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Effectiveness of Extra-corporeal Shockwave Diathermy in the Management of Upper Limb Function Patients With Stroke.
Sponsor: Gulf Medical University
Summary
Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. A major complication of stroke is spasticity, marked by increased muscle tone and impaired movement. It affects majority stroke patients and complicates rehabilitation, affecting the upper limb function of survivors. While traditional treatments like oral medications and botulinum toxin injections offer some relief, they have notable limitations, causing the need for novel, non-invasive approaches. Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), which uses acoustic waves for regeneration and neuromodulation, has shown promise in reducing spasticity with minimal side effects, though its precise mechanisms and ideal protocols need further study. Current evidence supports ESWT's efficacy and safety, often matching established treatments, but gaps remain regarding standardized application and long-term functional outcomes, highlighting the need for more robust research.
Official title: Effectiveness of Extra-corporeal Shockwave Diathermy in the Management of Upper Limb Function Patients With Stroke: Randomized Controlled Trial.
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - 65 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
50
Start Date
2025-10-30
Completion Date
2026-06-30
Last Updated
2026-04-09
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
ESWT
Target muscles: biceps brachii, flexor carpi radialis, pronator teres, wrist and finger flexors. Protocol: 2000 shocks per muscle per session, energy flux density 0.03 mJ/mm², frequency 8 Hz, pressure \~0.2 MPa (2 bars).(1)
Stretching
Sustained stretches held for 10 seconds, 3-5 repetitions per muscle group
Mobility
Active and passive range of motion (ROM) exercises, 10-15 reps
Strengthening
Isometric/ Isotonic exercises for antagonist muscles, 3 sets of 10-15 reps
Functional training
Task-oriented activities ADLs. Eg: grasping, reaching, manipulation, 20-30 minutes per session
Locations (1)
Gulf Medical University
Ajman, Ajman Emirate, United Arab Emirates