NCT07322445 · Washington University School of Medicine
Multi-modal Imaging of Myofascial Pain - Phase 2
What this study is about
The goal of this study is to evaluate imaging biomarkers for quantitative assessments of myofascial pain and determine their ability to monitor treatment response and predict clinical outcomes.
View original scientific description
The goal of this study is to evaluate imaging biomarkers for quantitative assessments of myofascial pain and determine their ability to monitor treatment response and predict clinical outcomes.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Adults between the ages of 18 and 80 years old.
- History of spontaneous (non-provoked) pain in the neck and/or shoulder region lasting at least 3 months. Neck and/or shoulder pain, unilateral or bilateral.
- Presence of a palpable myofascial trigger point (MTrP) in one or both upper trapezius muscles.
- The participant has a Numeric Pain Rating Scale of 4/10 or more in the last one week, and the pain is reproducible by palpating the trigger point.
- Pain localized to the area of the trigger point that is reproduced or worsened upon palpation.
- Radiation of pain to the head, neck, or face with palpation is allowed but not required.
Exclusion criteria
- Age \<18 or \>80 years old.
- Acute cervical spine pathology, trauma (e.g. whiplash) or cervical radiculopathy
- History of surgery involving the head, neck, or shoulder girdle.
- Presence of neuromuscular pathologies or inflammatory muscle diseases (e.g. dermatomyositis)
- Systemic disease with diffuse body pain (e.g. system lupus erythematosus)
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Cancer-related pain
- Pregnancy, coagulopathy or other bleeding disorder, fever, general/local infection at the pain site, substance abuse, or any other diseases that may account for signs and symptoms mimicking myofascial pain.
- Contraindication to MRI
- Chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, or chronic Lyme disease.
- Use of acupuncture or changes in pain medications within 6 weeks of enrollment.
- Receipt of Botox injection to the neck/shoulder region within the past 3 months or trigger point injection within the past 6 weeks.
Where
- St Louis, Missouri
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jan 7, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations