Pilot MRI Study on Osteopathic Manipulation for Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Launched by AUBURN UNIVERSITY · Jul 31, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring the use of MRI scans to understand myofascial pain syndrome (MPS), a condition that causes pain in specific areas of the body known as trigger points. The researchers want to see if certain MRI findings, or biomarkers, can show differences between normal tissue and the painful trigger points, and how these biomarkers change after patients receive osteopathic manipulation therapy (OMT), a hands-on treatment aimed at relieving pain. Participants will be divided into two groups—one group will receive OMT, while the other will not receive any treatment.

To be eligible for this study, participants need to be adults aged 18 to 64 who have MPS in their upper back, confirmed by a specific ultrasound test. They should be able to understand and speak English and have no serious health issues that could affect their participation, such as certain cancers, major mental health disorders, or recent surgeries. Those interested will undergo screenings, MRI scans, and fill out surveys about their pain and physical abilities. This trial aims to improve our understanding of MPS and how OMT might help, so it’s an important step for patients dealing with this type of pain.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • MPS of the upper back with MTrPs as specified by Travell and Simons, with the confirmation of ultrasound procedure.
• • Normal neurological examination including manual muscle testing, sensory exam, and deep tendon reflexes.
• • English-speaking.
• • Age 18 - 64 and reside in the community.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Malignancy.
• • Major psychiatric disorders, such as bipolar disorder and depression.
• • Cognitive impairment
• • Skin lesion(s) on the shoulders and upper back.
• • Systematic pain condition, such as Fibromyalgia.
• • Previous surgical procedures in the spine, shoulder, and/or back within six months.
• • Pregnancy.
• • BMI of 40 or higher.
• • Any health conditions that prevent participants from performing the experimental procedure
• • Any contraindications of MRI procedure such as implantable cardiac devices (pacemakers, defibrillator, etc.), aneurysm clips, or metallic shoulder and/or spinal cord implants or screws.