Grace Truesdale

Senior Project Advisor

Jessyca Arthur-Cameselle

Document Type

Project

Publication Date

Spring 2023

Keywords

trigger point, dry needling, neck pain, myofascial trigger point, muscular pain

Abstract

This review summarizes the current findings on the use of trigger point dry needling to treat neck pain in adults. The prevalence of neck pain and its associated costs makes it a common target for physical therapy treatments, one of which is trigger point dry needling. The findings of 19 studies are reviewed to present a comprehensive view of the topic, including a discussion of various study limitations. Although some contradictory findings and gaps in the literature exist, the majority of the studies reviewed suggest that trigger point dry needling is effective in decreasing neck pain intensity and improving associated symptoms, including increasing range of motion and pain pressure threshold. Findings indicate that negative outcomes are typically mild and short-lived, suggesting that dry needling should be considered as a treatment option for adults with neck pain.

Department

Health and Human Development

Type

Text

Rights

Copying of this document in whole or in part is allowable only for scholarly purposes. It is understood, however, that any copying or publication of this document for commercial purposes, or for financial gain, shall not be allowed without the author’s written permission.

Language

English

Format

application/pdf

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