The Effectiveness of Thread-Embedding Acupuncture as Therapy for Myofascial Pain in the Upper Trapezius Muscle

Inclusion Criteria: Male or female aged 18-59 years. Subject with myofascial pain in the upper trapezius muscle. VAS score of 30-70 mm from 100 mm during activities (everyday activities or light exercise). Pain > 3 months. Willing to participate in this research to completion and sign informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: Fibromyalgia. Have had cervical spine surgery. Have done Dry needling therapy on the upper trapezius muscle in the last 9 days Have done thread acupuncture on the upper trapezius muscle in the last 6 months. Have performed pharmacopuncture on the upper trapezius muscle in the last 6 months. VAS score is more than 70 mm than 100 mm at resting. History of anti-inflammatory drug treatment in the previous 2 weeks. History of intra-articular steroid injections in the previous 3 months. There is a tumor, wound, or skin infection at the needle insertion area. Fever (≥ 37.5 oC). There is a hypersensitivity reaction in previous acupuncture therapy (metal allergy, severe atopy, keloids, or other skin hypersensitivity). Suffering from a blood disorder or taking blood thinners (anti-platelet or anti-coagulant drugs). Have a heart condition or uncontrolled diabetes. Blood glucose level (GDS) ≥200 mg/dL is checked by capillary blood using a glucometer.