Effects Of Dry Needling On Mobility Among Children With Cerebral Palsy

Effects of Dry Needling on Spasticity, Range of Motion, and Functional Mobility Among Children With Cerebral Palsy

This study explores the potential of dry needling as a treatment for spasticity in the foot among children with cerebral palsy (CP). Dry needling involves inserting fine needles into specific trigger points or tight muscles without injecting any substances, aiming to relieve pain, improve muscle function, and promote tissue healing. In CP-related foot spasticity, dry needling may target hypertonic muscles, inducing a local twitch response that helps release muscle tension, reduce spasticity, and enhance overall muscle function. The technique may also stimulate sensory nerves and trigger the release of endorphins, contributing to pain relief and muscle relaxation.

While dry needling has shown effectiveness in reducing spasticity and improving muscle function in adults with conditions such as post-stroke, there is limited research on its benefits for children with CP. This randomized controlled trial aims to address this gap by evaluating the impact of dry needling on spasticity, range of motion, and functional mobility in children with CP.

The study will be conducted at Bliss Center of Care and Therapy in Faisalabad, involving 38 participants aged 6 to 12 years, all diagnosed with spastic cerebral palsy and classified under the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels I-II. Participants will be divided into two groups: an experimental group receiving dry needling therapy (DNT) and routine physical therapy (RPT) and a control group receiving RPT only. Critical exclusion criteria include recent interventions, bleeding disorders, fixed joint deformities, recent seizures, Botulinum Toxin injections, or contraindications to dry needling.

Outcomes will be measured using the Wartenberg Pendulum Test, Active and Passive Ankle Dorsiflexion Range of Motion, and the Timed Up and Go Test, which will be assessed before and after a 10-week intervention. Data will be analyzed using SPSS version 23.0 to determine the efficacy of dry needling in managing spasticity in children with CP.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age: 6 to 12 years old
• Walking ability at Gross Motor Function Classification System levels I to II
• Modified Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) score higher than equal to 1 (score up to 2)
• Ability to understand and execute orders
• No ongoing rehabilitation intervention

Exclusion Criteria:

• Recent introduction of a new intervention in addition to previous treatments
• Presence of bleeding disorders or skin conditions
• Skin sensitivity issues
• History of seizures within the past six months
• Previous administration of BTX-A injection within the last 6 months
• Presence of
• contraindications to dry needling
• Lack of consent to participate in the study