Effect of DFM on Quadriceps Spasticity in Stroke Patients

Effect of Deep Friction Massage on Quadriceps Spasticity in Patients With Sub-acute Stroke

The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if deep friction massage works to reduce quadriceps muscle spasticity in adults with sub-acute Stroke. It will also learn about the effectiveness of this technique in improving lower limb motor function and mobility.

The main questions it aims to answer are:

• Does deep friction massage reduce quadriceps spasticity in stroke patients as measured by the Modified Ashworth Scale?
• Does deep friction massage improve lower limb motor recovery as measured by the Fugl-Meyer Assessment?
• Does deep friction massage improve functional mobility as measured by the Timed Up and Go Test?

Researchers will compare deep friction massage combined with conventional physiotherapy to conventional physiotherapy alone to see if deep friction massage improves spasticity and functional outcomes in patients with stroke.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age ≥ 40 years
• Ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke diagnosis.
• Subacute stage (1-6 months after stroke)
• Quadriceps spasticity (Modified Ashworth Scale 1 or above)
• Walking with or without assistive aids.
• Stable health-wise and can be involved in rehabilitation.

Exclusion Criteria:

• The participants were not allowed in case they had:
• Severe mental failure (MMSE score under 24)
• Lower limb musculoskeletal or other neurological disorders.
• Contraindications to massage therapy (e.g. thrombosis, skin infection, fracture)
• Weakened or no spasticity of the quadriceps.
• Extreme medical instability inability to take part.