Overview
This study aims to compare the effectiveness of dry needling, extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), and pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) in patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain. The primary outcomes include pain intensity and functional status. Patients will be randomly assigned to different treatment groups, and outcomes will be evaluated before and after the interventions. The results of this study are expected to contribute to determining the most effective treatment method for pain management.
Description
Myofascial pain syndrome is a common musculoskeletal disorder characterized by trigger points and chronic pain. Various treatment modalities such as dry needling, extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), and pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) are used in clinical practice; however, there is no clear consensus on the most effective approach.
This randomized, parallel-group study aims to compare the effectiveness of these three treatment methods in patients diagnosed with myofascial pain syndrome. Eligible patients aged between 18 and 65 years with chronic back pain lasting at least 3 months will be included in the study. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive dry needling, ESWT, or PRF treatment.
Pain intensity will be assessed using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), and functional outcomes will also be evaluated. The study is expected to contribute to the current literature by providing comparative data on these commonly used treatment modalities and guiding clinical decision-making.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Age between 18 and 65 years
- Clinically diagnosed myofascial pain syndrome
- Back pain lasting at least 3 months
- Failure to respond to conservative treatments
Exclusion Criteria:
- History of cervical surgery or cervical disc pathology
- Fibromyalgia
- Shoulder pathologies
- Coagulation disorders or use of anticoagulant therapy
- Infection, malignancy, or inflammatory spinal diseases
