Effects of Extracorporeal Shock Wave for Upper Limb Flexor Spasticity in Stroke Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are exploring the use of focused Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) to treat upper limb spasticity in patients who have experienced a stroke. This study evaluates the therapy's effects specifically on the wrist and finger flexor muscles, aiming to improve muscle tone and function. The trial is a randomized, controlled investigation sponsored by National Taiwan University Hospital, targeting adults with post-stroke spasticity. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group receives focused ESWT targeting three forearm muscles: flexor carpi ulnaris, flexor carpi radialis, and flexor digitorum superficialis. Each muscle is treated with 1,500 shockwave pulses per session, with sessions conducted twice a week for two weeks, totaling four treatments. The control group undergoes a placebo procedure mimicking the therapy without active shockwaves. Throughout the study, participants undergo assessments before treatment and at 1, 4, 12, and 24 weeks after therapy. These evaluations include measures of wrist and finger joint movement, hand grip strength, pain levels, muscle spasticity using established scales, functional ability, and daily living activities. Additional tests involve ultrasound and electromyography to observe muscle changes. The study monitors both immediate and lasting effects of the therapy on upper limb function and spasticity.

FlexWave Trial: Efficacy of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy in Post-Stroke Upper Limb Spasticity