Sound waves vs. stroke spasticity: scientists probe how it works
NCT ID NCT06311526
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This pilot study looked at how focused sound waves (shock wave therapy) reduce muscle tightness in the arm after a stroke. Twelve adults who had a stroke at least six months ago received the treatment. Researchers measured changes in muscle stiffness, nerve signals, and arm function to see whether the therapy works by altering muscle tissue or by calming overactive nerves. Understanding this could help tailor the treatment to the right patients in the future.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (sound wave pulses applied to spastic muscles)
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could help doctors choose the best patients for shock wave therapy based on muscle or nerve tests, making treatment more personalized.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very small pilot study (12 people) with no control group, so results may not apply broadly. The therapy's effects are temporary (up to 12 weeks) and the mechanism remains uncertain.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano
Milan, MI, 20122, Italy
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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
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