RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT07413770

Comparison of Treatment Modalities in Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Effects of Classical Massage in Individuals With Myofascial Pain Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Sponsor

Biruni University

Enrollment

60 participants

Start Date

Jan 12, 2026

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Physiotherapy Pain Massage Therapy Myofascial Pain Dysfunction Syndrome

Summary

The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of classical massage on pain, muscle sensitivity, muscle activity, functional status, and quality of life in individuals with myofascial pain syndrome, and to compare the effectiveness of classical massage applied alone versus in combination with a conventional physiotherapy program.

Eligibility

Min Age: 30 YearsMax Age: 50 Years

Inclusion Criteria7

Diagnosis of myofascial pain syndrome confirmed by a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician, according to the criteria of Travell and Simons (1992)
Male or female participants aged 30-50 years
Presence of at least one active trigger point in the upper trapezius muscle confirmed by palpation
Pain radiating to the neck and upper extremity persisting for at least 3 months
Pain intensity of ≥4/10 on the Visual Analog Scale (VAS)
Functional impairment indicated by a Neck Disability Index (NDI) score ≥10/50 (≥20%)
Written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria6

Presence of diagnosed systemic musculoskeletal or rheumatologic disorders (e.g., fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis)
Signs or symptoms of neuropathic pain or cervical radiculopathy
Conditions contraindicating massage therapy (e.g., skin infection, open wounds, bleeding disorders, active inflammation)
Receipt of manual therapy, massage, dry needling, injections, or similar treatments targeting the affected region within the preceding 1 month
Pregnancy or breastfeeding
History of acute trauma, fracture, or surgical intervention involving the neck or shoulder region

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Interventions

OTHERConventional treatment

Participants inthis group will receive a conventional physiotherapy program consisting of moist heat application for 15 minutes, pain-limited static stretching of the upper trapezius muscle (30-second stretch with 10-second rest, repeated five times), electrotherapy modalities (TENS, ultrasound, and infrared therapy), and postural education with a home exercise program for approximately 10 minutes.

OTHERTherapeutic Massage

Participants in this group will receive a 20-minute therapeutic massage intervention identical in technique and sequence to the massage component applied in combined group, targeting the neck and upper back muscles using Swedish massage techniques, without additional conventional physiotherapy modalities.

OTHERcombined treatment

Participants in this group will receive a combined intervention consisting of a conventional physiotherapy program together with a 20-minute therapeutic massage applied to the neck and upper back muscles (erector spinae, upper and middle trapezius, and levator scapulae), delivered according to Swedish massage principles, including effleurage, kneading, and deep friction techniques targeting active trigger points.