Deep dry needling improves leg stiffness in stroke survivors

This study investigated the effects of deep dry needling (DDN) in patients with stroke and leg spasticity (stiffness). Researchers suggested that DDN decreases leg muscle spasticity in stroke survivors.

Each year, 15 million people worldwide suffer a stroke. Stroke is a result of a decrease in blood flow to the brain. This can happen due to a blockage caused by a blood clot or a burst blood vessel. Brain cells stop receiving oxygen and begin to die, not being able to control body functions anymore. It is a serious condition that leads to long-term disabilities. Disability affects 75% of stroke survivors. This causes limitations to daily activities and quality of life.  

Spasticity is the leading cause of disability (60%) in these patients. Leg spasticity results in limitations in walking and standing and therefore is associated with a decrease in independence. Spasticity is currently treated with drugs that are often associated with side effects.

Prior studies showed that DDN is associated with improved outcomes in treating muscle disabilities. This therapy uses a thin needle to penetrate the skin and activate certain muscle areas. This therapy improves pain relief and functional improvement. However, the effectiveness of this therapy in leg spasticity in stroke survivors is not clear.

This study included information 24 stroke survivors with leg spasticity. These patients were assigned to receive DDN or placebo therapy (with no effect on the body). Participants were followed-up at the start of the therapy, at 1 week and at 1 month after the end of therapy.

There were significant improvements in muscle function, walking, and daily activity in the DDN group when compared to placebo. However, no significant improvement was seen in the ankle flexion movement.

This study concluded that DDN improves leg spasticity in stroke survivors, improving their walking capacity and quality of life.

This study included a limited number of participants and a short follow-up period. Further studies with bigger populations and longer follow-up are necessary.