NCT06394310 · University of Kansas Medical Center
Dry Needling in Multiple Sclerosis
What this study is about
The investigators are doing this study to see if a treatment called dry needling improves muscle spasticity (muscle tightness) in people who have Multiple Sclerosis. Dry needling involves using tiny needles, like those in acupuncture, to target some muscles, like calf muscles.
View original scientific description
The investigators are doing this study to see if a treatment called dry needling improves muscle spasticity (muscle tightness) in people who have Multiple Sclerosis. Dry needling involves using tiny needles, like those in acupuncture, to target some muscles, like calf muscles. It differs from traditional acupuncture as it focuses on treating or managing muscle spots, aiming to reduce muscle stiffness and pain. Dry needling may offer a minimally-invasive and medication-free approach to improve muscle spasticity. The investigators hope to see if dry needling also helps enhance balance and walking abilities. This might provide potential improvements inoverall mobility and balance.
Interventions
DEVICE
Dry needling
The dry needling technique will employ in the current proposed study follows the standard technique for needling patients with spasticity
DEVICE
Sham dry needling
In the control group, The investigators will use the methods proposed by Cushman et al. to apply sham dry needling (DN) to our participants
Primary outcome measures
Spasticity
Time frame: 5 weeks
Spasticity will be assessed through the Modified Ashworth scale (Scored between 0 to 4, with higher scores show higher level of spasticity)
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Age 18 to 64 years
- Clinical diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis based on the McDonald Criteria
- Spasticity in their lower legs
- Patient Determined Disease Steps (PDDS) score of 5 or below
Exclusion criteria
- Inability to communicate effectively with study personnel
- Needle phobia
- Severe varicose veins
- Presence of an active implanted device
- Any active cancer or history within 1 year
- known or suspected infection at the site of needling or in the surrounding area
- Presence of a fixed plantarflexion contracture at the ankle
- Acute fracture of dislocation in the region (bilateral lower extremity)
- Deep vein thrombosis or peripheral vascular disease
- Thrombophlebitis, or active osteomyelitis in the region (bilateral lower extremity)
- Any medication changes, including antispastic medicines, for the past three months.
Where
- Kansas City, Kansas
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 11, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations