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Morphological Characteristics of the Upper and Lower Extremities Using Ultrasound Examination After Stroke.
Sponsor: Universidad de La Frontera
Summary
Introduction A large number of stroke patients develop spasticity in the upper and lower extremities, which is one of the clinical signs of damage to motor neuron 1, causing abnormal postures and movement patterns due to motor neuron hyperexcitability and rheological alterations in the affected muscles. These alterations limit the use of the arm and leg, restricting their use in functional activities and affecting the quality of life and social participation of users. In recent years, the Heckmann scale has been used to evaluate spastic muscle alterations by ultrasound; however, evidence is limited regarding its benefits as an assessment tool for spastic hypertonia. Objective To describe the morphological characteristics of spastic muscles in the lower extremities using ultrasound examination in subjects after stroke. Method A prospective, multicenter descriptive study will be conducted. The sample will be non-probabilistic, consisting of 80 subjects who meet the eligibility criteria and provide informed consent. Analysis of results Using the SPSS 27 program, a descriptive analysis will be performed using statistical indices of central tendency, dispersion, and distribution according to the measurement scale of each variable. The normality of the distribution of continuous variables will be investigated. In addition, a bivariate correlation analysis (ANOVA) will be performed. The significance level will be 0.05. Expected Results It will provide updated evidence in the field of assessing the state of spastic muscles in subjects with neurological damage, a situation that will guide the therapeutic process and may improve the patient's prognosis and quality of life.
Official title: Morphological Characteristics of Spastic Musculature in the Upper and Lower Extremities Using Ultrasound Examination in Subjects After Stroke
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - 80 Years
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
80
Start Date
2025-03-01
Completion Date
2025-12-31
Last Updated
2025-11-19
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Ultrasound diagnostics
Non-invasive ultrasound evaluation of the upper limb on the hemiplegic side (Ekipomed Portable Ultrasound) to determine its pathological morphology (thickness, fiber orientation, and echogenicity) using the modified Heckmatt scale. This procedure will be performed by a physician who is an expert in muscle ultrasound.
Locations (2)
Universidad de La Frontera
Temuco, Región de la Araucanía, Chile
Universidad de La Frontera
Temuco, Chile