Response to Massage in Neck Pain

Last updated: July 21, 2025
Sponsor: University of Florida
Overall Status: Active - Recruiting

Phase

N/A

Condition

Neck Pain

Chronic Pain

Treatment

Pain Inducing Massage

Pain Free Massage

Cold Water Bath

Clinical Study ID

NCT06224829
IRB202301891
  • Ages 18-60
  • All Genders

Study Summary

This study is interested in whether baseline measures of pain sensitivity i.e. the amount of pressure required to feel pain predicts pain relief following a pain inducing massage AND whether pain relief following a pain inducing massage is different than a pain free massage or placing your hand in a cold water bath. Participants with neck pain will be randomly assigned to receive a pain inducing massage, pain free massage, or to place their hand in a cold water bath.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Age 18 to 60 years old

  • Currently experiencing neck pain with or without arm pain

  • Neck pain symptom intensity rated as 4/10 or higher during the last 24 hours

  • Neck pain for greater than or equal to 3 months

Exclusion

Exclusion Criteria:

  • Non- English speaking

  • Systemic medical conditions known to affect sensation (e.g. diabetes)

  • History of neck surgery or fracture within the past 6 months

  • Current history of chronic pain condition other than neck pain

  • Diagnosis of cervical radiculopathy or cervical myelopathy

  • History of whiplash

  • Currently using blood thinning medication

  • Any blood clotting disorder such as hemophilia

  • Any contraindication to application of ice, such as: uncontrolled hypertension, coldurticaria, cryoglobulinemia, paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria, and circulatorycompromise

  • Pregnancy

Study Design

Total Participants: 53
Treatment Group(s): 3
Primary Treatment: Pain Inducing Massage
Phase:
Study Start date:
April 08, 2024
Estimated Completion Date:
July 22, 2026

Connect with a study center

  • University of Florida

    Gainesville, Florida 32610
    United States

    Active - Recruiting

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