Overview
This study is interested in whether baseline measures of pain sensitivity i.e. the amount of pressure required to feel pain predicts pain relief following a pain inducing massage AND whether pain relief following a pain inducing massage is different than a pain free massage or placing your hand in a cold water bath. Participants with neck pain will be randomly assigned to receive a pain inducing massage, pain free massage, or to place their hand in a cold water bath.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Age 18 to 60 years old
- Currently experiencing neck pain with or without arm pain
- Neck pain symptom intensity rated as 4/10 or higher during the last 24 hours
- Neck pain for greater than or equal to 3 months
Exclusion Criteria:
- Non- English speaking
- Systemic medical conditions known to affect sensation (e.g. diabetes)
- History of neck surgery or fracture within the past 6 months
- Current history of chronic pain condition other than neck pain
- Diagnosis of cervical radiculopathy or cervical myelopathy
- History of whiplash
- Currently using blood thinning medication
- Any blood clotting disorder such as hemophilia
- Any contraindication to application of ice, such as: uncontrolled hypertension, cold urticaria, cryoglobulinemia, paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria, and circulatory compromise
- Pregnancy