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NCT Number: NCT07091708

EFFECT OF ELECTROACUPUNCTURE ON COMPLEX REGIONAL PAIN SYNDROME IN PATIENTS WITH STROKE: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a condition marked by pain that may occur spontaneously or in response to stimuli, often disproportionate to the initial injury.(Chae, 2010). In post-stroke complex regional pain syndrome, patients often have simultaneous shoulder and wrist pain. Symptoms may include edema, increased warmth in the hand, and limited in upper extremity joints. (Yu, 2009).The significance of post-stroke complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) lies not only in its profound impact on pain perception but also in its broader effects on patients' quality of life.(de mos et al.,2007) Managing complex regional pain syndrome involves a multidisciplinary approach with key physical therapy elements like elevation, massage, range of motion exercises, strengthening, and sensory re-education.(Sethy et al., 2017). Electrotherapy modalities include transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. (Palmer, 2015). This includes heat treatments like ultrasound, hot and cold packs, and fluidotherapy

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Key information

Conditions

Stroke Brain Diseases Cardiovascular Diseases Central Nervous System Diseases Cerebrovascular Disorders Nervous System Diseases Vascular Diseases

Age range

45 year–60 year

Sex eligibility

All sexes

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

About this study

In this sense,acupuncture, presents a viable alternative to opioid analgesics for pain relief, offering effective treatment without the risk of dependency. one specific technique, electroacupuncture (ea), enhances traditional acupuncture by applying a small electric current between pairs of needles. research indicates that ea may alleviate pain by activating various bioactive chemicals, engaging multiple mechanisms at the peripheral, spinal, and supraspinal levels. this makes electroacupuncture a promising option for individuals seeking non-addictive pain management solutions.( zhang r, et al 2014).

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: No

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

Inclusion criteria

  • 1. The study involved forty patients male and female aged between 45 and 65 years. 2. A confirmed diagnosis of complex regional pain syndrome through clinical assessment by neurologist using The Budapest criteria for diagnosis of CRPS (Choi et al ., 2013

Exclusion criteria

  • 1. Pre-existing history of hand problems and shoulder dysfunction prior to experiencing a stroke . 2. Those with an overactive sympathetic system from alternative causes eg.congestive heart failure,chronic kidney disease(Reynolds & Minic, 2023) 8 3. individuals with significant musculoskeletal disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis or metabolic disorders including diabetes 4. Pregnancy

Treatment and study plan

Acupuncture

Other

Acupuncture

Primary outcomes

  1. Visual analogue scale

    Time frame: 5 min

    Visual analogue scale (VAS) is valuable tool for assessing the intensity and frequency of symptoms, particularly pain.

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

Cairo University

Other

Registry information

Important dates

Study start
2025
Primary completion
2025
Study completion
2026
First posted
Jul 29, 2025
Registry last updated
Jul 29, 2025

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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