Using dry needling to treat muscle tightness in people with Multiple Sclerosis

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effectiveness of dry needling as a treatment for muscle spasticity in individuals diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Dry needling involves the insertion of thin needles into specific muscle areas to alleviate tightness and pain, differing from traditional acupuncture by focusing on muscle management. The study aims to determine if this minimally-invasive technique can improve not only muscle stiffness but also enhance balance and walking abilities, potentially leading to better overall mobility. Participants will be compared against a sham dry needling group to assess the treatment's efficacy.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 18 to 64 years
* Clinical diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis based on the McDonald Criteria
* Spasticity in their lower legs
* Patient Determined Disease Steps (PDDS) score of 5 or below

Exclusion Criteria:

* Inability to communicate effectively with study personnel
* Needle phobia
* Severe varicose veins
* Presence of an active implanted device
* Pregnancy
* Any active cancer or history within 1 year
* known or suspected infection at the site of needling or in the surrounding area
* Presence of a fixed plantarflexion contracture at the ankle
* Acute fracture of dislocation in the region (bilateral lower extremity)
* Deep vein thrombosis or peripheral vascular disease
* Thrombophlebitis, or active osteomyelitis in the region (bilateral lower extremity)
* Any medication changes, including antispastic medicines, for the past three months.

Where it's running

• Mobility and Falls Lab
  Kansas City, Kansas, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Abbas TABATABAEI, PhD
• Email: stabatabaeihalavi@kumc.edu
• Phone: 913-588-3715

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.