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

Background: Few studies have compared superficial and deep dry needling techniques in treatmentof trigger points in patients with Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS).Objectives: To compare the effects of Superficial Dry Needling (SDN) and Deep DryNeedling (DDN) on Range of Motion (ROM) and functional ability in subjects with uppertrapezius MPS.Materials & Methods: This is a quasi-experimental study conducted on 50 patients with MPS ofupper trapezius muscle. They were randomly divided into two groups of 25 treated with SDN andDDN. They were examined in Physiotherapy Clinic of Iran University of Medical Sciences during2016-2017. Neck disability and cervical ROM were measured using Neck Disability Index (NDI)instrument a goniometer, respectively. The subjects were evaluated before the treatment, after thetreatment, and 7-and 15-day follow-up periods. The Independent t-test and ANOVA were used tocompare 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 thelateral cervical ROM over the unaffected side and NDI were significant (P<0.001). The simple maineffect 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 DDNtechniques were used, but these changes were more significant in patients treated with DDN,especially in the follow-up periods.