Dry needling may unlock stiff muscles after stroke

NCT ID NCT04535479

Ongoing Symptom relief Sponsor: Medical University of South Carolina Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 08, 2026 · Last updated Jul 09, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study explores whether dry needling — a technique where thin needles are inserted into tight muscles to trigger a twitch — can reduce spasticity (stiffness) in people who have had a stroke. Researchers will measure changes in nerve pathways and movement over two visits. The goal is to see if this simple procedure can improve arm and leg function.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Dry needling
What this could lead to: If it works, dry needling could become a simple, drug-free way to ease muscle stiffness and improve arm or leg movement after a stroke.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study with only 32 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. Dry needling may cause temporary soreness or bruising.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Muscle Spasticity Neurologic Manifestations stroke disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

MUSCLE SPASTICITY STROKE

Contacts and locations

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Locations

Medical University of South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina, 29405, United States

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