Acupuncture therapy for post-stroke spasticity: a systematic review and exploratory network meta-analysis of clinical efficacy and dose–response relationship - Report - MDSpire
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Acupuncture therapy for post-stroke spasticity: a systematic review and exploratory network meta-analysis of clinical efficacy and dose–response relationship
Clinical Report: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Acupuncture for Spasticity Following Stroke
Overview
This systematic review and network meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of various acupuncture techniques for post-stroke spasticity (PSS) in 3,383 patients. Findings indicate that acupuncture significantly improves spasticity and motor function, with warm acupuncture and high-dose treatments showing the best outcomes.
Background
Post-stroke spasticity (PSS) is a common and debilitating condition affecting a significant proportion of stroke survivors, leading to reduced quality of life. Traditional pharmacological treatments for spasticity can have adverse effects, highlighting the need for effective alternative therapies. Acupuncture has emerged as a recognized complementary treatment for PSS, yet comprehensive evaluations of its efficacy and optimal application are limited.
Data Highlights
Outcome Measure
Mean Difference (MD)
95% Confidence Interval (CI)
p-value
Fugl-Meyer Assessment (Upper)
0.87
(0.68, 1.07)
<0.001
Fugl-Meyer Assessment (Lower)
1.00
(0.73, 1.27)
<0.001
Modified Ashworth Scale
-1.03
(-1.32, -0.75)
<0.001
Modified Barthel Index
0.89
(0.68, 1.10)
<0.001
Key Findings
Acupuncture significantly improved Fugl-Meyer Assessment scores in PSS patients.
Warm acupuncture (WA) and high-dose acupuncture showed the highest probability of improving spasticity scores.
Adverse events related to acupuncture included mild pain, nausea, and dizziness.
The network meta-analysis included 34 trials and 3,383 patients.
Acupuncture is recognized as a Grade B recommended intervention for PSS in clinical guidelines.
Clinical Implications
Acupuncture may serve as an effective complementary therapy for managing post-stroke spasticity, particularly with warm acupuncture and higher doses. Clinicians should consider incorporating acupuncture into rehabilitation strategies for stroke patients experiencing spasticity.
Conclusion
Acupuncture demonstrates potential benefits in improving spasticity and motor function in stroke patients, although the certainty of evidence remains limited. Further research is warranted to solidify these findings.
