Shock Wave Therapy for Muscle Stiffness After Stroke

This trial is testing whether extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT)—a non-invasive treatment that uses targeted sound waves—can help reduce muscle stiffness in the wrist after stroke. Half of participants will receive this shock wave treatment plus standard physical therapy, while the other half will receive physical therapy alone. The study will measure whether the shock wave treatment helps reduce stiffness and improve how well the wrist muscles work.

After a stroke, many people develop spasticity—painful muscle stiffness that limits movement and quality of life. Current treatments like medications and injections can have side effects or be expensive, so doctors are looking for safer, more affordable options. This trial is testing whether shock wave therapy could be a new solution.