionals to track changes in pain over time and tailor treatment strategies accordingly.
Time frame: First day, after first week, after three weeks, after one month
Quality of Life Measured by Neck Disability Index
The Neck Disability Index (NDI) is a widely used tool to assess the impact of neck-related conditions on an individual's quality of life. It consists of a questionnaire that comprises ten items, each addressing different aspects of daily functioning and discomfort related to neck pain. Participants rate their level of difficulty in various activities such as lifting, reading, and sleeping on a scale from 0 to 5. The total score is then calculated and expressed as a percentage, providing valuable insights into the extent of neck-related disability and its effect on overall quality of life. The NDI aids clinicians in evaluating treatment outcomes, designing intervention plans, and monitoring improvements in neck-related functionality.
Time frame: First day, after first week, after three weeks, after one month
Range of Motion Measured by Goniometer
A goniometer is a standard instrument used to measure the range of motion (ROM) of the neck joints. It consists of arms and a protractor that allows clinicians to precisely quantify the angles achieved during various neck movements. During assessment, the patient is guided through specific motions like flexion, extension, rotation, and lateral bending, while the goniometer's arms are aligned with the corresponding body landmarks. The resulting measurements provide objective data about the neck's flexibility and mobility, aiding healthcare professionals in diagnosing musculoskeletal conditions, planning treatment strategies, and tracking progress over time.
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Time frame: First day, after first week, after three weeks, after one month