Validation of a Placebo Dry Needling Protocol in Patients With Non-specific Neck Pain

This study aims to validate a placebo dry needling protocol for patients with non-specific neck pain and investigate whether prior experience with dry needling affects their ability to distinguish between real and placebo treatments, and how this impacts outcomes. Seventy participants aged 18-65 will be recruited and divided into two groups based on their previous dry needling experience, then randomized into real or placebo needling groups. Assessment will be carried out before treatment, immediately after the procedure and one week later. Pain intensity, pain threshold to pressure, cervical range of motion, level of disability and presence of central sensitisation will also be measured.