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RESEARCH PRODUCT

Selected needling techniques in pain associated with musculoskeletal disorders: a narrative review

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Background: Therapies involving various needling techniques are becoming more common treatment methods for musculoskeletal disorders. Aim of the study: To review the most commonly used needling techniques and their effect on the level of pain and functional status of patients with selected musculoskeletal disorders, i.e., lower back pain, upper trapezius muscle (UT) pain, cervicogenic headaches, myofascial pain syndrome (MPS), and chronic pain localized to the knee joint. Material and methods: A review of the academic literature was conducted between December 2021 and January 2022. The needle therapy methods used in the treatment of pain ailments were selected based on publications available in recognized on-line medical databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Medline, PEDro) and are applied in everyday clinical practice. The following search terms were used: “needling”; “acupuncture”; “injections”; and “musculoskeletal disorders”. The analysis focused on the characteristics of the materials and methods, results and conclusions sections of the publications. Conclusions: This literature review demonstrated that the use of needle therapy is effective in selected musculoskeletal disorders. Various techniques of dry needling, acupuncture, and intra-lesional injections can effectively reduce pain and improve functional ability. This study can guide therapists in selecting the most suitable treatment for patients dealing with pain or limited physical functionality.