The effectivity of trigger point dry needling in improving pain on people with upper trapezius myalgia

Abstract

Objective

This study aims to determine the effectivity of dry needling added to the standard treatment to improve pain in patients with upper trapezius myalgia.

Methods

This study is a randomized controlled trial conducted at Inco Hospital, Sorowako, South Sulawesi, Indonesia, involving 20 subjects who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Subjects were divided into two equal groups. The intervention group was treated with dry needling as the addition to standard care, and the control group was treated with standard care only. Both groups were treated three times a week for five weeks. The pain was measured using NPRS at baseline and after three times therapy for five weeks.

Results

At the end of therapy, both groups showed a decrease in pain perception compared to baseline. The pain was improved significantly better in the intervention group compared to the control group.

Conclusion

The addition of dry needling in the standard care of upper trapezius myalgia resulted in more effective pain improvement compared to usual care.