Study of Dry Needling Effects on Muscle Activity and Ultrasound Features in Adults with Post-Stroke Spasticity

What this Trial Is About

Stroke affects many people worldwide and often leads to spasticity, which can cause disability and difficulty with movement. This research investigates how dry needling might impact muscle activity and structure in stroke patients with spasticity. The study aims to provide objective data using electromyographic and ultrasound assessments to complement traditional clinical evaluations and improve treatment approaches for these patients. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups one receiving ultrasound-guided dry needling and the other receiving a sham dry needling procedure. Both groups will undergo four weekly sessions targeting the gastrocnemius muscle. Usual care, including motor rehabilitation exercises like strength training and gait practice, will continue throughout the study. During the study, muscle spasticity, electromyographic activity, and muscle structure will be measured at baseline and after each session. Gait parameters will be evaluated before the first and after the last session. These assessments include muscle thickness, contraction capacity, and walking tests to understand the effects of dry needling better. The study will last approximately four weeks for each participant, with detailed monitoring of muscle and gait changes.

Effects of Dry Needling on Electromyographic Activity and Ultrasonographic Characteristics in Post-Stroke Spasticity