About this trial
The investigators are doing this study to see if a treatment called dry needling improves muscle spasticity (muscle tightness) in people who have Multiple Sclerosis. Dry needling involves using tiny needles, like those in acupuncture, to target some muscles, like calf muscles. It differs from traditional acupuncture as it focuses on treating or managing muscle spots, aiming to reduce muscle stiffness and pain. Dry needling may offer a minimally-invasive and medication-free approach to improve muscle spasticity. The investigators hope to see if dry needling also helps enhance balance and walking abilities. This might provide potential improvements inoverall mobility and balance.
Eligibility criteria
Qualifiers
Age 18 to 64 years
Clinical diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis based on the McDonald Criteria
Spasticity in their lower legs
Patient Determined Disease Steps (PDDS) score of 5 or below
Disqualifiers
Inability to communicate effectively with study personnel
Needle phobia
Severe varicose veins
Presence of an active implanted device
Trial design
Treatments tested in this trial
- Dry needling
- Sham dry needling