Dry Needling vs. Cupping Therapy in MPS

This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of dry needling and cupping therapy in patients diagnosed with myofascial pain syndrome involving the trapezius, supraspinatus, infraspinatus, and levator scapulae muscles. Treatment efficacy was evaluated using the visual analog scale (VAS), the number of trigger points, the Likert satisfaction scale, and the multidimensional quality of life scale.

Inclusion Criteria: * Back pain lasting more than three months * At least one palpable myofascial TN in the trapezius, supraspinatus, infraspinatus, and/or levator scapulae muscles * Written informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Prior dry needling treatment * Prior cupping therapy * Severe cognitive dysfunction * Spinal fracture * Infection * Malignancy * Ankylosing spondylitis * Central nervous system injury * Psychiatric disorder * Diseases causing tissue degeneration * Conditions associated with spasticity or cerebrovascular disease * Cervical radiculopathy due to structural abnormalities * Muscle or tendon injuries of the shoulder or neck * Fibromyalgia or other conditions presenting with symptoms similar to myofascial pain syndrome * Use of anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy * Thrombocytopenia or hemorrhagic disorders * A history of surgery or blood donation within the previous three months * Pregnancy * Breastfeeding * Presence of renal, hepatic, or severe cardiovascular disease