Effectiveness of Xingnao Kaiqiao Acupuncture Compared to Electroacupuncture in Improving Upper Limb Function in Early Stroke Rehabilitation: A Randomized Controlled Trial
This is a single-center interventional study conducted at the Ho Chi Minh City Hospital for Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, led by investigators from the University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a specific acupuncture protocol (Xingnao Kaiqiao - Brain Awakening Acupuncture) in improving upper limb motor recovery in post-ischemic stroke patients during the early rehabilitation phase. Data collection has been completed, and the study is currently being registered on ClinicalTrials.gov to ensure research transparency, ethical compliance, and to facilitate future publication. The final results and publication will be updated once the study receives a registration number.
• Patients aged 40 to 80 years
• Diagnosed with ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke confirmed by CT or MRI
• Stroke onset between 1 and 6 months prior to enrollment
• Moderate to severe upper limb motor impairment (FMA-UE score between 20 and 60)
• Medically stable and able to attend treatment sessions 3 times per week
• Capable of understanding the study procedures and providing informed consent