Myofascial Release and Dynamic Cupping in Children

ConditionNeck Pain

Trial statusRecruiting

Trial phaseNot applicable

Trial typeInterventional

Biological sexAll

Age7-12

SponsorRiphah International University

About this trial

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.

Eligibility criteria

This trial does not accept healthy volunteers

Qualifiers

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)

Disqualifiers

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 design

Design model

Parallel

Treatments tested in this trial

Myofascial release therapy
Other intervention
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 cupping
Other intervention
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

Treatment groups

45 Participants

are divided into 2 treatment groups

Group A: Myofascial release therapyActive comparator 1 intervention

Group B: Dynamic cuppingExperimental treatment 1 intervention

Trial outcomes

Primary outcomes

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.

Time frame

4th day

Secondary outcomes

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.

Time frame

4th day

Sponsors and contacts

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Riphah International University

Lead sponsor

Source ClinicalTrials.gov

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