Using shock waves to treat spasticity in stroke patients
Mechanism of Action of Focal Extracorporeal Shock Waves as a Treatment of Upper Limb Stroke Spasticity: a Pilot Study
This study tests if shock wave therapy can help reduce muscle stiffness in stroke survivors to make daily activities easier.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 12 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Istituto Auxologico Italiano Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Milano, MI) |
| Trial ID | NCT06311526 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of focal extracorporeal shock wave therapy on spasticity in patients who have experienced a stroke. It aims to understand the mechanism of action of shock waves in reducing upper limb spasticity, which can significantly impair daily activities. Participants will receive a series of shock wave treatments, and their spasticity levels will be assessed to evaluate the therapy's effectiveness. The study focuses on patients who have had a stroke at least six months prior and exhibit specific levels of spasticity.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 18 who have experienced their first hemispheric stroke at least six months ago and have spasticity in their wrist and elbow flexor muscles.
Not a fit: Patients currently on anticoagulant medication or with other major neurological diseases may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly improve motor function and quality of life for stroke survivors suffering from spasticity.
How similar studies have performed: Previous systematic reviews have indicated that shock wave therapy can effectively improve spasticity, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria * age \> 18 years * first hemispheric stroke at least six months ago * spasticity of wrist and elbow flexors muscles with grade 1 to 3 of the Modified Ashworth Scal * no botulinum toxin injection in the previous six months * ability to give informed consent Exclusion criteria * anticoagulant medicine * presence of a pacemaker, an implantable cardioverter defibrillator or other medical devices * active cancer * skin lesions at the site of shock wave administration * an major neurological disease in addition to the hemiparesis (e.g. spastic hemiparesis in a patient who had Parkinson's disease before their stroke).
Where this trial is running
Milano, MI
- IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano — Milano, Mi, Italy (Recruiting)
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.