Key Finding
Governor Vessel moxibustion combined with rehabilitation training significantly reduced poststroke muscle spasticity with optimal results achieved through 60-minute weekly sessions for at least 8 weeks.
Muscle spasticity—persistent muscle tightness and stiffness—is a common problem after stroke that significantly affects daily activities and quality of life. Researchers reviewed 11 clinical trials involving 859 stroke patients to determine whether Governor Vessel moxibustion combined with standard rehabilitation therapy could help reduce this spasticity. Governor Vessel moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that applies heat from burning herbs along the spine's central meridian. The study found that patients who received Governor Vessel moxibustion alongside their regular rehabilitation exercises experienced significantly greater reduction in muscle spasticity compared to those who only did rehabilitation exercises. The researchers measured spasticity using two standard assessment scales, and both showed meaningful improvements. The analysis suggested that the most effective treatment protocol consisted of 60-minute moxibustion sessions once weekly for at least 8 weeks. Side effects reported in the studies were generally mild. While these results are promising for stroke survivors struggling with muscle tightness, the researchers noted that more high-quality studies are needed before making definitive clinical recommendations. For stroke patients experiencing spasticity, this complementary therapy may offer additional relief when combined with conventional rehabilitation, though individual results may vary. If considering moxibustion for poststroke spasticity, consult with a licensed acupuncturist or qualified traditional Chinese medicine practitioner experienced in treating neurological conditions.
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated Governor Vessel moxibustion (GVM) combined with routine rehabilitation for poststroke spasticity (PSS). Eleven RCTs with 859 patients were analyzed using Cochrane RoB 2.0 assessment. Results demonstrated statistically significant improvements in the GVM plus rehabilitation group versus rehabilitation alone: modified Ashworth scale showed MD -0.65 (95% CI, -0.84 to -0.47, p<0.01) and composite spasticity index showed MD -1.82 (95% CI, -2.25 to -1.39, p<0.01). Subgroup analysis identified treatment duration and frequency as primary sources of heterogeneity. The optimal protocol appeared to be 60-minute sessions conducted weekly for minimum 8 weeks. Adverse events were generally mild. Clinical takeaway: GVM represents an effective adjunctive therapy for PSS management when integrated with conventional rehabilitation, though more rigorous research is needed to establish evidence-based protocols. The identified optimal treatment parameters provide practical guidance for clinical implementation.
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