Effect of Dry Needling on Pain and Function in Adults With an Active Trigger Point in the Upper Trapezius Muscle: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials Publisher



Albomahmood K H ; Shadmehr A ; Ayati M H ; Mir S M ; Shab Bidar S
Source: Muscles, Ligaments and Tendons Journal Published:2026

Abstract

Objective: This systematic review of randomized controlled trials aimed to evaluate the efficacy of dry needling (DN) in improving pain and function among patients with myofascial trigger points in the upper trapezius muscle. Design: Systematic review conducted according to PRISMA guidelines, including randomized controlled trials. Methods: Studies were identified by searching PubMed, Scopus, The Cochrane Library, and Physiotherapy Evidence Database. Studies identified by electronic searches were screened against established, pre-defined inclusion criteria. These studies were randomized controlled trials that used DN for treating patients with active trigger points in the upper trapezius muscle with conventional treatments as controls. There are no specific limitations on the duration of treatment, the type of needling, or the severity of symptoms. These studies must have assessed pain sensitivity. Results: Four studies were included in this systematic review. The mean difference of pain sensitivity in all four studies for DN group was 0.59 kg/cm2, while in the control group was 0.05 kg/cm2, mean difference of pain intensity in DN group was 3.7 and control group was 0.7 and regarding to the range of motion (ROM) in DN group was 12.8 and control group was 6.3. Conclusions: This study showed significant positive outcomes in pain sensitivity, pain intensity, and range of motion following the intervention of DN, compared to the control group. Further high-quality randomized clinical trials with established protocols for applying DN are required. © 2026 The Author(s).