Neck PainNCT07575139
Myofascial Release and Dynamic Cupping in Children
A study testing Myofascial release therapy and dynamic cupping in people with Neck Pain, run by Riphah International University at 1 site in Pakistan.
Trial summary
Neck pain is a common musculoskeletal disorder that significantly affects quality of life and daily activities, with an annual prevalence of 30-50% worldwide. This randomized clinical trial aims to compare the effects of myofascial release therapy and dynamic cupping on neck pain and posture in school-based children… Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 7 to 12 years
- Conditions the study is for
- Neck Pain
- What is being tested?
- Myofascial release therapy and dynamic cupping
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 45 participants
- Where
- 1 sitePakistan
- Study dates
- 29 Jan 2025to 19 Jul 2026
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- None posted in the registry
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 7 to 12 years
- All sexes
- No healthy volunteers
- Child
Who may be able to join
- Children with age 13 to 16.
- Both boys and girls
- neck pain (NPRS score from 7 to 10)
- Presence of postural deviations (will be access by using Plumb line test)
Who cannot join
- Skin infections, open wounds, or dermatological conditions in the neck/upper back region
- Neurological symptoms (cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis)
- Recent use of analgesics
- use of assistive devices (collars)
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
About this study
Official title: Comparative Effects of Myofascial Release Therapy and Dynamic Cupping on Neck Pain and Posture in School Going Children.
Neck pain is a common musculoskeletal disorder that significantly affects quality of life and daily activities, with an annual prevalence of 30-50% worldwide. This randomized clinical trial aims to compare the effects of myofascial release therapy and dynamic cupping on neck pain and posture in school-based children aged 7-12 years. A total of 40 children with neck pain and postural deviations will be recruited from schools and randomly assigned to either a myofascial release group or a dynamic cupping group (20 participants each) for a 6-week intervention. Children with skin conditions, neurological symptoms, recent analgesic use, or assistive device use will be excluded. Outcomes will be assessed using the Visual Analog Scale, goniometer, and plumb line test, and data will be analyzed using SPSS version 27 to determine the effectiveness of both interventions in reducing pain and improving posture.
Read the detailed description
Neck pain is a highly prevalent musculoskeletal disorder that significantly impairs quality of life and restricts social, academic, and physical activities. Globally, neck pain is ranked as the fourth leading cause of disability, with an annual prevalence estimated between 30% and 50%. Chronic neck pain is defined as pain or discomfort experienced along the posterior cervical spine, extending from the superior nuchal line to the first thoracic spinous process, persisting for more than three months. In school-aged children, prolonged poor posture, excessive screen use, and heavy schoolbags contribute to the increasing incidence of neck pain and postural deviations, making early intervention essential.
This study is designed as a randomized clinical trial to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of myofascial release therapy and dynamic cupping therapy in reducing neck pain and correcting postural deviations in school-based children. The study will be conducted in selected schools, where data collection and treatment sessions will take place. Children aged 7 to 12 years, both boys and girls, who present with neck pain and observable postural deviations will be included in the study. Exclusion criteria will consist of children with skin infections, open wounds, or dermatological conditions in the neck or upper back region, neurological symptoms, recent use of analgesic medications, or reliance on assistive devices, to ensure participant safety and reduce confounding variables.
- Conditions
- Neck Pain
- Being tested
- Myofascial release therapy, dynamic cupping
- Keywords
- neck pain, posture, dynamic cupping, myofascial release
- Medical subject headings
- Neck Pain
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Myofascial release therapyOther
The participants in this group will receive myofascial release therapy. Stretching of neck muscles: hold of 15-30 seconds, repeat for 2 sets Isometric setting of neck muscle: (for 12 seconds, repeated for 2 sets, with 1- minute rest between sets) (neck flexion, neck extension, side flexion without changing their length or the angle of the joint, essentially holding a static position) Postural exercise for neck: (chin tucks) (shoulder elevation and drop) (shoulder retraction and protraction) (Cobra/Sphinx Pose) (hold for 5-10 sec, 2x set)
dynamic cuppingOther
Dynamic cupping involves applying a silicone or plastic cup to lubricated skin and creating gentle suction by squeezing the cup 2-3 time. Once suction is established, the therapist glides the cup smoothly over the muscle fibers in slow, controlled stroke linear, circular, or fan-shape to mobilize soft tissue and fascia. The cup should move without causing excessive pulling or discomfort, typically for 2 minutes per area. The suction level is moderate to keep the cup attached while allowing movement, and the therapist continuously adjusts pressure based on feedback. After treatment, the cup is gently lifted to release suction, and the skin is checked for any irritation
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Myofascial release therapy | Active comparator | The participants in this group will receive myofascial release therapy. Stretching of neck muscles: hold of 15-30 seconds, repeat for 2 sets Isometric setting of neck muscle: (for 12 seconds, repeated for 2 sets, with 1- minute rest between sets) (neck flexion, neck extension, side flexion without changing their length or the angle of the joint, essentially holding a static position) Postural exercise for neck: (chin tucks) (shoulder elevation and drop) (shoulder retraction and protraction) (Cobra/Sphinx Pose) (hold for 5-10 sec, 2x set) Receives: Other: Myofascial release therapy |
| Dynamic cupping | Experimental | The participants in this group will receive dynamic cupping. Stretching of neck muscles: hold of 15-30 seconds, repeat for 2 sets Isometric setting of neck muscle: (for 12 seconds, repeated for 2 sets, with 1- minute rest between sets) (neck flexion, neck extension, side flexion without changing their
.length or the angle of the joint, essentially holding a static position) 3. Dynamic cupping: Dynamic cupping involves applying a silicone or plastic cup to lubricated skin and creating gentle suction by squeezing the cup 2-3 time. Once suction is established, the therapist glides the cup smoothly over the muscle fibers in slow, controlled stroke linear, circular, or fan-shape to mobilize soft tissue and fascia. The cup should move without causing excessive pulling or discomfort, typically for 2 minutes per area. The suction level is moderate to keep the cup attached while allowing movement Receives: Other: dynamic cupping |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
posture correction
Posture correction refers to the improvement in head, neck, and shoulder alignment, particularly reduction in forward head posture and rounded shoulders. It is measured using objective tools such as craniovertebral angle, postural assessment scales, or photographic analysis. Improvement is indicated by increased alignment angles and a more neutral upright posture.
Measured: 4th day
Secondary outcomes (1)
rang of motion
Range of motion refers to the degree of movement available at the cervical spine in all directions, including flexion, extension, lateral flexion, and rotation. It is measured using tools such as a goniometer or inclinometer to assess functional mobility. Improvement is indicated by increased pain-free movement and greater cervical mobility in all planes.
Measured: 4th day
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted8 May 2026
- Study start29 Jan 2025
- Primary completion9 Jul 2026
- Study completion19 Jul 2026
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Publications (2)Papers the sponsor has linked to this study.
- Other trials for Neck PainStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- More trials run by Riphah International UniversityThe 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
- Other
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind
- Who is masked
- Participant
- Enrolment
- 45 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Riphah International University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Sponsor
- Investigators
- EAYZA RIAZ, MS-PT, Principal investigator, RIPHAH INTERNATINAAL UNIVERSITY
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07575139
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- REC/RCR&AHS/25/0731
- Status last verified
- Sep 2026
- First submitted
- 23 Feb 2026
- Last updated
- 30 Sep 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No
Publications
Guo Y, Lv X, Zhou Y, Li Z, She H, Bai L, Bao J. Myofascial release for the treatment of pain and dysfunction in patients with chronic mechanical neck pain: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Clin Rehabil. 2023 Apr;37(4):478-493. doi: 10.1177/02692155221136108. Epub 2022 Oct 27.
PubMed 36305079Mihcioglu EK, Guchan Topcu Z, Tunali AN, Mihcioglu S, Tomac H. Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization as a promising approach for children with chronic neck pain: A single-blind, randomized study. J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil. 2026 May;39(3):1044-1052. doi: 10.1177/10538127251401084. Epub 2025 Dec 7.
PubMed 41355013
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 30 Sep 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Comparative Effects of Myofascial Release Therapy and Dynamic Cupping on Neck Pain and Posture in School Going Children.
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07575139
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- REC/RCR&AHS/25/0731
- Conditions
- Neck Pain
- Keywords
- neck pain, posture, dynamic cupping, myofascial release
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 45 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Riphah International UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 29 Jan 2025 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 9 Jul 2026 (actual)
- Study completion
- 19 Jul 2026 (actual)
- First posted
- 8 May 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.
Neck pain is a common musculoskeletal disorder that significantly affects quality of life and daily activities, with an annual prevalence of 30-50% worldwide. This randomized clinical trial aims to compare the effects of myofascial release therapy and dynamic cupping on neck pain and posture in school-based children aged 7-12 years. A total of 40 children with neck pain and postural deviations will be recruited from schools and randomly assigned to either a myofascial release group or a dynamic cupping group (20 participants each) for a 6-week intervention. Children with skin conditions, neurological symptoms, recent analgesic use, or assistive device use will be excluded. Outcomes will be assessed using the Visual Analog Scale, goniometer, and plumb line test, and data will be analyzed using SPSS version 27 to determine the effectiveness of both interventions in reducing pain and improving posture.
Detailed description
Neck pain is a highly prevalent musculoskeletal disorder that significantly impairs quality of life and restricts social, academic, and physical activities. Globally, neck pain is ranked as the fourth leading cause of disability, with an annual prevalence estimated between 30% and 50%. Chronic neck pain is defined as pain or discomfort experienced along the posterior cervical spine, extending from the superior nuchal line to the first thoracic spinous process, persisting for more than three months. In school-aged children, prolonged poor posture, excessive screen use, and heavy schoolbags contribute to the increasing incidence of neck pain and postural deviations, making early intervention essential.
This study is designed as a randomized clinical trial to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of myofascial release therapy and dynamic cupping therapy in reducing neck pain and correcting postural deviations in school-based children. The study will be conducted in selected schools, where data collection and treatment sessions will take place. Children aged 7 to 12 years, both boys and girls, who present with neck pain and observable postural deviations will be included in the study. Exclusion criteria will consist of children with skin infections, open wounds, or dermatological conditions in the neck or upper back region, neurological symptoms, recent use of analgesic medications, or reliance on assistive devices, to ensure participant safety and reduce confounding variables.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Other
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind (participant)
- Number of arms
- 2
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Myofascial release therapy | Active comparator | Other: Myofascial release therapyThe participants in this group will receive myofascial release therapy. Stretching of neck muscles: hold of 15-30 seconds, repeat for 2 sets Isometric setting of neck muscle: (for 12 seconds, repeated for 2 sets, with 1- minute rest between sets) (neck flexion, neck extension, side flexion without changing their length or the angle of the joint, essentially holding a static position) Postural exercise for neck: (chin tucks) (shoulder elevation and drop) (shoulder retraction and protraction) (Cobra/Sphinx Pose) (hold for 5-10 sec, 2x set) |
| Dynamic cupping | Experimental | Other: dynamic cuppingThe participants in this group will receive dynamic cupping. Stretching of neck muscles: hold of 15-30 seconds, repeat for 2 sets Isometric setting of neck muscle: (for 12 seconds, repeated for 2 sets, with 1- minute rest between sets) (neck flexion, neck extension, side flexion without changing their .length or the angle of the joint, essentially holding a static position) 3. Dynamic cupping: Dynamic cupping involves applying a silicone or plastic cup to lubricated skin and creating gentle suction by squeezing the cup 2-3 time. Once suction is established, the therapist glides the cup smoothly over the muscle fibers in slow, controlled stroke linear, circular, or fan-shape to mobilize soft tissue and fascia. The cup should move without causing excessive pulling or discomfort, typically for 2 minutes per area. The suction level is moderate to keep the cup attached while allowing movement |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 7 to 12 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Child
Key inclusion criteria (4 listed)
- Children with age 13 to 16.
- Both boys and girls
- neck pain (NPRS score from 7 to 10)
- Presence of postural deviations (will be access by using Plumb line test)
Key exclusion criteria (4 listed)
- Skin infections, open wounds, or dermatological conditions in the neck/upper back region
- Neurological symptoms (cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis)
- Recent use of analgesics
- use of assistive devices (collars)
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 release therapyThe participants in this group will receive myofascial release therapy. Stretching of neck muscles: hold of 15-30 seconds, repeat for 2 sets Isometric setting of neck muscle: (for 12 seconds, repeated for 2 sets, with 1- minute rest between sets) (neck flexion, neck extension, side flexion without changing their length or the angle of the joint, essentially holding a static position) Postural exercise for neck: (chin tucks) (shoulder elevation and drop) (shoulder retraction and protraction) (Cobra/Sphinx Pose) (hold for 5-10 sec, 2x set) | Other | Myofascial release therapy |
| dynamic cuppingDynamic cupping involves applying a silicone or plastic cup to lubricated skin and creating gentle suction by squeezing the cup 2-3 time. Once suction is established, the therapist glides the cup smoothly over the muscle fibers in slow, controlled stroke linear, circular, or fan-shape to mobilize soft tissue and fascia. The cup should move without causing excessive pulling or discomfort, typically for 2 minutes per area. The suction level is moderate to keep the cup attached while allowing movement, and the therapist continuously adjusts pressure based on feedback. After treatment, the cup is gently lifted to release suction, and the skin is checked for any irritation | Other | Dynamic cupping |
Primary outcome
posture correction
Time frame: 4th day
Posture correction refers to the improvement in head, neck, and shoulder alignment, particularly reduction in forward head posture and rounded shoulders. It is measured using objective tools such as craniovertebral angle, postural assessment scales, or photographic analysis. Improvement is indicated by increased alignment angles and a more neutral upright posture.
1 secondary outcome
rang of motion
Time frame: 4th day
Results and safety
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 30 Sep 2026.
- Background: PubMed 36305079Guo Y, Lv X, Zhou Y, Li Z, She H, Bai L, Bao J. Myofascial release for the treatment of pain and dysfunction in patients with chronic mechanical neck pain: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Clin Rehabil. 2023 Apr;37(4):478-493. doi: 10.1177/02692155221136108. Epub 2022 Oct 27.
- Background: PubMed 41355013Mihcioglu EK, Guchan Topcu Z, Tunali AN, Mihcioglu S, Tomac H. Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization as a promising approach for children with chronic neck pain: A single-blind, randomized study. J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil. 2026 May;39(3):1044-1052. doi: 10.1177/10538127251401084. Epub 2025 Dec 7.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No
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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. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
EAYZA RIAZ, MS-PT principal investigator
RIPHAH INTERNATINAAL UNIVERSITY
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 therapy and dynamic cupping in people with Neck Pain, run by Riphah International University 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 4 inclusion and 4 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: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 30 Sep 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?
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
posture correction (time frame: 4th day). It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
On the ClinicalTrials.gov record for NCT07575139, which also lists 2 linked publications.
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 30 Sep 2026.