Dry needling offers hope for stroke survivors with muscle stiffness

This study tests whether dry needling (inserting thin needles into tight muscles) can reduce spasticity—stiffness that makes movement hard—in people who have had a stroke. About 28 adults who can walk independently will receive either real or sham (fake) needling once a week for four weeks. Researchers will measure muscle activity, stiffness, and walking ability to see if the treatment helps.