Research Paper: The Efficacy of Superficial and Deep Dry Needling Techniques on Functional Parameters in Subjects With Upper Trapezius Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Background: Few studies have compared superficial and deep dry needling techniques in treatment of trigger points in patients with Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS).  Objectives: To compare the effects of Superficial Dry Needling (SDN) and Deep Dry Needling (DDN) on Range of Motion (ROM) and functional ability in subjects with upper trapezius MPS. Materials & Methods: This is a quasi-experimental study conducted on 50 patients with MPS of upper trapezius muscle. They were randomly divided into two groups of 25 treated with SDN and DDN. They were examined in Physiotherapy Clinic of Iran University of Medical Sciences during 2016-2017. Neck disability and cervical ROM were measured using Neck Disability Index (NDI) instrument a goniometer, respectively. The subjects were evaluated before the treatment, after the treatment, and 7-and 15-day follow-up periods. The Independent t-test and ANOVA were used to compare the two groups at different times of evaluation. Results: There was no significant difference between SDN and DDN groups in terms of age (P=0.41), weight (P=0.99), and height (P=0.51). Interaction effect between group and time on the lateral cervical ROM over the unaffected side and NDI were significant (P<0.001). The simple main effect of time and group on NDI and ROM were also significant (P<0.001). Conclusion: The changes in the ROM and NDI were observed over time when SDN and DDN techniques were used, but these changes were more significant in patients treated with DDN, especially in the follow-up periods.