Effectiveness of Dry Needling for Chronic Low Back Pain: An Up-to-Date Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

This meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness of dry needling (DN) for chronic low back pain (CLBP) by synthesizing data from 13 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 590 participants. Primary outcomes included pain intensity (Visual Analog Scale [VAS] or Numeric Pain Rating Scale [NPRS]), functional disability (Oswestry Disability Index [ODI] or Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire [RMDQ]), and pressure pain threshold (PPT). Secondary outcomes assessed quality of life, flexibility, mobility, and psychological factors. A systematic search and random-effects model analysis found that DN significantly reduced pain intensity (SMD = -0.78; 95% CI: -1.05 to -0.52) and improved functional disability (SMD = -0.64; 95% CI: -0.91 to -0.37). Moderate PPT improvements were noted (SMD = 0.48; 95% CI: 0.21 to 0.75). Moderate to high heterogeneity (I² = 55%-70%) suggested variability in DN protocols and study designs. Subgroup analyses indicated DN combined with physical therapy yielded better functional outcomes than DN alone. While DN shows promise for short-term relief of CLBP, standardized protocols and long-term efficacy studies are needed. PERSPECTIVE This meta-analysis highlights dry needling's potential for reducing pain and improving function in CLBP management, supporting its integration into multimodal treatment strategies.