Effects of Dry Needling on Spasticity and Functional Ability

Not Applicable

Recruiting

• Conditions: Cerebral Palsy (CP)

• Registration Number: NCT06856473
• Lead Sponsor: Batterjee Medical College

Brief Summary

This study investigates the effects of dry needling on spasticity and its impact on functional ability in individuals with neuromuscular disorders. Using the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, and Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM), the research evaluates changes in muscle tone, mobility, and overall motor performance following dry needling intervention. The findings aim to provide evidence on the clinical benefits of dry needling as a therapeutic approach for improving movement efficiency and functional outcomes in patients with spasticity.

Detailed Description

Spasticity is a common impairment in individuals with neuromuscular disorders, often leading to limitations in movement, balance, and overall functional performance. Dry needling has emerged as a promising intervention for managing spasticity by targeting hyperactive muscle fibers and reducing abnormal muscle tone. This study aims to explore the therapeutic effects of dry needling on muscle spasticity and functional ability using standardized clinical measures.

Participants will undergo pre- and post-intervention assessments using the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) to quantify changes in muscle tone, the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test to evaluate mobility and balance, and the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM) to assess functional motor skills. The intervention will focus on specific muscle groups affected by spasticity.

By analyzing the relationship between changes in spasticity and functional mobility, this study seeks to determine whether dry needling contributes to measurable improvements in movement efficiency, postural control, and daily functional activities. The findings will provide valuable insights into the role of dry needling as an adjunct therapy in rehabilitation programs, supporting its integration into clinical practice for individuals with neuromuscular disorders.

Study Timeline

• Status Verified: 2025-02
• Study Start: 2025-02-20
• Study First Submitted: 2025-02-23
• Study First Submitted QC: 2025-02-26
• Last Update Submitted: 2025-03-03
• Study First Posted: 2025-03-04
• Last Update Posted: 2025-03-05
• Primary Completion: 2025-05-30
• Study Completion: 2025-06-25

Recruitment & Eligibility

• Status: RECRUITING
• Sex: All
• Target Recruitment: 30

Inclusion Criteria

• Hypertonia score 2 according to MAS
• Able to understand and follow instructions
• Able to stand and walk independantly

Exclusion Criteria

• Participants with neurological conditions that involve significant cognitive deficits or severe uncontrolled epilepsy
• Participants who have undergone surgical procedures within the last 3 months

Study & Design

• Study Type: INTERVENTIONAL
• Study Design: PARALLEL

Primary Outcome Measures

Name	Time	Method
Modified Ashwarth Scale (MAS)	Week 12 after intervention completion	The MAS measures spasticity on a 6-point ordinal scale from 0 to 4, with an additional 1+ category. Minimum Value (0): No increase in muscle tone (better outcome). Maximum Value (4): Affected part(s) rigid in flexion or extension (worse outcome). Higher scores indicate greater spasticity, representing a worse outcome.

Secondary Outcome Measures

Name	Time	Method
Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM)	Week 12 after intervention completion.	The GMFM is scored on a 0 to 100% scale, reflecting the percentage of motor tasks successfully performed. Minimum Value (0%): No motor function achieved (worse outcome). Maximum Value (100%): Full achievement of all motor tasks (better outcome). Higher scores indicate better gross motor function and improved mobility.
Time up and go test (TUG)	Week 12 after intervention completion	The TUG test measures the time (in seconds) taken to stand up from a chair, walk 3 meters, turn around, walk back, and sit down. Minimum Value (lower time in seconds): Faster completion time indicates better mobility and functional performance. Maximum Value (higher time in seconds): Slower completion time indicates impaired mobility and a higher risk of falls (worse outcome).

Trial Locations

Locations (1)

BMC; 🇸🇦 Jeddah, Saudi Arabia