Reducing Spasticity Without Needles

Many stroke survivors suffer with painful muscle spasticity.  

For example, the photo shows that spasticity can force stroke survivors to point their toes every time they straighten their knee to take a step.  Spasticity has been treated with Botox shots and repeatedly sticking needles into the painful area (needling).  

Researchers found a less painful way to treat spasticity (1).          Both the experimental group (n=25) and control group (n=25) got 30 minutes of exercise followed by 30 minutes of wearing a TENS unit that provided relaxing muscle stimulation.  The experimental group then had their ankles taped in the bent position to stop them from pointing their foot.  The tape was replaced every day.  Treatment was given 5 days a week for 6 weeks.

After treatment both groups showed reduced ankle spasticity and faster gait.  However, the group that also had their ankle taped improved significantly more (p < 0.05).  Creating a less painful way to treat a painful condition would be my preference.  homeafterstroke.blogspot.com

1. Tae-Sung In, Jin-Wae Jung, Kyoung-Sim Jung, Hwi-Young Cho. Effectiveness of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation with taping for stroke rehabilitation.  Biomed Research International. 2021; Article ID 9912094. doi:10.1155/2021/99112094.