The addition of thoracic mobilization to aerobic exercise did not alter autonomic function and pain pressure threshold acutely in asymptomatic young people: A randomized controlled trial.

Objective: To analyze the influence of acute aerobic exercise (AE) plus thoracic mobilization in pain perception and autonomic nervous system response in healthy adults.

Design: Randomized clinical trial.

Methods: Forty-eight asymptomatic adults were allocated into one of three groups: 1) Aerobic Exercise (AE), 2) Aerobic Exercise + Mobilization (AE + M), and 3) Placebo.

Immediate Effects of Dry Needling and Myofascial Release on Local and Widespread Pressure Pain Threshold in Individuals With Active Upper Trapezius Trigger Points: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Objective: This study sought to compare the immediate effects of a single session of dry needling (DN), myofascial release (MR), and sham DN on pressure pain threshold (PPT) and neck pain intensity in individuals with chronic neck pain.

Methods: This was a randomized trial with a blinded outcome assessor. Forty-four individuals with chronic neck pain and unilateral myofascial trigger points in the upper trapezius muscle (UTM) were randomized to receive DN (n = 15), MR (n = 14), or sham DN (n = 15).

Does focus of attention alter craniocervical flexion test motor learning? A randomized controlled trial.

Objective: To evaluate the effects of three different foci of attention (internal, external and mixed) on motor learning using craniocervical flexion test in inexperienced participants.

Methods: Ninety healthy young adults, with no experience in the task, practiced the craniocervical flexion test under three different focus of attention: a) Mixed Focus (internal plus external), b) Internal Focus, and c) External Focus. We assessed immediate, post-training, and retention (one week after the last training session) aspects of motor learning by quantifying (i) the activity of the superficial cervical flexors muscles, (ii) craniocervical range of motion, and (iii) the performance on the craniocervical flexion test.

Dry Needling Combined With Guideline-Based Physical Therapy Provides No Added Benefit in the Management of Chronic Neck Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Objective: To determine the added benefit of combining dry needling with a guideline-based physical therapy treatment program consisting of exercise and manual therapy on pain and disability in people with chronic neck pain.

Design: Randomized controlled trial.

Methods: Participants were randomized to receive either guideline-based physical therapy or guideline-based physical therapy plus dry needling.