Efficacy of Dry Needling in Myofascial Pain Syndrome: Evaluating the Impact on Pain Reduction and Muscle Function

Authors: Fahdah A. Aljamaan, Anoud O. Alanezi, Reem M. Aldosary, Eman A. Almutairi, Areej M. M. Al-Abdulrahman

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.13354703

Short DOI: https://doi.org/gt7hh4

Country: Saudi Arabia

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Abstract: Objective: This study investigates the efficacy of dry needling (DN) in reducing pain, enhancing muscle function, and improving disability in patients with myofascial pain syndrome (MPS).

Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 50 participants diagnosed with MPS. Participants were assigned to either the DN treatment group (n=25) or a control group receiving sham needling (n=25). DN was administered twice a week for 6 weeks. Pain levels were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), muscle function through Pressure Pain Threshold (PPT) and Range of Motion (ROM), and disability with the Revised Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Measurements were taken at baseline, post-treatment, and at 6 weeks follow-up.

Results: The DN group showed significant improvements compared to the control group. Pain levels decreased from 7.8 to 3.5 (p<0.001), PPT increased from 1.8 kg to 2.8 kg (p<0.01), and ROM improved from 90.5° to 110.1° (p<0.01). Disability scores reduced from 35.4 to 20.5 (p<0.001).

Conclusion: Dry needling is effective in reducing pain, improving muscle function, and decreasing disability in patients with MPS. The findings support its use as a therapeutic intervention for managing myofascial pain.

Keywords: Dry Needling, Myofascial Pain Syndrome, Pain Management, Muscle Function, Disability, Randomized Controlled Trial

Paper Id: 231054

Published On: 2018-07-04

Published In: Volume 6, Issue 4, July-August 2018

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