Overview

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

Inclusion Criteria:

• 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

Exclusion Criteria:

• Inability to communicate effectively with study personnel
• Needle phobia
• Severe varicose veins
• Presence of an active implanted device
• Pregnancy
• Any active cancer or history within 1 year
• known or suspected infection at the site of needling or in the surrounding area
• Presence of a fixed plantarflexion contracture at the ankle
• Acute fracture of dislocation in the region (bilateral lower extremity)
• Deep vein thrombosis or peripheral vascular disease
• Thrombophlebitis, or active osteomyelitis in the region (bilateral lower extremity)
• Any medication changes, including antispastic medicines, for the past three months.