Comparing Efficacy of Dry Needling Combined with Passive Stretching and Muscle Energy Technique on Myofascial Trigger Points

Inclusion Criteria: * Presence of neck pain for at least 3 months or more * Presence of trigger points in the upper trapezius muscle, either unilaterally or bilaterally * Age between 18 and 60 years Exclusion Criteria: * Having an ongoing infection or fever * Presence of shoulder pathology, such as tendinopathy, impingement syndrome, capsulitis, or bursitis * History of direct trauma to the shoulder or neck * Immunosuppressed individuals (e.g., those with cancer) * Pregnant or recently delivered * Diagnosis of fibromyalgia * History of previous neck or shoulder surgery * Previous local steroid injection or acupuncture * Any abnormality that restricts cervical range of motion (e.g., degenerative changes, cervical spine spondylolisthesis, disc protrusion, extrusion, or sequestration observed in MRI) * Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus * Needle phobia * Metal allergies * Cervical instability * Presence of local skin lesions or infections * Significant cognitive impairment or uncooperative behavior * Participants who have previously undergone any form of physiotherapy intervention for the treatment of neck pain or related conditions