Study Evaluating the Benefit of Dry Needling for Patients With Neck Pain

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age between 18-60 years old

2. Primary complaint of neck pain

3. Restricted cervical extension/and or cervical rotation ROM

4. Neck Disability Index > 20 points

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Red flags noted in the patient's Neck Medical Screening Questionnaire (i.e. tumor,
fracture, metabolic diseases, RA, osteoporosis, prolonged history of steroid use,
symptoms of vertebrobasilary insufficiency, pregnancy, cervical spinal stenosis,
bilateral upper extremity symptoms etc.

2. Use of blood thinners

3. History of whiplash injury within the past six weeks

4. Evidence of central nervous system involvement, to include hyperreflexia, sensory
disturbances in the hand, intrinsic muscle wasting of the hands, unsteadiness during
walking, nystagmus, loss of visual acuity, impaired sensation of the face, altered
taste, the presence of pathological reflexes (i.e. positive Hoffman's and/or Babinski
reflexes), etc.

5. Two or more positive neurologic signs consistent with nerve root compression,
including any two of the following:

- Muscle weakness involving a major muscle group of the upper extremity

- Diminished upper extremity muscle stretch reflex (biceps brachii,
brachioradialis, or triceps)

- Diminished or absent sensation to pinprick in any upper extremity dermatome

6. Prior surgery to the neck or thoracic spine

7. Chiropractic, Physical Therapy, or Acupuncture treatment for their neck pain in the
last 12-months

8. Workers compensation or pending legal action regarding their headaches

9. Insufficient English language skills to complete all questionnaires

10. Inability to comply with treatment and follow-up schedule