The Effect of Dry Needling on Strength, Endurance, and Thickness of Back Extensor Muscles in Postmenopausal Women with Osteoporosis: A Randomized Clinical Trial Study Protocol

Articles in Press

Document Type : PROTOCOL

Authors

1 Physical therapy department, School of Rehabilitation, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

2 Physical therapy Department, School of Rehabilitation, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

3 Department of Rheumatology, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

4 Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

5 Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA

10.22038/abjs.2025.87826.3976

Abstract

Abstract

Objective: Osteoporosis is a progressive disease characterized by reduced bone density, which increases the risk of fractures and impairs functionality, particularly in postmenopausal women. Thoracic kyphosis and weakened back extensor muscles further exacerbate these issues, leading to a diminished quality of life (QoL). While exercise therapy is a standard treatment for these patients, dry needling may provide additional benefits.

Methods: A single-center, double-blind randomized controlled trial (RCT) will involve 24 postmenopausal women diagnosed with osteoporosis. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups :the dry needling plus exercise group (n=12) or the sham needling plus exercise group (n=12). Both groups will undergo nine sessions over a period of three weeks (three sessions per week). Outcomes will be assessed both before and after the intervention. The Primary outcomes will include back extensor muscle strength, endurance, and thickness, while the secondary outcomes will focus on thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis, FoF, and QoL. Data will be analyzed using SPSS version 22.

Results: The study has received ethical approval (IR.TUMS.FNM.REC.1401.194) and is registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT20230315057723N1). Results are expected by mid-2025.

Conclusion: This study aims to explore the synergistic effects of dry needling and exercise therapy, potentially improving treatment outcomes for postmenopausal women with osteoporosis, reduce fracture risks, and enhance QoL.

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Main Subjects

The Archives of Bone and Joint Surgery

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 03 November 2025

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History

  • Receive Date: 12 May 2025
  • Revise Date:
  • Accept Date: 22 July 2025

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