TrapezitisNCT07731763
Effects of Myofascial Release Versus Dry Cupping on Pain, Muscle Length, and Functional Disability in IT Professionals With Trapezitis.
A study testing Myofascial Release and Dry Cupping in people with Trapezitis, run by Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences at 1 site in Pakistan.
Trial summary
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of two physiotherapy techniques-Myofascial Release and Dry Cupping-in improving pain, muscle length, and functional disability in IT professionals with trapezitis. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 25 to 65 years
- Conditions the study is for
- Trapezitis
- What is being tested?
- Myofascial Release and Dry Cupping
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 52 participants
- Where
- 1 sitePakistan
- Study dates
- 29 Jul 2026to 30 Sep 2026
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- Not yet: the study is under way
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 25 to 65 years
- All sexes
- No healthy volunteers
- Adult, Older adult
Who may be able to join
- IT professionals aged 20-65 years diagnosed with trapezitis (upper trapezius myofascial pain) characterized by pain and tenderness in the upper trapezius region for at least 4 weeks. Participants must have a pain intensity of ≥3 on the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), exhibit restricted cervical range of motion or reduced upper trapezius muscle length as assessed using a goniometer. Functional disability must be present as indicated by a Neck Disability Index (NDI) score within the mild to moderate range (e.g., 10-28%), and be engaged in computer-based work for a minimum of 6 hours per day. Both male and female participants who provide informed consent will be included.
Who cannot join
- Individuals with a history of cervical spine pathology including disc herniation, radiculopathy, or spondylosis with neurological involvement; previous trauma or surgery involving the cervical spine, shoulder girdle, or upper thoracic region; presence of symptomatic or inflammatory musculoskeletal conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, fibromyalgia); neurological disorders affecting the upper limb or cervical region (e.g., peripheral neuropathy, myelopathy); skin conditions or contraindications to cupping therapy (e.g., open wounds, active infections, eczema, psoriasis); bleeding disorders or current anticoagulant therapy; pregnancy; and inability to comply with the treatment protocol or follow-up assessments will be excluded.
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country. Contact the study team or a site near you to ask about taking part.
Pakistan1 site
Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences
Lahore, Punjab Province, 53400
About this study
Official title: "Effects of Myofascial Release Versus Dry Cupping on Pain, Muscle Length, and Functional Disability in IT Professionals With Trapezitis"
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of two physiotherapy techniques-Myofascial Release and Dry Cupping-in improving pain, muscle length, and functional disability in IT professionals with trapezitis. Trapezitis is a common musculoskeletal condition caused by prolonged static postures and repetitive strain, leading to neck and shoulder pain, reduced muscle flexibility, and functional limitations that affect daily activities and work performance. Although both myofascial release and dry cupping are commonly used in clinical practice, limited evidence exists comparing their effectiveness in this population. Participants diagnosed with trapezitis will be randomized into two groups: Group 1 will receive myofascial release along with routine physical therapy, and Group 2 will receive dry cupping therapy along with routine physical therapy. The interventions will be administered multiple times per week over a specified duration, and participants will be assessed before and after treatment. Outcome measures will include pain intensity using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), muscle length of the upper trapezius, and functional disability using the Neck Disability Index (NDI). The study will compare the effects of both interventions, focusing on pain reduction, improvement in muscle flexibility, and enhancement of functional ability. The findings may help in identifying the more effective treatment approach and contribute to improved management strategies for trapezitis among IT professionals.
Read the detailed description
Trapezitis is a prevalent musculoskeletal disorder, particularly among IT professionals who are exposed to prolonged computer use, poor ergonomics, and sustained static postures. It primarily affects the upper trapezius muscle and is characterized by pain, muscle tightness, reduced flexibility, and functional disability. These symptoms can interfere with occupational performance, decrease productivity, and negatively impact quality of life. Conservative physiotherapy interventions play a key role in the management of trapezitis. Among these, Myofascial Release (MFR) and Dry Cupping therapy are widely used techniques. Myofascial Release is a manual therapy approach that targets fascial restrictions to improve tissue mobility, reduce pain, and restore muscle length. Dry Cupping, on the other hand, involves the application of suction cups to the skin to enhance blood circulation, relieve muscle tension, and promote healing. Despite their clinical use, there is limited comparative evidence regarding their effectiveness in managing trapezitis. This study aims to compare the effects of Myofascial Release and Dry Cupping on pain intensity, muscle length, and functional disability in IT professionals with trapezitis. Intervention Strategies: Myofascial Release: This technique involves the application of sustained manual pressure to the upper trapezius muscle and surrounding fascia to release restrictions, improve circulation, and enhance tissue extensibility. It aims to reduce pain and restore normal muscle function. Dry Cupping Therapy: This technique involves placing suction cups on the skin over the upper trapezius region to create negative pressure. This promotes increased blood flow, reduces muscle stiffness, and facilitates pain relief. Study Design and Groups: This randomized controlled trial will include IT professionals diagnosed with trapezitis who meet the inclusion criteria. Participants will be randomly assigned into two groups: Group 1 (Experimental Group): Myofascial Release combined with routine physical therapy. Group 2 (Control Group): Dry Cupping Therapy combined with routine physical therapy. The interventions will be conducted several times per week over a defined treatment period (e.g., 4-6 weeks). Each session will be supervised by trained physiotherapists. Outcome Measures: The primary outcomes of the study will include: Pain intensity measured using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Muscle length of the upper trapezius assessed through standardized measurement techniques, and Functional disability measured using the Neck Disability Index (NDI). Assessments will be conducted at baseline and post-intervention (and mid-intervention if applicable). Data Collection and Analysis: Data will be collected at different time points to evaluate changes in pain, muscle length, and functional disability. Statistical analysis will be performed using appropriate methods such as paired t-tests, independent t-tests, or ANOVA to compare within-group and between-group differences. Safety and Ethics: This study will be conducted following approval from the institutional ethical review board. Informed consent will be obtained from all participants prior to enrollment. All procedures will be carried out by qualified physiotherapists to ensure safety. Potential risks are minimal and may include temporary discomfort, mild soreness, or skin irritation in the case of cupping therapy. Participants will be monitored throughout the intervention period, and any adverse effects will be addressed promptly. Confidentiality of participant data will be strictly maintained, and participation will be voluntary. Significance and Potential Impact: This study has the potential to provide valuable evidence regarding the comparative effectiveness of Myofascial Release and Dry Cupping in managing trapezitis among IT professionals. The findings may assist clinicians in selecting the most appropriate intervention for reducing pain, improving muscle flexibility, and enhancing functional outcomes. Additionally, it may contribute to the development of evidence-based rehabilitation protocols for work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Conclusion: By comparing Myofascial Release with Dry Cupping therapy, this study aims to identify the more effective treatment approach for improving pain, muscle length, and functional disability in IT professionals with trapezitis. The results may support better clinical decision-making and improve rehabilitation outcomes in this population.
- Conditions
- Trapezitis
- Being tested
- Myofascial Release, Dry Cupping
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Myofascial ReleaseOther
Myofascial Release (MFR) is a manual therapy targeting fascial restrictions and trigger points in the upper trapezius. In this study, it involves slow, sustained pressure, stretching, and gliding techniques to restore tissue mobility and reduce muscle tension. Unlike dry cupping, which uses negative pressure and acts more superficially, MFR directly engages deeper fascial layers through therapist-guided contact, allowing precise identification and treatment of restrictions.
For IT professionals with trapezitis, prolonged postures lead to tightness, reduced muscle length, and disability. MFR applies pressure for 90-120 seconds to achieve fascial relaxation, improve circulation, and enhance muscle extensibility. This results in reduced pain and improved function. Its individualized, feedback-based approach distinguishes it from the more passive application of dry cupping, making it effective for addressing underlying dysfunction.
Dry CuppingOther
Also called Cupping Therapy
Dry cupping therapy is a non-invasive technique that uses negative pressure to lift the skin and superficial tissues over the upper trapezius. In this study, cups are applied to tender, hypertonic areas to improve blood flow, reduce stiffness, and relieve pain. Unlike Myofascial Release, which uses direct manual pressure and deep fascial manipulation, dry cupping works indirectly through suction without continuous therapist contact.
In IT professionals with trapezitis, prolonged postures lead to tightness and discomfort. Dry cupping enhances microcirculation, reduces nociceptive input, and supports tissue relaxation, resulting in pain relief and functional improvement. Suction intensity is adjusted based on tolerance and skin response. Its passive, suction-based mechanism distinguishes it from the active, hands-on approach of Myofascial Release.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Group A: Myofascial Release | Experimental | Participants in Group A (Myofascial Release) will receive a standardized intervention targeting the upper trapezius and related fascial structures.Each session will last about 20 minutes and be conducted by a trained physiotherapist.Participants will be positioned in sitting or supine with the cervical spine in neutral to promote relaxation.The therapist will palpate to identify areas of increased tone, fascial restriction, and trigger points. Treatment includes slow, sustained pressure, cross-hand fascial stretching, and longitudinal gliding along muscle fibers.Pressure will be applied gradually and maintained for 90-120 seconds or until tissue resistance decreases, with intensity kept low to moderate based on tolerance, ensuring only mild discomfort. Sessions will be performed three times per week following the FITT principle.This protocol is supported by clinical evidence showing improvements in pain, muscle flexibility, and function in patients with upper trapezius myofascial pain Receives: Other: Myofascial Release |
| Group 2: Dry Cupping | Experimental | Participants in Group B (Dry Cupping Therapy) will receive stationary dry cupping on the upper trapezius for 10-12 minutes per session. Skin will be examined beforehand to exclude contraindications such as wounds or infections. Participants will be positioned seated or prone. Cups will be applied to tender, hypertonic areas identified through palpation, and moderate suction will be created manually. Cups will remain stationary, with suction adjusted based on tolerance and skin response. Sessions will be conducted 2-3 times per week for four weeks. This intervention aims to improve circulation, reduce tissue stiffness, and decrease pain. No co-interventions, including manual therapy, stretching, electrotherapy, or medications, will be allowed; any drug use will be recorded. Outcomes (pain, muscle length, disability) will be assessed at baseline, post-treatment, and at 2-week follow-up to evaluate short-term effects. Receives: Other: Dry Cupping |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Numeric Pain Rating scale
Pain intensity will be assessed using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), a unidimensional self-reported measure widely used in musculoskeletal and neck pain research. The NPRS consists of an 11-point scale ranging from 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst imaginable pain). Participants will be asked to rate their current level of neck or upper trapezius pain at rest.
The NPRS has demonstrated excellent test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.95-0.96), strong construct validity, and high responsiveness for detecting clinically meaningful changes in individuals with neck pain. A change of 2 points or 30% reduction is considered the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) in musculoskeletal conditions. Due to its simplicity, sensitivity, and minimal respondent burden, the NPRS is recommended for use in clinical trials involving neck and trapezius pain.
Measured: 4 weeks
Secondary outcomes (1)
Muscle Length
Upper trapezius muscle length will be assessed using a standardized tape-measure method during controlled cervical side-flexion with contralateral rotation. Measurements will be taken by recording the linear distance between fixed anatomical landmarks, from the mastoid process to the acromion, while maintaining consistent posture and head positioning. Participants will be seated upright with thoracic support, and compensatory trunk movements will be avoided.
Assessments will be conducted at baseline, mid-intervention (end of week 2), and post-intervention (after 4 weeks) to evaluate short-term and progressive changes in muscle extensibility. This method is reliable, practical, and cost-effective for assessing superficial muscle length, particularly in the upper trapezius. With standardized positioning and consistent landmark identification, it shows good intra-rater reliability and sensitivity to change following interventions, enabling objective comparison between treatment groups.
Measured: 4 weeks
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted28 Jul 2026
- Study start29 Jul 2026 (estimated)
- Primary completion30 Aug 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion30 Sep 2026 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for TrapezitisStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- More trials run by Lahore University of Biological and Applied SciencesThe sponsor's other registered studies.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- None (open label)
- Enrolment
- 52 participants (estimated)
Sponsor and investigators
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Sponsor
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07731763
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- UBAS/ERB/26/04/031
- Status last verified
- Jul 2026
- First submitted
- 23 Jul 2026
- Last updated
- 28 Jul 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- Yes
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 28 Jul 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- "Effects of Myofascial Release Versus Dry Cupping on Pain, Muscle Length, and Functional Disability in IT Professionals With Trapezitis"
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07731763
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- UBAS/ERB/26/04/031
- Conditions
- Trapezitis
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Not yet recruiting
- Enrolment
- 52 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- Lahore University of Biological and Applied SciencesUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 29 Jul 2026 (estimated)
- Primary completion
- 30 Aug 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion
- 30 Sep 2026 (estimated)
- First posted
- 28 Jul 2026 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of two physiotherapy techniques-Myofascial Release and Dry Cupping-in improving pain, muscle length, and functional disability in IT professionals with trapezitis. Trapezitis is a common musculoskeletal condition caused by prolonged static postures and repetitive strain, leading to neck and shoulder pain, reduced muscle flexibility, and functional limitations that affect daily activities and work performance. Although both myofascial release and dry cupping are commonly used in clinical practice, limited evidence exists comparing their effectiveness in this population. Participants diagnosed with trapezitis will be randomized into two groups: Group 1 will receive myofascial release along with routine physical therapy, and Group 2 will receive dry cupping therapy along with routine physical therapy. The interventions will be administered multiple times per week over a specified duration, and participants will be assessed before and after treatment. Outcome measures will include pain intensity using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), muscle length of the upper trapezius, and functional disability using the Neck Disability Index (NDI). The study will compare the effects of both interventions, focusing on pain reduction, improvement in muscle flexibility, and enhancement of functional ability. The findings may help in identifying the more effective treatment approach and contribute to improved management strategies for trapezitis among IT professionals.
Detailed description
Trapezitis is a prevalent musculoskeletal disorder, particularly among IT professionals who are exposed to prolonged computer use, poor ergonomics, and sustained static postures. It primarily affects the upper trapezius muscle and is characterized by pain, muscle tightness, reduced flexibility, and functional disability. These symptoms can interfere with occupational performance, decrease productivity, and negatively impact quality of life. Conservative physiotherapy interventions play a key role in the management of trapezitis. Among these, Myofascial Release (MFR) and Dry Cupping therapy are widely used techniques. Myofascial Release is a manual therapy approach that targets fascial restrictions to improve tissue mobility, reduce pain, and restore muscle length. Dry Cupping, on the other hand, involves the application of suction cups to the skin to enhance blood circulation, relieve muscle tension, and promote healing. Despite their clinical use, there is limited comparative evidence regarding their effectiveness in managing trapezitis. This study aims to compare the effects of Myofascial Release and Dry Cupping on pain intensity, muscle length, and functional disability in IT professionals with trapezitis. Intervention Strategies: Myofascial Release: This technique involves the application of sustained manual pressure to the upper trapezius muscle and surrounding fascia to release restrictions, improve circulation, and enhance tissue extensibility. It aims to reduce pain and restore normal muscle function. Dry Cupping Therapy: This technique involves placing suction cups on the skin over the upper trapezius region to create negative pressure. This promotes increased blood flow, reduces muscle stiffness, and facilitates pain relief. Study Design and Groups: This randomized controlled trial will include IT professionals diagnosed with trapezitis who meet the inclusion criteria. Participants will be randomly assigned into two groups: Group 1 (Experimental Group): Myofascial Release combined with routine physical therapy. Group 2 (Control Group): Dry Cupping Therapy combined with routine physical therapy. The interventions will be conducted several times per week over a defined treatment period (e.g., 4-6 weeks). Each session will be supervised by trained physiotherapists. Outcome Measures: The primary outcomes of the study will include: Pain intensity measured using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Muscle length of the upper trapezius assessed through standardized measurement techniques, and Functional disability measured using the Neck Disability Index (NDI). Assessments will be conducted at baseline and post-intervention (and mid-intervention if applicable). Data Collection and Analysis: Data will be collected at different time points to evaluate changes in pain, muscle length, and functional disability. Statistical analysis will be performed using appropriate methods such as paired t-tests, independent t-tests, or ANOVA to compare within-group and between-group differences. Safety and Ethics: This study will be conducted following approval from the institutional ethical review board. Informed consent will be obtained from all participants prior to enrollment. All procedures will be carried out by qualified physiotherapists to ensure safety. Potential risks are minimal and may include temporary discomfort, mild soreness, or skin irritation in the case of cupping therapy. Participants will be monitored throughout the intervention period, and any adverse effects will be addressed promptly. Confidentiality of participant data will be strictly maintained, and participation will be voluntary. Significance and Potential Impact: This study has the potential to provide valuable evidence regarding the comparative effectiveness of Myofascial Release and Dry Cupping in managing trapezitis among IT professionals. The findings may assist clinicians in selecting the most appropriate intervention for reducing pain, improving muscle flexibility, and enhancing functional outcomes. Additionally, it may contribute to the development of evidence-based rehabilitation protocols for work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Conclusion: By comparing Myofascial Release with Dry Cupping therapy, this study aims to identify the more effective treatment approach for improving pain, muscle length, and functional disability in IT professionals with trapezitis. The results may support better clinical decision-making and improve rehabilitation outcomes in this population.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- None (open label)
- Number of arms
- 2
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Group A: Myofascial Release | Experimental | Other: Myofascial ReleaseParticipants in Group A (Myofascial Release) will receive a standardized intervention targeting the upper trapezius and related fascial structures.Each session will last about 20 minutes and be conducted by a trained physiotherapist.Participants will be positioned in sitting or supine with the cervical spine in neutral to promote relaxation.The therapist will palpate to identify areas of increased tone, fascial restriction, and trigger points. Treatment includes slow, sustained pressure, cross-hand fascial stretching, and longitudinal gliding along muscle fibers.Pressure will be applied gradually and maintained for 90-120 seconds or until tissue resistance decreases, with intensity kept low to moderate based on tolerance, ensuring only mild discomfort. Sessions will be performed three times per week following the FITT principle.This protocol is supported by clinical evidence showing improvements in pain, muscle flexibility, and function in patients with upper trapezius myofascial pain |
| Group 2: Dry Cupping | Experimental | Other: Dry CuppingParticipants in Group B (Dry Cupping Therapy) will receive stationary dry cupping on the upper trapezius for 10-12 minutes per session. Skin will be examined beforehand to exclude contraindications such as wounds or infections. Participants will be positioned seated or prone. Cups will be applied to tender, hypertonic areas identified through palpation, and moderate suction will be created manually. Cups will remain stationary, with suction adjusted based on tolerance and skin response. Sessions will be conducted 2-3 times per week for four weeks. This intervention aims to improve circulation, reduce tissue stiffness, and decrease pain. No co-interventions, including manual therapy, stretching, electrotherapy, or medications, will be allowed; any drug use will be recorded. Outcomes (pain, muscle length, disability) will be assessed at baseline, post-treatment, and at 2-week follow-up to evaluate short-term effects. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 25 to 65 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Adult, Older adult
Key inclusion criteria (1 listed)
- IT professionals aged 20-65 years diagnosed with trapezitis (upper trapezius myofascial pain) characterized by pain and tenderness in the upper trapezius region for at least 4 weeks. Participants must have a pain intensity of ≥3 on the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), exhibit restricted cervical range of motion or reduced upper trapezius muscle length as assessed using a goniometer. Functional disability must be present as indicated by a Neck Disability Index (NDI) score within the mild to moderate range (e.g., 10-28%), and be engaged in computer-based work for a minimum of 6 hours per day. Both male and female participants who provide informed consent will be included.
Key exclusion criteria (1 listed)
- Individuals with a history of cervical spine pathology including disc herniation, radiculopathy, or spondylosis with neurological involvement; previous trauma or surgery involving the cervical spine, shoulder girdle, or upper thoracic region; presence of symptomatic or inflammatory musculoskeletal conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, fibromyalgia); neurological disorders affecting the upper limb or cervical region (e.g., peripheral neuropathy, myelopathy); skin conditions or contraindications to cupping therapy (e.g., open wounds, active infections, eczema, psoriasis); bleeding disorders or current anticoagulant therapy; pregnancy; and inability to comply with the treatment protocol or follow-up assessments will be excluded.
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Myofascial ReleaseMyofascial Release (MFR) is a manual therapy targeting fascial restrictions and trigger points in the upper trapezius. In this study, it involves slow, sustained pressure, stretching, and gliding techniques to restore tissue mobility and reduce muscle tension. Unlike dry cupping, which uses negative pressure and acts more superficially, MFR directly engages deeper fascial layers through therapist-guided contact, allowing precise identification and treatment of restrictions. For IT professionals with trapezitis, prolonged postures lead to tightness, reduced muscle length, and disability. MFR applies pressure for 90-120 seconds to achieve fascial relaxation, improve circulation, and enhance muscle extensibility. This results in reduced pain and improved function. Its individualized, feedback-based approach distinguishes it from the more passive application of dry cupping, making it effective for addressing underlying dysfunction. | Other | Group A: Myofascial Release |
| Dry CuppingAlso: Cupping TherapyDry cupping therapy is a non-invasive technique that uses negative pressure to lift the skin and superficial tissues over the upper trapezius. In this study, cups are applied to tender, hypertonic areas to improve blood flow, reduce stiffness, and relieve pain. Unlike Myofascial Release, which uses direct manual pressure and deep fascial manipulation, dry cupping works indirectly through suction without continuous therapist contact. In IT professionals with trapezitis, prolonged postures lead to tightness and discomfort. Dry cupping enhances microcirculation, reduces nociceptive input, and supports tissue relaxation, resulting in pain relief and functional improvement. Suction intensity is adjusted based on tolerance and skin response. Its passive, suction-based mechanism distinguishes it from the active, hands-on approach of Myofascial Release. | Other | Group 2: Dry Cupping |
Primary outcome
Numeric Pain Rating scale
Time frame: 4 weeks
Pain intensity will be assessed using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), a unidimensional self-reported measure widely used in musculoskeletal and neck pain research. The NPRS consists of an 11-point scale ranging from 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst imaginable pain). Participants will be asked to rate their current level of neck or upper trapezius pain at rest. The NPRS has demonstrated excellent test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.95-0.96), strong construct validity, and high responsiveness for detecting clinically meaningful changes in individuals with neck pain. A change of 2 points or 30% reduction is considered the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) in musculoskeletal conditions. Due to its simplicity, sensitivity, and minimal respondent burden, the NPRS is recommended for use in clinical trials involving neck and trapezius pain.
1 secondary outcome
Muscle Length
Time frame: 4 weeks
Results and safety
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 28 Jul 2026.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No
Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part.
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Myofascial Release and Dry Cupping in people with Trapezitis, run by Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences at 1 site in Pakistan.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 1 inclusion and 1 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: opening soon, as of the sponsor's last update on 28 Jul 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Pakistan. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
Contact Syeda Zaira Haider Kazmi, DPT (03344068521 ext. 03334499708, syedazairahaiderkazmi@gmail.com), or a site near the patient. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Numeric Pain Rating scale (time frame: 4 weeks). It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 28 Jul 2026.