Cupping therapy for improving movement after stroke
The Effect of Cupping on Spasticity and Function of the Lower Extremity During Rehabilitation After Stroke
This study is testing if dry cupping therapy can help stroke patients move better and reduce stiffness in their legs during rehabilitation.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 30 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Ascension Health Industry-sponsored |
| Locations | 1 site (Joliet, Illinois) |
| Trial ID | NCT06653855 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of dry static cupping on spasticity and functional recovery in the lower extremities of stroke patients undergoing rehabilitation. Participants will receive either dry static cupping, placebo cupping, or standard physical therapy treatment. The goal is to determine if cupping can effectively reduce spasticity and improve mobility in patients who have experienced a stroke. This research aims to fill the gap in existing literature regarding the use of cupping for central nervous system conditions, particularly focusing on the lower extremities.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 30-80 who have experienced an acute stroke within the last six months and have spasticity and hemiparesis in their lower extremities.
Not a fit: Patients with significant cognitive impairment, those on anticoagulant medications, or individuals with certain medical conditions such as uncontrolled hypertension or diabetes may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a new therapeutic option for improving mobility and reducing spasticity in stroke patients.
How similar studies have performed: While some studies have shown cupping to be beneficial for rehabilitation after stroke, this specific approach focusing on lower extremity spasticity is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 30-80 * Acute stroke (within 6 months of stroke), with spasticity \& hemiparesis of LE * Referred by doctor for rehabilitation for a stroke-related condition * Attending Ascension Rehabilitation of Joliet for rehabilitation * Able to read or verbally understand English or Spanish Exclusion Criteria: * Absent sensation of the areas to be cupped * Significant cognitive impairment * Pregnancy * Prescription anticoagulant medications * Blood clotting disorder * Uncontrolled hypertension * Uncontrolled diabetes * Open wounds within the cupping area * Current DVT * Hematoma over the cupping area * Fracture over the cupping area * Active cancer within the cupping area * Current use of Baclofen * Current use of Botox * Current use of an anti-spasticity medication
Where this trial is running
Joliet, Illinois
- Ascension Rehabilitation of Joliet — Joliet, Illinois, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Scott Getsoian
- Email: sgetsoian@govst.edu
- Phone: 815-735-9261
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.