Effects of Dry Needling on Spasticity and Functional Ability

Purpose

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.

Condition

  • Cerebral Palsy (CP)

Eligibility

Eligible Ages
Over 6 Years
Eligible Genders
All
Accepts Healthy Volunteers
No

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

Phase
N/A
Study Type
Interventional
Allocation
Randomized
Intervention Model
Parallel Assignment
Intervention Model Description
The study follows a randomized controlled trial (RCT) design with a parallel-group interventional model to evaluate the effects of dry needling on spasticity and functional outcomes. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups: Study Group (Intervention Group): Receives dry needling for the spastic calf and adductor muscles in addition to a traditional physical therapy program based on Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT) (3 sessions per week, each lasting 1 hour). Control Group: Receives only the traditional physical therapy program (NDT) without dry needling, following the same frequency and duration.
Primary Purpose
Treatment
Masking
Single (Outcomes Assessor)

Arm Groups

ArmDescriptionAssigned Intervention
Active Comparator
Traditional physical therapy Group 		Traditional physical therapy program based on neurodevelopmental treatment (NDT) (3 sessions per week, each lasting 1 hour).
  • Other: Traditional Physical Therapy
    Traditional Physical Therapy based on neurodevelopmental technique
    Other names:
    • Conventional physical therapy
Experimental
Dry needling Group 		traditional physical therapy program based on neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT) (3 sessions per week, each lasting 1 hour), in addition to dry needling for the spastic calf and adductor muscles.
  • Other: Traditional Physical Therapy
    Traditional Physical Therapy based on neurodevelopmental technique
    Other names:
    • Conventional physical therapy
  • Other: Dry Needling
    Dry Needling in addition to the same traditional physical therapy program
    Other names:
    • Study group

More Details

Status
Recruiting
Sponsor
Batterjee Medical College

Study Contact

Mohamed A Abdel Ghafar, PhD.
966531513909
pt12.jed@bmc.edu.sa

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.