Manual Therapy Techniques for Cervical Pain: Algometric Evaluation
Spain105 participantsStarted 2025-05-19
Plain-language summary
The main objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of different manual therapy techniques in the treatment of cervical pain related to the upper trapezius muscle.
The intervention will compare the effects of superficial massage, deep massage, and pressure release technique on pain intensity, assessed through algometry.
Additionally, the study aims to determine whether the application of passive stretching following manual treatment leads to a significantly greater reduction in pain compared to groups that do not receive stretching.
Finally, the persistence of treatment effects will be evaluated one and two weeks after the intervention.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 40 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Be an undergraduate student in Physiotherapy.
* Be between 18 and 40 years old.
* Have experienced cervical pain at least once in their life.
* Present pain localized in the upper fibers of the trapezius muscle.
* Voluntarily agree to participate in the study by signing an informed consent form.
Exclusion Criteria:
* Suffer from migraines.
* Have any diagnosed neurological disorders.
* Have suffered a recent injury or trauma in the cervical region.
* Have scoliosis or any other relevant spinal pathology.
* Present any musculoskeletal condition that could interfere with the study outcomes.
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.