1
|
Kużdżał A, Clemente FM, Kawczyński A, Ryszkiel I, Trybulski R. Comparing The Effects of Compression Contrast Therapy and Dry Needling on Muscle Functionality, Pressure Pain Threshold, and Perfusion after Isometric Fatigue in Forearm Muscles of Combat Sports Athletes: A Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial. J Sports Sci Med 2024; 23:548-558. [PMID: 39228772 PMCID: PMC11366852 DOI: 10.52082/jssm.2024.548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to compare the acute effects of compression contrast therapy (CT) and dry needling therapy (DN) on muscle tension (MT), muscle strength (Fmax), pressure pain threshold (PPT), and perfusion (PU) following fatigue of forearm muscles (e.g., flexor carpi radialis) in combat sports athletes. A single-blind randomized controlled trial was employed. Participants first underwent muscle fatigue induction, which involved sustaining an isometric handgrip at 60% of their maximum voluntary contraction in 5-second cycles. This was followed by exposure to one of the regenerative therapies. Forty-five participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: CT/DN (n = 15), CT/ShDN (n = 15), and ShCT/DN (n = 15). The sham condition (Sh) involved a simulated version of the technique. Measurements were taken at four time points: (i) at rest; (ii) immediately after exercise that led to a state of fatigue; (iii) 5 minutes after therapy (PostTh5min); and (iv) 24 hours after therapy (PostTh24h). Each participant was exposed to one experimental condition and one control condition, thereby undergoing evaluation in two sessions. Significant differences between groups were found in MT during the PostTh5min (p = 0.005), as well as in PU during the PostTh5min (p < 0.001) and PU during the PostTh24h (p < 0.001). All groups showed significant improvements at 5 minutes post-therapy compared to immediately post-muscle fatigue. As conclusions, CT/DN seems to be significantly better for enhancing MT and PU after 5 minutes of muscle fatigue induction. Using either CT, DN, or both combined is recommended to enhance the recovery of muscle functionality and properties, favoring recovery and potentially speeding up performance enhancement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Kużdżał
- Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medical Sciences, University of Rzeszów, Poland
| | - Filipe Manue Clemente
- Department of Biomechanics and Sport Engineering, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, Poland
- Escola Superior Desporto e Lazer, Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo, Rua Escola Industrial e Comercial de Nun'Álvares, Viana do Castelo, Portugal
- Sport Physical Activity and Health Research & Innovation Center, Viana do Castelo, Portugal
| | - Adam Kawczyński
- Department of Biomechanics and Sport Engineering, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, Poland
| | - Ireneusz Ryszkiel
- Medical University of Silesia, College of Medical Sciences, Katowice Poland
| | - Robert Trybulski
- Medical Department Wojciech Korfanty, Upper Silesian Academy, Katowice, Poland
- Provita Żory Medical Center, Żory, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Trybulski R, Kużdżał A, Stanula A, Klich S, Clemente FM, Kawczyński A, Fernández-de-Las-Peñas C. Biomechanical Profile after Dry Needling in Mixed Martial Arts. Int J Sports Med 2024. [PMID: 38857879 DOI: 10.1055/a-2342-3679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of dry needling (DN) intervention on the responses of muscle tone, stiffness, and elasticity, as well as power, pressure pain thresholds, and blood perfusion of the flexor carpi radialis muscle in mixed martial arts (MMA) athletes. Thirty-two trained/developmental men MMA fighters (25.5±4.5 years; 24.5±3 body mass index) participated in a randomized crossover study. Participants underwent a single intervention, receiving both DN and placebo. Laser Doppler flowmetry measured blood perfusion, while a myotonometer assessed the mechanical characteristics of muscle tone, stiffness, and elasticity of the flexor carpi radialis muscle. Pressure pain thresholds (PPT) were measured using an algometer, and maximal forearm muscle force was measured using a hand dynamometer. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, immediately after, and 24 hours and 48 hours post-intervention. A two-way repeated-measures ANOVA revealed significant Intervention*Time interaction for all outcomes: perfusion unit (p<0.001), muscle tone (p<0.001), stiffness (p<0.001), elasticity (p<0.001), PPT (p<0.001) and maximal forearm muscle force (p<0.001). The current study suggests that a single session of DN enhances muscle recovery, increases muscle strength, and improved PPT in MMA athletes. These positive adaptations appear to last up to 48 hours in some variables.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Trybulski
- Department of Medical Sciences, Department of Medical Sciences, The Wojciech Korfanty School of Economics, 40-065 Katowice, Poland
| | - Adrian Kużdżał
- Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medical Sciences, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medical Sciences, University of Rzeszow, Rejtana Street 16C, 35-959 Rzeszow, Poland
| | - Arkadiusz Stanula
- Laboratory of Sport Performance Analysis, Institute of Sport Sciences, Laboratory of Sport Performance Analysis, Institute of Sport Sciences, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice, Mikolowska Street 72a, 40-065 Katowice, Poland
| | - Sebastian Klich
- Department of Paralympic Sport, Department of Paralympic Sport, Wrocław University of Health and Sport Sciences, 51-612 Wrocław, Poland
| | - Filipe Manuel Clemente
- Sports Sciences, Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo Escola Superior de Desporto e Lazer, Melgaco, Portugal
- Department of Biomechanics and Sport Engineering, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Adam Kawczyński
- Department of Biomechanics and Sport Engineering, Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, 80-336 Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
- Departament of Paralympic Games, Wrocław University of Health and Sport Sciences, Departament of Paralympic Games, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Cesar Fernández-de-Las-Peñas
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcon, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Doménech-García V, Pecos-Martín D, Blasco-Abadía J, Bellosta-López P, López-Royo MP. Placebo and nocebo effects of percutaneous needle electrolysis and dry-needling: an intra and inter-treatment sessions analysis of a three-arm randomized double-blinded controlled trial in patients with patellar tendinopathy. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1381515. [PMID: 38903823 PMCID: PMC11187289 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1381515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to investigate the influence of potential placebo and nocebo effects on pain perception of percutaneous needle electrolysis (PNE) in individuals with patellar tendinopathy. Methods In this secondary analysis of a three-arm randomized double-blinded controlled trial, intra and inter-session pain perception data from 48 sporting participants with patellar tendinopathy between 18 and 45 years were investigated. Participants were divided into 3 parallel groups: "no-sham group" [PNE intervention], "single-sham group" [sham PNE by using dry needling], and "double-sham group" [sham PNE by using sham needles]. Every group received 4 sessions of the needling therapies targeting the patellar tendon over 8 weeks and was instructed to perform a unilateral eccentric exercise program of the quadriceps muscle on the affected side. Clinical and needle-related pain was assessed before, during, and after each treatment session using a visual analog scale. Results No differences were found between groups intra- or inter-session in terms of pain reduction (P = 0.424) despite clinical pain decreased in all groups since the first treatment session (P < 0.001). Furthermore, although the double-sham group showed a lower percentage of participants reporting needle-related pain during needle intervention (P = 0.005), the needle-related pain intensity after needle intervention was similar between groups (P = 0.682). Moreover, there were no group differences for the duration of pain sensation after any needle intervention (P = 0.184), extending in many cases beyond 24 h. Conclusion Needling therapies for individuals with patellar tendinopathy are prone to elicit placebo effects regarding clinical pain and nocebo effects regarding needling-related pain. Clinicians and physical therapists treating musculoskeletal pain conditions should consider the added value and potential mechanisms of action before routinely using needle techniques.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniel Pecos-Martín
- Departamento de Enfermería y Fisioterapia, Universidad de Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Gerges ANH, Graetz L, Hillier S, Uy J, Hamilton T, Opie G, Vallence AM, Braithwaite FA, Chamberlain S, Hordacre B. Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation modifies cortical excitability in middle-aged and older adults. Psychophysiology 2024:e14584. [PMID: 38602055 DOI: 10.1111/psyp.14584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
There is a growing interest in the clinical application of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS). However, its effect on cortical excitability, and whether this is modulated by stimulation duration, remains unclear. We evaluated whether taVNS can modify excitability in the primary motor cortex (M1) in middle-aged and older adults and whether the stimulation duration moderates this effect. In addition, we evaluated the blinding efficacy of a commonly reported sham method. In a double-blinded randomized cross-over sham-controlled study, 23 healthy adults (mean age 59.91 ± 6.87 years) received three conditions: active taVNS for 30 and 60 min and sham for 30 min. Single and paired-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation was delivered over the right M1 to evaluate motor-evoked potentials. Adverse events, heart rate and blood pressure measures were evaluated. Participant blinding effectiveness was assessed via guesses about group allocation. There was an increase in short-interval intracortical inhibition (F = 7.006, p = .002) and a decrease in short-interval intracortical facilitation (F = 4.602, p = .014) after 60 min of taVNS, but not 30 min, compared to sham. taVNS was tolerable and safe. Heart rate and blood pressure were not modified by taVNS (p > .05). Overall, 96% of participants detected active stimulation and 22% detected sham stimulation. taVNS modifies cortical excitability in M1 and its effect depends on stimulation duration in middle-aged and older adults. taVNS increased GABAAergic inhibition and decreased glutamatergic activity. Sham taVNS protocol is credible but there is an imbalance in beliefs about group allocation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashraf N H Gerges
- Innovation, Implementation and Clinical Translation (IIMPACT) in Health, Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Lynton Graetz
- College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Susan Hillier
- Innovation, Implementation and Clinical Translation (IIMPACT) in Health, Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Jeric Uy
- Innovation, Implementation and Clinical Translation (IIMPACT) in Health, Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Taya Hamilton
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - George Opie
- Discipline of Physiology, School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Ann-Maree Vallence
- School of Psychology, College of Health and Education, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Centre for Healthy Ageing, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Felicity A Braithwaite
- Innovation, Implementation and Clinical Translation (IIMPACT) in Health, Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Saran Chamberlain
- Innovation, Implementation and Clinical Translation (IIMPACT) in Health, Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Brenton Hordacre
- Innovation, Implementation and Clinical Translation (IIMPACT) in Health, Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Trybulski R, Stanula A, Żebrowska A, Podleśny M, Hall B. Acute Effects of the Dry Needling Session on Gastrocnemius Muscle Biomechanical Properties, and Perfusion with Latent Trigger Points - A Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial in Mixed Martial Arts Athletes. J Sports Sci Med 2024; 23:136-146. [PMID: 38455447 PMCID: PMC10915622 DOI: 10.52082/jssm.2024.136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
The study aimed to evaluate the immediate effects of a dry needling (DN) therapy session on biomechanical properties, muscle power, perfusion, and pressure pain threshold of the gastrocnemius muscle with latent trigger points. Twenty mixed martial arts athletes (MMA) were randomly divided into two groups: experimental (eDN, n = 10) and sham (qDN, n = 10) to undergo one session of DN either with a real or a qazi needle. The measurements were taken at rest, 1-5 minutes after the DN (Post1-5min) and 24h after the DN (Post24h). DN significantly increased the muscle perfusion (Post1-5min and Post24h, p < 0.001), reduced its tone (Post1-5min and Post24h, p < 0.001) and stiffness (Post1-5min, p < 0.05; Post24 h, p < 0.001), and improved its elasticity (Post1-5min and Post24h, p < 0.001). DN also caused a significant increase in pressure pain threshold (Post1-5min, p < 0.001; Post24h, p < 0.05) and in muscle power (Post24h, p < 0.01). The DN session increased the blood perfusion and improved the biomechanical properties of the gastrocnemius muscle, which led to improved muscle power. The DN also had an analgesic effect. These effects were maintained at 24 h, which suggests that DN could facilitate muscle recovery in a post-exercise period of MMA athletes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Trybulski
- Medical Department of the Wojciech Korfanty Upper Silesian Academy, Poland
| | - Arkadiusz Stanula
- Laboratory of Sport Performance Analysis, Institute of Sport Sciences, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Żebrowska
- Department of Physiology, School of Physiological-Medical Sciences, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice, Poland
| | | | - Barbara Hall
- Department of Physiology, School of Physiological-Medical Sciences, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Irving R, Schmidt E, Stone M, Fleming RK, Xie JY. Meta-epidemiologic review: blinding and sham treatment in clinical trial design for osteopathic manipulative treatment research. INT J OSTEOPATH MED 2024; 51:100705. [PMID: 38312536 PMCID: PMC10836155 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijosm.2023.100705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Objective To analyze the consistency of study designs in osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) research, focusing on blinding protocols and the use of sham treatments. Data Source and Study Selection PubMed and CINAHL were searched in January 2022. A total of 83 research studies between 2009 and 2021 were selected based on the presence of a double- or single-blind study design and/or sham treatment. Data Extraction and Analysis Data regarding the primary outcome measures, blinding design, measures used to determine success of blinding, osteopathic technique used, and sham technique used for each eligible study were extracted and compared among different study designs. Results A total of 5968 subjects participated in the 83 trials. The study population mainly consisted of asymptomatic individuals (25%) and chronic back pain patients (19%). Light touch was employed most commonly (49%) as the sham treatment, followed by unrelated sham (20%) and incomplete maneuvers (20%). Most studies blinded the subjects (80%) or the outcome evaluator/data analyzer (71%), while only 20% studies blinded the osteopathic physicians. Conclusions Strict double-blinding is achievable for OMT clinical research by blinding the subjects and data collectors/analyzers rather than the osteopaths providing the actual treatment. The use of questionnaires to determine the success of blinding should be considered. Additionally, including OMT-naïve subjects is preferred to enhance blinding success. When designing a sham treatment, careful consideration should be given to blinding the data collector, accounting for the placebo effect, and incorporating an additional no-treatment control group to improve the rigor of the study design.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard Irving
- Department of Basic Sciences, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine at Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, AR, USA
| | - Emma Schmidt
- Department of Basic Sciences, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine at Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, AR, USA
| | - Michaela Stone
- Biology Department, Arkansas Biosciences Institute, Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, AR, USA
| | - Regina K. Fleming
- Department of Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine at Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, AR, USA
| | - Jennifer Yanhua Xie
- Department of Basic Sciences, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine at Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, AR, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Byrne A, Lodge C, Wallace J. Design and testing the validity of an inexpensive and accessible sham dry needling protocol. J Bodyw Mov Ther 2023; 35:169-174. [PMID: 37330765 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2023.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To use a simple method of needle blunting to produce a placebo dry needling protocol which is indistinguishable from the sensations felt during therapeutic dry needling. METHODS A randomised cross-over design was used to compare the perception of needle skin penetration, pain experienced and types of sensations experienced following a single placebo dry needling and a single therapeutic dry needling application. RESULTS There were no significant differences in the proportions of patients reported ability to perceive needle penetration (p = 0.646), description of needling sensations (p = 0.3) or pain rating (p = 0.405) when comparing placebo needling to therapeutic dry needling. CONCLUSION Needle tip bending creates a simple, cost-effective and effective placebo needle for use in comparisons with therapeutic dry needling. This offers researchers a viable alternative to expensive and inappropriate acupuncture sham devices when conducting dry needling trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Byrne
- Department of Health and Sport Sciences, South East Technological University, Carlow, Ireland.
| | - C Lodge
- Department of Health and Sport Sciences, South East Technological University, Carlow, Ireland.
| | - J Wallace
- Department of Health and Sport Sciences, South East Technological University, Carlow, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Naseri F, Dadgoo M, Pourahmadi M, Amroodi MN, Azizi S, Tabrizian P, Amiri A. Dry needling in a multimodal rehabilitation protocol following rotator cuff repair surgery: study protocol for a double-blinded randomized sham-controlled trial. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2023; 24:330. [PMID: 37101278 PMCID: PMC10131318 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-023-06269-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rotator cuff tear (RCT) is one of the main causes of shoulder pain and dysfunction. Rotator cuff repair (RCR) is a common surgical procedure for the management of RCTs. Presence of myofascial trigger points (MTrP) as a result of surgical procedure can aggravate postoperative shoulder pain. The purpose of this protocol is to describe a randomized controlled trial design to evaluate the effect of implementing 4 sessions of myofascial trigger point dry needling (MTrP-DN) within a multimodal rehabilitation protocol following RCR surgery. METHODS Forty-six participants aged 40-75 will be recruited having postoperative shoulder pain after RCR and meeting the inclusion criteria. Participants will be randomly divided into 2 groups: One group will undergo MTrP-DN, manual therapy, exercise therapy and electrotherapy and the other will receive sham dry needling (S-DN), manual therapy, exercise therapy and electrotherapy. This protocol will cover 4 weeks of intervention. The primary outcome measure will be the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) for pain. Secondary outcome measures will be Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPDI), range of motion (ROM), strength and adverse events. DISCUSSION This is the first study to investigate the use of 4 sessions of MTrP-DN in combination with a multimodal rehabilitation protocol for postoperative shoulder pain, restriction, weakness and dysfunction following RCR. The results of this study may help to determine the effect of MTrP-DN on various outcomes after RCR surgery. TRIAL REGISTRATION This trial was registered at the ( https://www.irct.ir ), (IRCT20211005052677N1) on 19/2/2022.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Faeze Naseri
- Department of Physiotherapy, Rehabilitation Research Center, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Madadkaran All., Shahnazari St., Madar Sq., Mirdamad Blvd., Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Dadgoo
- Department of Physiotherapy, Rehabilitation Research Center, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Madadkaran All., Shahnazari St., Madar Sq., Mirdamad Blvd., Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mohammadreza Pourahmadi
- Department of Physiotherapy, Rehabilitation Research Center, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Madadkaran All., Shahnazari St., Madar Sq., Mirdamad Blvd., Tehran, Iran
| | - Morteza Nakhaei Amroodi
- Department of Orthopedics, Bone and Joint Reconstruction Research Center, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shirin Azizi
- Department of Physiotherapy, Rehabilitation Research Center, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Madadkaran All., Shahnazari St., Madar Sq., Mirdamad Blvd., Tehran, Iran
| | - Pouria Tabrizian
- Department of Orthopedics, Bone and Joint Reconstruction Research Center, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Amiri
- Department of Physiotherapy, Rehabilitation Research Center, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Madadkaran All., Shahnazari St., Madar Sq., Mirdamad Blvd., Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Chys M, De Meulemeester K, De Greef I, Murillo C, Kindt W, Kouzouz Y, Lescroart B, Cagnie B. Clinical Effectiveness of Dry Needling in Patients with Musculoskeletal Pain-An Umbrella Review. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12031205. [PMID: 36769852 PMCID: PMC9917679 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12031205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The number of systematic reviews (SR) summarizing the literature regarding the clinical effects of Dry Needling (DN) has increased rapidly. Yet, rigorous evidence about the clinical effectiveness of this technique is still lacking. The aim of this umbrella review is to summarize the evidence about the clinical effects of trigger point DN on musculoskeletal disorders across all body regions. PubMed, Web of Science and Embase were searched to identify SRs examining the effect of DN (as a stand-alone intervention or combined with another treatment modality) compared to sham/no intervention or a physical therapy (PT) intervention with at least one clinical outcome in the domain of pain or physical functioning. Risk of bias (RoB) was assessed with the AMSTAR-2 tool. Quantification of the overlap in primary studies was calculated using the corrected covered area (CCA). The electronic search yielded 2286 results, of which 36 SRs were included in this review. Overall, DN is superior to sham/no intervention and equally effective to other interventions for pain reduction at short-term regardless of the body region. Some SRs favored wet needling (WN) over DN for short-term pain reductions. Results on physical functioning outcomes were contradictory across body regions. Limited data is available for mid- and long-term effects. DN has a short-term analgesic effect in all body regions and may be of additional value to the interventions that are used to date in clinical practice. Several studies have shown an additional treatment effect when combining DN to physiotherapeutic interventions compared to these interventions in isolation. There is a substantial need for the standardization of DN protocols to address the problem of heterogeneity and to strengthen the current evidence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marjolein Chys
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Correspondence:
| | | | - Indra De Greef
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Carlos Murillo
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Pain in Motion International Research Group, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Wouter Kindt
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Yassir Kouzouz
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bavo Lescroart
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Barbara Cagnie
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Chys M, Bontinck J, Voogt L, Sendarrubias GMG, Cagnie B, Meeus M, De Meulemeester K. Immediate effects of dry needling on pain sensitivity and pain modulation in patients with chronic idiopathic neck pain: a single-blinded randomized clinical trial. Braz J Phys Ther 2023; 27:100481. [PMID: 36709694 PMCID: PMC9894914 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjpt.2023.100481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dry needling is frequently used for the treatment of neck pain but knowledge about its neurophysiological central effects is scarce. OBJECTIVES To compare the immediate effects of a single session of dry needling (DN) and sham needling (SN) on local and distant pressure pain thresholds and conditioned pain modulation in patients with chronic idiopathic neck pain. METHOD Participants with chronic idiopathic neck pain were randomly allocated to a DN or SN group. The primary outcome measure was the pressure pain threshold (PPT) at one peripheral location: quadriceps muscle (Q). Secondary outcome measures were local PPTs at the treated (most painful) (tUT) and non-treated upper trapezius muscle (ntUT), absolute and relative conditioned pain modulation (CPM) effects and pain during hot water immersion. Patients were assessed at baseline and immediately post intervention. Linear mixed models were used to examine interaction effects as well as between- and within-group differences. RESULTS Fifty-four participants were included for statistical analysis. Linear mixed model analyses showed no significant "group X time" interaction effects for any of the outcome measures. The relative CPM effect at the Q was significantly higher post-intervention, compared to baseline within the DN group (mean difference= 13.52%; 95% CI: 0.46, 26.59). CONCLUSION The present study shows no superior effect of DN, compared to SN, in the immediate effect on local and distant PPTs and CPM in patients with chronic idiopathic neck pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marjolein Chys
- Spine, Head and Pain Research Unit Ghent, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Gent 9000, Belgium.
| | - Jente Bontinck
- Spine, Head and Pain Research Unit Ghent, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Gent 9000, Belgium; Pain in Motion International Research Group, www.paininmotion.be
| | - Lennard Voogt
- Pain in Motion International Research Group, www.paininmotion.be; Research Centre for Health Care Innovations, Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Barbara Cagnie
- Spine, Head and Pain Research Unit Ghent, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Gent 9000, Belgium
| | - Mira Meeus
- Spine, Head and Pain Research Unit Ghent, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Gent 9000, Belgium; Pain in Motion International Research Group, www.paininmotion.be; Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, MOVANT Research group, University of Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Kayleigh De Meulemeester
- Spine, Head and Pain Research Unit Ghent, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Gent 9000, Belgium; Pain in Motion International Research Group, www.paininmotion.be
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Martínez-Silván D, Santomé-Martínez F, Champón-Chekroun AM, Velázquez-Saornil J, Gómez-Merino S, Cos-Morera MA, Morral-Fernández A, Mascaró-Vilella A, Ricis-Guerra M, García-Bol F, Posada-Franco V, Sebastiá V, Cano-Herrera C, Ramírez-Parenteau C. Clinical use of percutaneous needle electrolysis in musculoskeletal injuries: A critical and systematic review of the literature. APUNTS SPORTS MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.apunsm.2022.100396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
|
12
|
Lucena-Anton D, Luque-Moreno C, Valencia-Medero J, Garcia-Munoz C, Moral-Munoz JA. Effectiveness of Dry Needling of Myofascial Trigger Points in the Triceps Surae Muscles: Systematic Review. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10101862. [PMID: 36292308 PMCID: PMC9602116 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10101862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aims to analyze the effects of Dry Needling (DN) for the release of myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) in the triceps surae muscles (TSM). A systematic review was performed up to February 2022 in PubMed, PEDro, Scopus, CENTRAL, and Web of Science. Selection criteria were studies involving subjects older than 18 years presenting MTrPs in the TSM, without any concomitant acute or chronic musculoskeletal conditions; DN interventions applied to the MTrPs of the TSM; and results on pain, range of motion (ROM), muscle strength, muscle stiffness, and functional outcomes. The PEDro scale was used to assess the methodological quality of the studies, and the Risk of Bias Tool 2.0 to assess risk of bias. A total of 12 studies were included in the systematic review, involving 426 participants. These results suggest that DN of MTrPs in TSM could have a positive impact on muscle stiffness and functional outcomes. There are inconclusive findings on musculoskeletal pain, ROM, and muscle strength. Significant results were obtained in favor of the control groups on pressure pain thresholds. Despite the benefits obtained on muscle stiffness and functional performance, the evidence for the use of DN of MTrPs in the TSM remains inconclusive.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Lucena-Anton
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Nursing and Physiotherapy, University of Cadiz, 11009 Cadiz, Spain
| | - Carlos Luque-Moreno
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podiatry, University of Seville, 41009 Seville, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Jesus Valencia-Medero
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Nursing and Physiotherapy, University of Cadiz, 11009 Cadiz, Spain
| | - Cristina Garcia-Munoz
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Nursing and Physiotherapy, University of Cadiz, 11009 Cadiz, Spain
| | - Jose A. Moral-Munoz
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Nursing and Physiotherapy, University of Cadiz, 11009 Cadiz, Spain
- Institute of Research and Innovation in Biomedical Sciences of the Province of Cadiz (INiBICA), University of Cadiz, 11009 Cadiz, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Sánchez-Infante J, Bravo-Sánchez A, Esteban-García P, Jiménez F, Abián-Vicen J. Changes in electromyographic activity of latent trigger points after a dry needling intervention: a randomised controlled trial. Physiotherapy 2022; 117:72-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.physio.2022.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
|
14
|
Young BA, Boland DM, Manzo A, Yaw H, Carlson B, Carrier S, Corcoran K, Dial M, Briggs RB, Tragord B, Koppenhaver SL. Immediate Effects of Adding Dry Needling to Thoracic Manipulation and Exercise in Cervical Range of Motion for Adults With Neck Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial. J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2022; 45:531-542. [PMID: 36517270 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmpt.2022.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to determine the immediate effects of adding dry needling (DN) to thoracic spine manipulation and neck-specific exercise in individuals with neck pain. METHODS Forty-two participants with neck pain were randomized to either the true (n = 21) or sham (n = 21) DN groups, receiving treatment on the initial visit and 2 to 3 days later. Outcomes were assessed on day 1, both at baseline and immediately after the initial treatment, at the second treatment 2 to 3 days later, and at the final visit 5 to 7 days after visit 2. Primary outcomes were Neck Disability Index (NDI) (0-50) and current pain via numeric pain rating scale (0-10). Secondary outcomes were cervical range of motion, pain pressure threshold, and global rating of change. RESULTS Repeated measures analysis of covariance with baseline value as covariate revealed no significant difference in NDI scores at either follow-up time point with adjusted mean differences (95% confidence interval) of -0.11 (-2.70 to 2.48) and 0.31 (-1.96 to 2.57). There were no between-group differences in pain at any time point via Independent-Samples Median Test (P value range of .54-1.0). Secondary outcome measures were similarly not statistically different between groups except for immediate improvements in rotation to the side opposite of pain, which favored DN, with an adjusted mean difference (95% confidence interval) of 7.85 (3.54-12.15) degrees. CONCLUSION The addition of DN to thoracic spinal manipulation and neck-specific exercise did not affect improvements in NDI score or numeric pain rating scale but showed an increase in cervical range of motion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brian A Young
- Department of Physical Therapy, Baylor University, Waco, Texas.
| | - David M Boland
- Army-Baylor University, JBSA Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Abby Manzo
- Army-Baylor University, JBSA Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Haley Yaw
- Army-Baylor University, JBSA Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Brian Carlson
- Army-Baylor University, JBSA Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Spencer Carrier
- Army-Baylor University, JBSA Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Kameryn Corcoran
- Army-Baylor University, JBSA Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Megan Dial
- Army-Baylor University, JBSA Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Robert B Briggs
- Army-Baylor University, JBSA Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Bradley Tragord
- Army-Baylor University, JBSA Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, Texas
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Gallego-Sendarrubias GM, Voogt L, Arias-Buría JL, Braithwaite FA, Fernández-de-Las-Peñas C. Effects of previous experience with dry needling therapy on blinding effectiveness and pain outcomes in people with neck pain: A preliminary sham-controlled study. Musculoskelet Sci Pract 2022; 58:102515. [PMID: 35085999 DOI: 10.1016/j.msksp.2022.102515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Participants' previous experience with an intervention may be an important variable when conducting sham-controlled trials. OBJECTIVE This study explored if previous experience with dry needling (DN) influenced blinding effectiveness and pain outcomes, after the application of DN in patients with neck pain. DESIGN A preliminary randomized, sham-controlled study. METHODS Participants were randomized to receive a single session of real or sham DN. Previous experience with DN (yes/no) was recorded. Blinding effectiveness was assessed by asking participants to guess their group allocation (real/sham/not sure) 5 min post-intervention. Outcomes including pain intensity, pressure pain thresholds, and self-perceived improvement, were assessed by a blinded assessor at baseline, one- and seven-days post-intervention. RESULTS Of 50 patients recruited, 30 had previous experience and 20 did not. Fifty-seven percent (n = 17/30) with previous experience and 35% (n = 7/20) without experience correctly identified their group allocation, but this difference was not significant (χ2 = 2.333; P = 0.127). No interaction between previous experience and clinical outcomes were found, except that participants with previous experience receiving real DN showed greater improvements in pain during cervical rotation than those without previous experience at one (Δ -11.5 mm 95%CI -22.0 to -1.0 mm) and seven days (Δ -8.5 mm, -16.00 to -1.0 mm) post-intervention. CONCLUSIONS Participants with previous experience were 22% more accurate at identifying their group allocation than those without experience, but the difference was not significant. Previous experience did not influence most clinical outcomes, except for pain intensity after real DN. Future studies evaluating effects of previous experience of DN should include more detailed information of previous experience.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Lennard Voogt
- Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - José Luis Arias-Buría
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Spain; Cátedra Institucional en Docencia, Clínica e Investigación en Fisioterapia: Terapia Manual, Punción Seca y Ejercicio Terapéutico, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain.
| | | | - César Fernández-de-Las-Peñas
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Spain; Cátedra Institucional en Docencia, Clínica e Investigación en Fisioterapia: Terapia Manual, Punción Seca y Ejercicio Terapéutico, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Fernández-de-Las-Peñas C, Plaza-Manzano G, Sanchez-Infante J, Gómez-Chiguano GF, Cleland JA, Arias-Buría JL, Navarro-Santana MJ. The importance of the local twitch response during needling interventions in spinal pain associated with myofascial trigger points: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Acupunct Med 2021; 40:299-311. [PMID: 34894759 DOI: 10.1177/09645284211056346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the clinical effects of needling interventions eliciting local twitch responses (LTRs) versus needling without eliciting LTRs when applied to muscle trigger points (TrPs) associated with spinal pain of musculoskeletal origin. DATABASES AND DATA TREATMENT Electronic databases were searched for randomized or non-randomized clinical trials where one group received needling intervention where LTRs were elicited and was compared with another group receiving the same intervention without elicitation of LTRs in spinal pain disorders associated with TrPs. Outcomes included pain intensity, pain-related disability, and pressure pain thresholds. The risk of bias (RoB) was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool or ROBINS-I tool, methodological quality was assessed with the PEDro score, and quality of evidence was evaluated using the GRADE approach. RESULTS Six trials were included. The application of a needling intervention eliciting LTRs was associated with a significant reduction in pain intensity immediately after treatment (mean difference (MD): -2.03 points, 95% confidence interval (CI): -3.77 to -0.29; standardized MD (SMD): -1.35, 95% CI: -2.32 to -0.38, p = 0.02) when compared to the same needling intervention without elicitation of LTRs. No effect at short-term follow-up (MD: -0.20 points, 95% CI: -1.46 to 1.06, p = 0.75) was observed. No significant differences based on elicitation or non-elicitation of LTRs were found in related disability (SMD: -0.05, 95% CI: -0.41 to 0.30, p = 0.77) or pressure pain thresholds (MD: 23.39 kPa, 95% CI: -13.68 to 60.47, p = 0.22). DISCUSSION Low-level evidence suggests an immediate effect of obtaining LTRs during needling interventions on pain intensity, with no significant effects on related disability or pressure pain sensitivity in spinal pain disorders associated with muscle TrPs. REGISTRATION NUMBER OSF Registry-https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/5ZX9N.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- César Fernández-de-Las-Peñas
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (URJC), Alcorcón, Spain.,Cátedra Institucional en Docencia, Clínica e Investigación en Fisioterapia: Terapia Manual, Punción Seca y Ejercicio Terapéutico, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Spain
| | - Gustavo Plaza-Manzano
- Department of Radiology, Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jorge Sanchez-Infante
- Performance and Sport Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Toledo, Spain
| | - Guido F Gómez-Chiguano
- Department of Radiology, Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Clínica Dinamia Fisioterapia. Madrid, Spain
| | - Joshua A Cleland
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - José L Arias-Buría
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (URJC), Alcorcón, Spain.,Cátedra Institucional en Docencia, Clínica e Investigación en Fisioterapia: Terapia Manual, Punción Seca y Ejercicio Terapéutico, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Spain
| | - Marcos J Navarro-Santana
- Department of Radiology, Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Rehabilitación San Fernando, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Murillo C, Treleaven J, Cagnie B, Peral J, Falla D, Lluch E. Effects of dry needling of the obliquus capitis inferior on sensorimotor control and cervical mobility in people with neck pain: A double-blind, randomized sham-controlled trial. Braz J Phys Ther 2021; 25:826-836. [PMID: 34535409 PMCID: PMC8721073 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjpt.2021.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Impairments of sensorimotor control relating to head and eye movement control and postural stability are often present in people with neck pain. The upper cervical spine and particularly the obliquus capitis inferior (OCI) play an important proprioceptive role; and its impairment may alter cervical sensorimotor control. Dry needling (DN) is a valid technique to target the OCI. OBJECTIVES To investigate if a single DN session of the OCI muscle improves head and eye movement control-related outcomes, postural stability, and cervical mobility in people with neck pain. METHODS Forty people with neck pain were randomly assigned to receive a single session of DN or sham needling of the OCI. Cervical joint position error (JPE), cervical movement sense, standing balance and oculomotor control were examined at baseline, immediately post-intervention, and at one-week follow-up. Active cervical rotation range of motion and the flexion rotation test were used to examine the global and upper cervical rotation mobility, respectively. RESULTS Linear mixed-models revealed that the DN group showed a decrease of JPE immediately post-intervention compared to the sham group (mean difference [MD]= -0.93°; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -1.85, -0.02) which was maintained at one-week follow-up (MD= -1.64°; 95%CI: -2.85, -0.43). No effects on standing balance or cervical movement sense were observed in both groups. Upper cervical mobility showed an increase immediately after DN compared to the sham group (MD= 5.14°; 95%CI: 0.77, 9.75) which remained stable at one-week follow-up (MD= 6.98°; 95%CI: 1.31, 12.40). Both group showed an immediate increase in global cervical mobility (MD= -0.14°; 95%CI: -5.29, 4.89). CONCLUSION The results from the current study suggest that a single session of DN of the OCI reduces JPE deficits and increases upper cervical mobility in patients with neck pain. Future trials should examine if the addition of this technique to sensorimotor control training add further benefits in the management of neck pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Murillo
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Pain in Motion International Research Group, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Julia Treleaven
- Division of Physiotherapy, SHRS, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Barbara Cagnie
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Javier Peral
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Alcala, Madrid, Spain; Department of Physical Therapy, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Deborah Falla
- Center of Precision Rehabilitation for Spinal Pain, School of Sport, exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Enrique Lluch
- Pain in Motion International Research Group, Brussels, Belgium; Department of Physical Therapy, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Braithwaite FA, Walters JL, Moseley GL, Williams MT, McEvoy MP. A novel blinding protocol to test participant and therapist blinding during dry needling: a randomised controlled experiment. Physiotherapy 2021; 113:188-198. [PMID: 34579950 DOI: 10.1016/j.physio.2021.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Dry needling is widely used in physiotherapy. Lack of blinding in clinical trials means that dry needling effects and mechanisms remain unclear, with blinding issues accepted as an unavoidable barrier to better evidence. The authors aimed to overcome this barrier by designing a protocol to double-blind dry needling trials. DESIGN A prospectively registered randomised experiment tested a novel blinding protocol for blinding effectiveness. SETTING University physiotherapy clinic. PARTICIPANTS Therapists (n=15) and asymptomatic volunteers ('recipients') (n=45) were randomly allocated to real and/or sham interventions. INTERVENTIONS The protocol involved custom-made needles and cognitive and multisensory blinding techniques. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome was guesses about allocation. The a priori criterion for successful blinding was ≤50% correct guesses (random chance). Secondary analyses explored blinding patterns using blinding indices. RESULTS Correct guesses were not different from 50% for therapists [41% (95%CI 30 to 50), n=120 guesses] or recipients [49% (95%CI 38 to 60), n=90 guesses]. Blinding indices supported the primary result but revealed that recipients were better at detecting real dry needling than sham. CONCLUSION Both therapists and recipients were successfully blinded, which contrasts with the widely held assumption that double-blinding is impossible for needling interventions. The authors recommend that any future trials can, and therefore should, blind therapists. However, secondary analyses revealed that recipients receiving real dry needling were less blinded than sham recipients, which may still create bias in clinical trials and suggests further work is needed to improve recipient blinding. Nonetheless, the current findings offer an opportunity to gain better evidence concerning the effects and mechanisms of dry needling. STUDY REGISTRATION https://osf.io/rkzeb/.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Felicity A Braithwaite
- IIMPACT in Health, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide 5001, South Australia, Australia.
| | - Julie L Walters
- IIMPACT in Health, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide 5001, South Australia, Australia.
| | - G Lorimer Moseley
- IIMPACT in Health, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide 5001, South Australia, Australia.
| | - Marie T Williams
- IIMPACT in Health, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide 5001, South Australia, Australia.
| | - Maureen P McEvoy
- IIMPACT in Health, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide 5001, South Australia, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Braithwaite FA, Walters JL, Moseley GL, Williams MT, McEvoy MP. A collaborative experiential problem-solving approach to develop shams for complex physical interventions: a case study of dry needling. Physiotherapy 2021; 113:177-187. [PMID: 34563384 DOI: 10.1016/j.physio.2021.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Complex physical interventions are widely used in physiotherapy, despite doubts over the validity of clinical trial results due to lack of credible shams. Credible shams are critically needed, so too, therefore, is a process by which they can be developed. The authors used a novel methodology to develop and test blinding protocols for dry needling, a complex physical intervention for which blinding is particularly difficult. DESIGN The research design was a practical three-day workshop influenced by Participatory Action Research, which uses iteration and reflection to solve a problem. PARTICIPANTS Five multidisciplinary experts (researchers, clinicians, technician, magician) were invited. Healthy volunteers ('recipients', n=17) and accredited physiotherapists (n=6) were recruited to enable testing of blinding strategies. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Primary outcomes were expert opinion on the potential to blind recipients/therapists for (1) individual blinding strategies, and (2) entire blinding protocols. Secondary outcomes included recipient/therapist blinding effectiveness and acceptability. RESULTS Experts iteratively developed 11 blinding protocols involving 22 blinding strategies. Experts rated 18 of the blinding strategies to 'definitely have potential' and identified four categories: knowledge of the sham, clinical interaction, disinformation, and sensation. Recipient and therapist blinding became more successful as the protocols evolved. CONCLUSIONS Credible shams capable of simultaneous recipient and therapist blinding have been regarded to be impossible in dry needling. The preliminary success of the devised protocols suggest that our novel approach may be a crucial step in sham development. Improvements in expert rankings and blinding effectiveness as the protocols progressed support the value of this workshop approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Felicity A Braithwaite
- IIMPACT in Health, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide 5001, South Australia, Australia.
| | - Julie L Walters
- IIMPACT in Health, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide 5001, South Australia, Australia.
| | - G Lorimer Moseley
- IIMPACT in Health, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide 5001, South Australia, Australia.
| | - Marie T Williams
- IIMPACT in Health, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide 5001, South Australia, Australia.
| | - Maureen P McEvoy
- IIMPACT in Health, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide 5001, South Australia, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Lázaro-Navas I, Lorenzo-Sánchez-Aguilera C, Pecos-Martín D, Jiménez-Rejano JJ, Navarro-Santana MJ, Fernández-Carnero J, Gallego-Izquierdo T. Immediate Effects of Dry Needling on the Autonomic Nervous System and Mechanical Hyperalgesia: A Randomized Controlled Trial. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18116018. [PMID: 34205103 PMCID: PMC8199958 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18116018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dry needling (DN) is often used for the treatment of muscle pain among physiotherapists. However, little is known about the mechanisms of action by which its effects are generated. The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to determine if the use of DN in healthy subjects activates the sympathetic nervous system, thus resulting in a decrease in pain caused by stress. METHODS Sixty-five healthy volunteer subjects were recruited from the University of Alcala, Madrid, Spain, with an age of 27.78 (SD = 8.41) years. The participants were randomly assigned to participate in a group with deep DN in the adductor pollicis muscle or a placebo needling group. The autonomic nervous system was evaluated, in addition to local and remote mechanical hyperalgesia. RESULTS In a comparison of the moment at which the needling intervention was carried out with the baseline, the heart rate of the dry needling group significantly increased by 20.60% (SE = 2.88), whereas that of the placebo group increased by 5.33% (SE = 2.32) (p = 0.001, d = 1.02). The pressure pain threshold showed significant differences between both groups, being significantly higher in the needling group (adductor muscle p = 0.001; d = 0.85; anterior tibialis muscle p = 0.022, d = 0.58). CONCLUSIONS This work appears to indicate that dry needling produces an immediate activation in the sympathetic nervous system, improving local and distant mechanical hyperalgesia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irene Lázaro-Navas
- Department of Physical Therapy, University Hospital Ramón y Cajal, 28034 Madrid, Spain;
- University of Alcalá, Instituto de Fisioterapia y Dolor, 28805 Madrid, Spain; (C.L.-S.-A.); (D.P.-M.); (T.G.-I.)
| | | | - Daniel Pecos-Martín
- University of Alcalá, Instituto de Fisioterapia y Dolor, 28805 Madrid, Spain; (C.L.-S.-A.); (D.P.-M.); (T.G.-I.)
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Alcalá, 28805 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - Jose Jesús Jiménez-Rejano
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podology, University of Sevilla, 41009 Sevilla, Spain;
| | | | - Josué Fernández-Carnero
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Rey Juan Carlos University, 28922 Madrid, Spain
- Grupo Multidisciplinar de Investigación y Tratamiento del Dolor, Grupo de Excelencia Investigadora URJC-Banco de Santander, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, 28032 Madrid, Spain
- Paz Hospital Institute for Health Research, IdiPAZ, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Motion in Brains Research Group, Institute of Neuroscience and Sciences of the Movement (INCIMOV), Centro Superior de Estudios Universitarios La Salle, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28023 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-914-888-949
| | - Tomás Gallego-Izquierdo
- University of Alcalá, Instituto de Fisioterapia y Dolor, 28805 Madrid, Spain; (C.L.-S.-A.); (D.P.-M.); (T.G.-I.)
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Alcalá, 28805 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Freed B, Williams B, Situ X, Landsman V, Kim J, Moroz A, Bang H, Park JJ. Blinding, sham, and treatment effects in randomized controlled trials for back pain in 2000-2019: A review and meta-analytic approach. Clin Trials 2021; 18:361-370. [PMID: 33478258 PMCID: PMC8172416 DOI: 10.1177/1740774520984870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blinding aims to minimize biases from what participants and investigators know or believe. Randomized controlled trials, despite being the gold standard to evaluate treatment effect, do not generally assess the success of blinding. We investigated the extent of blinding in back pain trials and the associations between participant guesses and treatment effects. METHODS We did a review with PubMed/OvidMedline, 2000-2019. Eligibility criteria were back pain trials with data available on treatment effect and participants' guess of treatment. For blinding, blinding index was used as chance-corrected measure of excessive correct guess (0 for random guess). For treatment effects, within- or between-arm effect sizes were used. Analyses of investigators' guess/blinding or by treatment modality were performed exploratorily. RESULTS Forty trials (3899 participants) were included. Active and sham treatment groups had mean blinding index of 0.26 (95% confidence interval: 0.12, 0.41) and 0.01 (-0.11, 0.14), respectively, meaning 26% of participants in active treatment believed they received active treatment, whereas only 1% in sham believed they received sham treatment, beyond chance, that is, random guess. A greater belief of receiving active treatment was associated with a larger within-arm effect size in both arms, and ideal blinding (namely, "random guess," and "wishful thinking" that signifies both groups believing they received active treatment) showed smaller effect sizes, with correlation of effect size and summary blinding indexes of 0.35 (p = 0.028) for between-arm comparison. We observed uniformly large sham treatment effects for all modalities, and larger correlation for investigator's (un)blinding, 0.53 (p = 0.046). CONCLUSION Participants in active treatments in back pain trials guessed treatment identity more correctly, while those in sham treatments tended to display successful blinding. Excessive correct guesses (that could reflect weaker blinding and/or noticeable effects) by participants and investigators demonstrated larger effect sizes. Blinding and sham treatment effects on back pain need due consideration in individual trials and meta-analyses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brian Freed
- Department of Pain Management, Summit Medical Group, Berkeley Heights, NJ, USA
| | - Brian Williams
- Departments of Physiatry and Orthopedic Surgery, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - Xiaolu Situ
- Graduate Group of Biostatistics, Department of Statistics, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Victoria Landsman
- Institute for Work and Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Biostatistics, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jeehyoung Kim
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Seoul Sacred Heart General Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Alex Moroz
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Heejung Bang
- Graduate Group of Biostatistics, Department of Statistics, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
- Division of Biostatistics, Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
- Center for Healthcare Policy and Research & Clinical and Translational Science Center Davis School of Medicine, University of California, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Jongbae J Park
- Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Pourahmadi M, Dommerholt J, Fernández-de-Las-Peñas C, Koes BW, Mohseni-Bandpei MA, Mansournia MA, Delavari S, Keshtkar A, Bahramian M. Dry Needling for the Treatment of Tension-Type, Cervicogenic, or Migraine Headaches: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Phys Ther 2021; 101:6145044. [PMID: 33609358 DOI: 10.1093/ptj/pzab068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Dry needling is a treatment technique used by clinicians to relieve symptoms in patients with tension-type headache (TTH), cervicogenic headache (CGH), or migraine. This systematic review's main objective was to assess the effectiveness of dry needling on headache pain intensity and related disability in patients with TTH, CGH, or migraine. METHODS Medline/PubMed, Scopus, Embase, PEDro, Web of Science, Ovid, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database/EBSCO, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Clinical Trials, Google Scholar, and trial registries were searched until April 1, 2020, along with reference lists of eligible studies and related reviews. Randomized clinical trials or observational studies that compared the effectiveness of dry needling with any other interventions were eligible for inclusion. Three reviewers independently selected studies, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed to produce pooled-effect estimates (Morris dppc2) and their respective CIs. RESULTS Of 2715 identified studies, 11 randomized clinical trials were eligible for qualitative synthesis and 9 for meta-analysis. Only 4 trials were of high quality. Very low-quality evidence suggested that dry needling is not statistically better than other interventions for improving headache pain intensity in the short term in patients with TTH (SMD -1.27, 95% CI = -3.56 to 1.03, n = 230), CGH (SMD -0.41, 95% CI = -4.69 to 3.87, n = 104), or mixed headache (TTH and migraine; SMD 0.03; 95% CI = -0.42 to 0.48, n = 90). Dry needling provided significantly greater improvement in related disability in the short term in patients with TTH (SMD -2.28, 95% CI = -2.66 to -1.91, n = 160) and CGH (SMD -0.72, 95% CI = -1.09 to -0.34, n = 144). The synthesis of results showed that dry needling could significantly improve headache frequency, health-related quality of life, trigger point tenderness, and cervical range of motion in TTH and CGH. CONCLUSIONS Dry needling produces similar effects to other interventions for short-term headache pain relief, whereas dry needling seems to be better than other therapies for improvement in related disability in the short term. IMPACT Although further high-methodological quality studies are warranted to provide a more robust conclusion, our systematic review suggested that for every 1 or 2 patients with TTH treated by dry needling, 1 patient will likely show decreased headache intensity (number needed to treat [NNT] = 2; large effect) and improved related disability (NNT = 1; very large effect). In CGH, for every 3 or 4 patients treated by dry needling, 1 patient will likely exhibit decreased headache intensity (NNT = 4; small effect) and improved related disability (NNT = 3; medium effect).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammadreza Pourahmadi
- Rehabilitation Research Center, Department of Physical Therapy, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jan Dommerholt
- Bethesda Physiocare, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.,Myopain Seminars, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.,Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - César Fernández-de-Las-Peñas
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain.,Cátedra Institucional en Docencia, Clínica e Investigación en Fisioterapia: Terapia Manual, Punción Seca y Ejercicio Terapéutico, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Bart Willem Koes
- Department of General Practice, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.,Center for Muscle and Joint Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Mohammad Ali Mohseni-Bandpei
- Pediatric Neurorehabilitation Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,University Institute of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Mohammad Ali Mansournia
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Sports Medicine Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Somayeh Delavari
- Center for Educational Research in Medical Sciences (CERMS), Department of Medical Education, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbasali Keshtkar
- Department of Health Sciences Education Development, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Sánchez-Infante J, Bravo-Sánchez A, Jiménez F, Abián-Vicén J. Effects of Dry Needling on Muscle Stiffness in Latent Myofascial Trigger Points: A Randomized Controlled Trial. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2021; 22:817-825. [PMID: 33636373 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2021.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of dry needling (DN) in upper trapezius latent trigger points (LTrPs) on muscle stiffness. A total of 51 recreational physically active subjects with LTrPs in the upper trapezius volunteered to participate and were randomly divided into a DN-group (n = 27) and a sham-DN group (n = 24). Volunteers received 1-session of DN or placebo treatment. Muscle stiffness, measured with strain and shear-wave elastography, pressure pain threshold (PPT), post-needling soreness, and muscle thickness were evaluated before treatment, and at 30-min, 24-hours, and 72-hours follow-up after treatment. The DN-group showed lower values from baseline for muscle stiffness measured with shear-wave elastrography at 24-hours (from 44.44 ± 15.97 to 35.78 ± 11.65 kpa; P < .01) and at 72-hours (35.04 ± 12.61 kpa; P < .01) and with strain elastography at 72-hours (from 1.75 ± 0.50 to 1.36 ± 0.40 AU; P < .01). The DN-group showed higher values of PPT than the sham-DN group at 72-hours (4.23 ± 0.75 vs. 5.19 ± 1.16 kg/cm2; P < .05). There was a progressive decrease in post-needling soreness compared to pain during needling of 33.13 ± 21.31% at 30-min, 80.92 ± 10.06% at 24-hours, and a total decrease in post-needling soreness in all participants at 72-hours. DN therapy is effective in reducing short-term muscle stiffness and increasing the PPT in volunteers with LTrPs in the upper trapezius after a treatment session. PERSPECTIVE: This study found that one session of DN intervention in latent trigger points of the upper trapezius muscle reduced muscle stiffness and the pressure pain threshold for the dry needling group compared to the sham dry needling group.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Sánchez-Infante
- Performance and Sport Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Toledo, Spain; Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Salud, Castilla La Mancha, Toledo, Spain
| | - Alfredo Bravo-Sánchez
- Performance and Sport Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Toledo, Spain
| | - Fernando Jiménez
- Performance and Sport Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Toledo, Spain
| | - Javier Abián-Vicén
- Performance and Sport Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Toledo, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Navarro-Santana MJ, Gómez-Chiguano GF, Cleland JA, Arias-Buría JL, Fernández-de-Las-Peñas C, Plaza-Manzano G. Effects of Trigger Point Dry Needling for Nontraumatic Shoulder Pain of Musculoskeletal Origin: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Phys Ther 2021; 101:6042194. [PMID: 33340405 DOI: 10.1093/ptj/pzaa216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of trigger point (TrP) dry needling alone or as an adjunct to other interventions on pain intensity and related disability in nontraumatic shoulder pain. METHODS Ten databases were searched from inception to January 2020 for randomized clinical trials in which at least 1 group received TrP dry needling for shoulder pain of musculoskeletal origin with outcomes collected on pain intensity and related disability. Data extraction including participant and therapist details, interventions, blinding strategy, blinding assessment outcomes, and results were extracted by 2 reviewers. The risk of bias (Cochrane Risk of Bias, Cochrane Guidelines), methodological quality (Physiotherapy Evidence Database score), and evidence level (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach) were assessed. The search identified 551 publications with 6 trials eligible for inclusion. RESULTS There was moderate-quality evidence that TrP dry needling reduces shoulder pain intensity with a small effect (mean difference = -0.49 points, 95% CI = -0.84 to -0.13; standardized mean difference = -0.25, 95% CI = -0.42 to -0.09) and low-quality evidence that TrP dry needling improves related disability with a large effect (mean difference = -9.99 points, 95% CI -15.97 to -4.01; standardized mean difference = -1.14, 95% CI -1.81 to -0.47) compared with a comparison group. The effects on pain were only found at short term. The Cochrane Risk of Bias was generally low, but the heterogenicity of the results downgraded the evidence level. CONCLUSION Moderate- to low-quality evidence suggests positive effects of TrP dry needling for pain intensity (small effect) and pain-related disability (large effect) in nontraumatic shoulder pain of musculoskeletal origin, mostly at short term. Future clinical trials investigating long-term effects are needed. IMPACT Dry needling is commonly used for the management of musculoskeletal pain. This is the first meta-analysis to examine the effects of dry needling on nontraumatic shoulder pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcos J Navarro-Santana
- Department of Radiology, Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Rehabilitación San Fernando, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Joshua A Cleland
- Doctor of Physical Therapy Program, Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Physical Therapist, Rehabilitation Services, Concord Hospital, Concord, New Hampshire, USA.,Faculty, Manual Therapy Fellowship Program, Regis University, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Jose L Arias-Buría
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (URJC), Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain.,Cátedra Institucional en Docencia, Clínica e Investigación en Fisioterapia: Terapia Manual, Punción Seca y Ejercicio Terapéutico, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - César Fernández-de-Las-Peñas
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (URJC), Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain.,Cátedra Institucional en Docencia, Clínica e Investigación en Fisioterapia: Terapia Manual, Punción Seca y Ejercicio Terapéutico, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gustavo Plaza-Manzano
- Department of Radiology, Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Fernández-de-Las-Peñas C, Pérez-Bellmunt A, Llurda-Almuzara L, Plaza-Manzano G, De-la-Llave-Rincón AI, Navarro-Santana MJ. Is Dry Needling Effective for the Management of Spasticity, Pain, and Motor Function in Post-Stroke Patients? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. PAIN MEDICINE 2021; 22:131-141. [PMID: 33338222 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnaa392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effects of muscle dry needling alone or combined with other interventions on post-stroke spasticity (muscle tone), related pain, motor function, and pressure sensitivity. DATABASES AND DATA TREATMENT Electronic databases were searched for randomized controlled trials including post-stroke patients where at least one group received dry needling and outcomes were collected on spasticity and related pain. Secondary outcomes included motor function and pressure pain sensitivity. Data were extracted by two reviewers. The risk of bias was assessed with the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool, methodological quality was assessed with the Physiotherapy Evidence Database score, and the quality of evidence was assessed by the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach. Between-groups mean differences (MDs) and standardized mean differences (SMDs) were calculated. RESULTS Seven studies (three within the lower extremity, four in the upper extremity) were included. The meta-analysis found significantly large effect sizes of dry needling for reducing spasticity (SMD: -1.01, 95%confidence interval [CI] -1.68 to -0.34), post-stroke pain (SMD -1.01, 95%CI -1.73 to -0.30), and pressure pain sensitivity (SMD 1.21, 95% CI: 0.62 to 1.80) as compared with a comparative group at short-term follow-up. The effect on spasticity was found mainly in the lower extremity (MD -1.05, 95% CI: -1.32 to -0.78) at short-term follow-up. No effect on spasticity was seen at 4 weeks. No significant effect on motor function (SMD 0.16, 95% CI: -0.13 to 0.44) was observed. The risk of bias was generally low, but the imprecision of the results downgraded the level of evidence. CONCLUSION Moderate evidence suggests a positive effect of dry needling on spasticity (muscle tone) in the lower extremity in post-stroke patients. The effects on related pain and motor function are inconclusive.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- César Fernández-de-Las-Peñas
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (URJC), Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain.,Cátedra Institucional en Docencia, Clínica e Investigación en Fisioterapia: Terapia Manual, Punción Seca y Ejercicio Terapéutico, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Gustavo Plaza-Manzano
- Department of Radiology, Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana I De-la-Llave-Rincón
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (URJC), Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain.,Cátedra Institucional en Docencia, Clínica e Investigación en Fisioterapia: Terapia Manual, Punción Seca y Ejercicio Terapéutico, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marcos J Navarro-Santana
- Department of Radiology, Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Martín-Corrales C, Bautista IV, Méndez-Mera JE, Fernández-Matías R, Achalandabaso-Ochoa A, Gallego-Izquierdo T, Nuñez-Nagy S, Pecos-Martín D. Benefits of Adding Gluteal Dry Needling to a Four-Week Physical Exercise Program in a Chronic Low Back Pain Population. A Randomized Clinical Trial. PAIN MEDICINE 2020; 21:2948-2957. [PMID: 33580803 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnaa279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine if adding dry needling to a four-week exercise program has an additional benefit compared with adding sham dry needling to the same exercise program in subjects with chronic low back pain. DESIGN Randomized clinical trial. SETTING Physiotherapy and Pain Clinic of Alcala University. SUBJECTS Forty-six patients with chronic low back pain. METHODS Subjects were randomized to two groups: the dry needling group (N = 23) or sham dry needling group (N = 23). Both groups received a four-week exercise program and before the exercise started a session of dry needling or sham dry needling. Pain (visual analog scale), disability (Roland-Morris Questionnaire), and fear avoidance beliefs (Fear Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire) were assessed at baseline, after treatment, and at three-month follow-up. Pressure pain thresholds (algometer) were measured at baseline, after the dry needling or the sham dry needling, and after treatment. RESULTS Both groups showed significant improvements for all variables. In the between-group comparison, the dry needling group improved significantly in pain at three-month follow-up and pressure pain thresholds at the end of treatment for all measures, and at three-month follow-up there was no improvement in gluteus medium. CONCLUSIONS In chronic low back patients, adding dry needling to a four-week exercise program has an additional benefit in pain and sensitivity compared with adding sham dry needling to the same exercise program.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Tomás Gallego-Izquierdo
- Research Institute of Physiotherapy and Pain. Universidad de Alcalá, Alcalá, Spain.,Department of Physical Therapy and Nursing, Universidad de Alcalá, Alcalá, Spain.,Physiotherapy and Pain Group, Universidad de Alcalá, Alcalá, Spain
| | - Susana Nuñez-Nagy
- Department of Physical Therapy and Nursing, Universidad de Alcalá, Alcalá, Spain
| | - Daniel Pecos-Martín
- Research Institute of Physiotherapy and Pain. Universidad de Alcalá, Alcalá, Spain.,Department of Physical Therapy and Nursing, Universidad de Alcalá, Alcalá, Spain.,Physiotherapy and Pain Group, Universidad de Alcalá, Alcalá, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
The effect of dry needling on gastrocnemius muscle stiffness and strength in participants with latent trigger points. J Electromyogr Kinesiol 2020; 55:102479. [PMID: 33075711 DOI: 10.1016/j.jelekin.2020.102479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Abnormal muscle stiffness is a potential complication after injury and identifying interventions that modify muscle stiffness may be useful to promote recovery. The purpose of this study was to identify the short-term effects of dry needling (DN) on resting and contracted gastrocnemius muscle stiffness and strength of the triceps surae in individuals with latent myofascial trigger points (MTrPs). In this randomized controlled trial, 52 individuals received two DN treatment sessions to latent MTrPs and 50 individuals received two sham needling sessions. Resting and contracted muscle stiffness were assessed both at the treatment site and a standardized central site in the medial gastrocnemius head immediately post-treatment and one week after the last session. There were significant group by time interactions for resting muscle stiffness at the site of the MTrP (p = .03), but not at the central site (p = .29). Post-needling between group comparison indicated that the DN group had significantly lower resting muscle stiffness at the site of the MTrP than the sham group after adjusting for baseline differences. There were no significant between group differences in contracted muscle stiffness or muscle strength. Identifying strategies that can reduce aberrant muscle stiffness may help to guide management of individuals with neuromuscular pain-related conditions. Level of evidence: Therapy, level 2.
Collapse
|
28
|
Núñez-Cortés R, Cruz-Montecinos C, Latorre-García R, Pérez-Alenda S, Torres-Castro R. Effectiveness of Dry Needling in the Management of Spasticity in Patients Post Stroke. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2020; 29:105236. [PMID: 33066920 DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2020.105236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the effectiveness of the dry needling technique (DNT) in the treatment of spasticity for individuals with stroke. DESIGN We reviewed the Embase, Pubmed/MEDLINE, Web of Science and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) databases. We also performed a manual search of the references that are included in the selected articles. Studies included were: i) randomized clinical trials (RCTs); ii) involving patients with a diagnosis of stroke; and iii) using DNT alone or in a multimodal treatment. Muscular spasticity was the primary outcome of the study. The additional outcomes included were: pressure pain sensitivity, range of motion and perception of pain. The analysis of the certainty of the evidence was analyzed using GRADE. The risk of bias of the included studies was assessed with the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for Randomized Controlled Trials. RESULTS A total of six RCTs with 221 patients were included in this systematic review, where a significant decrease in spasticity was observed in most of the muscles evaluated, though the certainty of the evidence was low. The effects were only evaluated in the short term in all included studies and the sample size was small. CONCLUSION These results should be taken with caution because the included studies are few in number and have different comparators. More RCTs are needed to cover aspects of biases found in the literature, in particular the blinding of participants and personnel.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Núñez-Cortés
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile.; Hospital Clínico La Florida, Santiago, Chile
| | - Carlos Cruz-Montecinos
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile..
| | - Rodrigo Latorre-García
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Sofía Pérez-Alenda
- Department of Physiotherapy, Physiotherapy in Motion Multispeciality Research Group (PTinMOTION), University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Rodrigo Torres-Castro
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Navarro-Santana MJ, Sanchez-Infante J, Fernández-de-las-Peñas C, Cleland JA, Martín-Casas P, Plaza-Manzano G. Effectiveness of Dry Needling for Myofascial Trigger Points Associated with Neck Pain Symptoms: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Clin Med 2020; 9:E3300. [PMID: 33066556 PMCID: PMC7602246 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9103300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Our aim was to evaluate the effect of dry needling alone as compared to sham needling, no intervention, or other physical interventions applied over trigger points (TrPs) related with neck pain symptoms. Randomized controlled trials including one group receiving dry needling for TrPs associated with neck pain were identified in electronic databases. Outcomes included pain intensity, pain-related disability, pressure pain thresholds, and cervical range of motion. The Cochrane risk of bias tool and the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) score were used to assessed risk of bias (RoB) and methodological quality of the trials. The quality of evidence was assessed by using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. Between-groups mean differences (MD) and standardized mean differences (SMD) were calculated (3) Twenty-eight trials were finally included. Dry needling reduced pain immediately after (MD -1.53, 95% CI -2.29 to -0.76) and at short-term (MD -2.31, 95% CI -3.64 to -0.99) when compared with sham/placebo/waiting list/other form of dry needling and, also, at short-term (MD -0.51, 95% CI -0.95 to -0.06) compared with manual therapy. No differences in comparison with other physical therapy interventions were observed. An effect on pain-related disability at the short-term was found when comparing dry needing with sham/placebo/waiting list/other form of dry needling (SMD -0.87, 95% CI -1.60 to -0.14) but not with manual therapy or other interventions. Dry needling was effective for improving pressure pain thresholds immediately after the intervention (MD 55.48 kPa, 95% CI 27.03 to 83.93). No effect on cervical range of motion of dry needling against either comparative group was found. No between-treatment effect was observed in any outcome at mid-term. Low to moderate evidence suggests that dry needling can be effective for improving pain intensity and pain-related disability in individuals with neck pain symptoms associated with TrPs at the short-term. No significant effects on pressure pain sensitivity or cervical range of motion were observed. Registration number: OSF Registry-https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/P2UWD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcos J. Navarro-Santana
- Department of Radiology, Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (M.J.N.-S.); (P.M.-C.); (G.P.-M.)
- Department of Physical Therapy, Rehabilitación San Fernando, 28807 Madrid, Spain
| | - Jorge Sanchez-Infante
- Performance and Sport Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Castilla-La Mancha, 45003 Toledo, Spain;
| | - César Fernández-de-las-Peñas
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (URJC), Alcorcón, 28922 Madrid, Spain
- Cátedra Institucional en Docencia, Clínica e Investigación en Fisioterapia: Terapia Manual, Punción Seca y Ejercicio Terapéutico, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, 28922 Madrid, Spain
| | - Joshua A. Cleland
- Doctor of Physical Therapy Program, Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA;
| | - Patricia Martín-Casas
- Department of Radiology, Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (M.J.N.-S.); (P.M.-C.); (G.P.-M.)
| | - Gustavo Plaza-Manzano
- Department of Radiology, Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (M.J.N.-S.); (P.M.-C.); (G.P.-M.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Valencia-Chulián R, Heredia-Rizo AM, Moral-Munoz JA, Lucena-Anton D, Luque-Moreno C. Dry needling for the management of spasticity, pain, and range of movement in adults after stroke: A systematic review. Complement Ther Med 2020; 52:102515. [PMID: 32951759 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2020.102515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To summarise the available evidence about the effectiveness of deep dry needling (DN) on spasticity, pain-related outcomes, and range-of-movement (ROM) in adults after stroke. DESIGN A computer search of Web of Science, Scopus, Medline, Cochrane Library, Cinahl, and Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) was conducted. A hand search of the reference lists of the selected studies and other relevant publications was also undertaken. Studies were assessed by two independent reviewers and included if they complied with the following criteria: (1) participants were adults after a stroke, (2) use of DN alone or within a multimodal approach, compared to no intervention or other treatments; (3) assessment of spasticity, pain, or joint ROM as a primary or secondary outcome. We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs), case series, and case reports. Data were extracted using a standardised protocol. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed with the Checklist for Measuring quality. RESULTS A total of sixteen studies, 7 of which were RCTs, were selected. All studies generally reported an improvement of spasticity level, pain intensity, and ROM after the use of DN, alone or combined with other interventions, in stroke survivors. CONCLUSION The management of adults after stroke with DN may impact positively on spasticity, pain, and ROM. However, there was significant heterogeneity across trials in terms of sample size, control groups, treated muscles, and outcome measures, and a meta-analysis was not feasible. Further research should include proper blinding, sham placebo DN as control intervention, and investigate long-term effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Valencia-Chulián
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy Faculty of Nursing and Physiotherapy, University of Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Alberto M Heredia-Rizo
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podiatry, University of Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain.
| | - Jose A Moral-Munoz
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy Faculty of Nursing and Physiotherapy, University of Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain; Institute of Research and Innovation in Biomedical Sciences of the Province of Cádiz (INiBICA), University of Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain
| | - David Lucena-Anton
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy Faculty of Nursing and Physiotherapy, University of Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Carlos Luque-Moreno
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy Faculty of Nursing and Physiotherapy, University of Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Effects of Trigger Point Dry Needling for the Management of Knee Pain Syndromes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9072044. [PMID: 32610659 PMCID: PMC7409136 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9072044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: To evaluate the effect of trigger point dry needling alone or as an adjunct with other interventions on pain and related disability in people with knee pain. Methods: Several electronic databases were searched for randomized controlled trials where at least one group received dry needling for knee pain. Studies had to include human subjects and collect outcomes on pain and pain-related disability in musculoskeletal knee pain. Data were extracted by two reviewers. The risk of bias was assessed by the Cochrane Guidelines, methodological quality was assessed with the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) score, and the quality of evidence by using the GRADE approach. Standardized mean differences (SMD) were calculated. Results: Ten studies (six patellofemoral pain, two knee osteoarthritis, two post-surgery knee pain) were included. The meta-analysis found moderate effect sizes of dry needling for reducing pain (SMD −0.53, 95% CI −0.87 to −0.19) and improving related disability (SMD −0.58, 95% CI −1.08 to −0.09) as compared to a comparison group at short-term. The main effect was observed for patellofemoral pain (SMD −0.64, 95% CI −1.17 to −0.11). No significant effects were observed at mid- or long-term follow-ups. The risk of bias was generally low, but the heterogenicity and the imprecision of the results downgraded the level of evidence. Conclusion: Low to moderate evidence suggests a positive effect of trigger point dry needling on pain and related disability in patellofemoral pain, but not knee osteoarthritis or post-surgery knee pain, at short-term. More high-quality trials investigating long-term effects are clearly needed.
Collapse
|
32
|
Navarro-Santana MJ, Sanchez-Infante J, Gómez-Chiguano GF, Cleland JA, López-de-Uralde-Villanueva I, Fernández-de-Las-Peñas C, Plaza-Manzano G. Effects of trigger point dry needling on lateral epicondylalgia of musculoskeletal origin: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Rehabil 2020; 34:1327-1340. [PMID: 32576044 DOI: 10.1177/0269215520937468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This meta-analysis evaluated the effect of dry needling alone or combined with other treatment interventions on pain, related-disability, pressure pain sensitivity, and strength in people with lateral epicondylalgia of musculoskeletal origin. DATA SOURCES MEDLINE, CINAHL, PubMed, PEDro, Cochrane Library, SCOPUS and Web of Science databases from their inception to 5 April 2020. REVIEW METHODS Randomized controlled trials collecting outcomes on pain, related-disability, pressure pain thresholds, or strength where one group received dry needling for lateral epicondylalgia of musculoskeletal origin. The risk of bias was assessed by the Cochrane Guidelines, methodological quality was assessed with the PEDro score, and the quality of evidence by using the GRADE approach. RESULTS Seven studies including 320 patients with lateral epicondylalgia were included. The meta-analysis found that dry needling reduced pain intensity (SMD ‒1.13, 95%CI ‒1.64 to ‒0.62) and related-disability (SMD ‒2.17, 95%CI ‒3.34 to ‒1.01) with large effect sizes compared to a comparative group. Dry needling also increased pressure pain thresholds with a large effect size (SMD 0.98, 95%CI 0.30 to 1.67) and grip strength with a small size effect (SMD 0.48, 95%CI 0.16 to 0.81) when compared to a comparative group. The most significant effect was at short-term. The risk of bias was generally low, but the heterogenicity of the results downgraded the evidence level. CONCLUSION Low to moderate evidence suggests a positive effect of dry needling for pain, pain-related disability, pressure pain sensitivity and strength at short-term in patients with lateral epicondylalgia of musculoskeletal origin. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapy, level 1a. REGISTRATION NUMBER OSF Registry - https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/ZY3E8.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcos J Navarro-Santana
- Department of Radiology, Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Rehabilitación San Fernando, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jorge Sanchez-Infante
- Performance and sport rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of sport sciences, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Toledo, Castilla-La Mancha, Spain
| | | | - Joshua A Cleland
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Mass, USA
| | | | - César Fernández-de-Las-Peñas
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (URJC), Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain.,Cátedra Institucional en Docencia, Clínica e Investigación en Fisioterapia: Terapia Manual, Punción Seca y Ejercicio Terapéutico, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gustavo Plaza-Manzano
- Department of Radiology, Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Braithwaite FA, Walters JL, Moseley GL, Williams MT, McEvoy MP. Towards more credible shams for physical interventions: A Delphi survey. Clin Trials 2020; 17:295-305. [PMID: 32153205 DOI: 10.1177/1740774520910365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS In clinical trials of physical interventions, participant blinding is often poorly addressed and therapist blinding routinely omitted. This situation presents a substantial barrier to moving the field forward. Improving the success of blinding will be a vital step towards determining the true mechanisms of physical interventions. We used a Delphi approach to identify important elements of shams for physical interventions to maximise the likelihood of participant and therapist blinding in clinical trials. METHODS Two expert groups were recruited: (1) experts in research methodology and (2) experts in deceptive and/or hypnotic techniques including magic. Magicians were included because they were considered a potentially rich source of innovation for developing credible shams due to their unique skills in altering perceptions and beliefs. Three rounds of survey were conducted, commencing with an open-ended question. Responses were converted to single 'items', which participants rated in the following two rounds using a 9-point Likert scale, categorised as 'Not important' (0-3), 'Depends' (4-6) and 'Essential' (7-9). Consensus was pre-defined as ≥80% agreement within a 3-point category. RESULTS Thirty-eight experts agreed to participate (research methodology: n = 22; deceptive and/or hypnotic techniques: n = 16), and 30 experts responded to at least one round (research methodology: n = 19; deceptive and/or hypnotic techniques: n = 11). Of 79 items, five reached consensus in the 'Essential' category in both groups, which related to beliefs of participants (n = 3 items), interactions with researchers (n = 1 item) and standardisation of clinical assessments (n = 1 item). Thirteen additional items reached consensus in the 'Essential' category in one group. Experts in research methodology had one additional item reach consensus, related to authentic delivery of study information. The remaining 12 additional items that reached consensus in the deceptive and/or hypnotic techniques group related mainly to therapist attitude and behaviour and the clinical interaction. CONCLUSION Experts agreed that, for shams to be believable, consideration of cognitive influences is essential. Contrary to the focus of previous shams for physical interventions, replicating the tactile sensation of the active treatment was not considered an essential part of sham development. Therefore, when designing sham-controlled clinical trials, researchers should carefully consider the cognitive credibility of the entire intervention experience, and not just the indistinguishability of the sham intervention itself. The findings provide new guidance to researchers on important contributors to blinding in physical intervention trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Julie L Walters
- School of Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - G Lorimer Moseley
- School of Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Marie T Williams
- School of Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Maureen P McEvoy
- School of Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Towards more homogenous and rigorous methods in sham-controlled dry needling trials: two Delphi surveys. Physiotherapy 2020; 106:12-23. [DOI: 10.1016/j.physio.2019.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
|