Testing needle therapy to ease muscle tightness in multiple sclerosis

Researchers at the University of Kansas are testing whether dry needling can help reduce muscle stiffness (called spasticity) in people with multiple sclerosis. Dry needling uses thin needles similar to those in acupuncture, but it targets specific tight muscle spots in the legs rather than traditional acupuncture points. The study hopes this treatment might also help improve balance and walking ability without requiring medication.

Many people with multiple sclerosis experience painful muscle tightness that makes movement difficult and affects their quality of life. Current treatments often rely on medications, so researchers want to see if dry needling could offer a medication-free option that is minimally invasive and might work better for some patients.