Stroke; SequelaeNCT06763796
Postural Decoding for Post-Stroke Shoulder Pain: A RCT.
A study testing Postural Decryption Technique and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Massage Therapy in people with Stroke; Sequelae, run by Shenzhen Baoan District Fuyong People's Hospital at 1 site in China.
Trial summary
Brief Summary Purpose of the Study: This clinical trial aims to determine whether Postural Decryption Technique can effectively treat hemiplegic shoulder pain (HSP) in patients recovering from stroke. It also seeks to assess the safety of this technique. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 18 years and older
- Conditions the study is for
- Stroke; Sequelae
- What is being tested?
- Postural Decryption Technique and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Massage Therapy
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 48 participants
- Where
- 1 siteChina
- Study dates
- 1 Dec 2024to 1 Jun 2027
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- Not yet: the study is under way
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 18 years and older
- All sexes
- No healthy volunteers
- Adult, Older adult
Who may be able to join
- Meets the diagnostic criteria for stroke.
- Presence of stroke-related lesions confirmed by cranial CT or MRI.
- Hemiplegic shoulder pain and motor dysfunction on the affected side.
- Shoulder pain occurring after paralysis, with a VAS score ≥ 5.
- ≥ 18 years.
- First-ever stroke, presenting with unilateral limb paralysis, and classified
- between Stages II-V based on Brunnstrom motor function recovery stages.
- No severe cognitive impairment, with normal cognitive function assessment. Signed informed consent form.
Who cannot join
- Subarachnoid hemorrhage.
- History of two or more strokes.
- Shoulder subluxation in the flaccid stage.
- Disease progression with new infarction or hemorrhagic lesions.
- Severe cardiopulmonary diseases, including acute myocardial infarction, unstable angina, myocardial ischemia detected on resting ECG, severe arrhythmias, aortic stenosis, acute pericarditis, or malignant hypertension.
- Shoulder pain caused by cervical spondylosis, periarthritis, sports injuries, gallbladder disease, thalamic lesions, or myocardial infarction.
- Severe psychological or cognitive impairments that prevent cooperation with treatment.
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
China1 site
Department of Rehabilitation, Fuyong People's Hospital of Bao'an District, Shenzhen
Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518103
About this study
Official title: Postural Decoding Technique for Treating Post-Stroke Shoulder Pain: A Clinical Randomized Controlled Trial.
Brief Summary
Purpose of the Study:
Read more
This clinical trial aims to determine whether Postural Decryption Technique can effectively treat hemiplegic shoulder pain (HSP) in patients recovering from stroke. It also seeks to assess the safety of this technique. The study will compare the effectiveness of the Postural Decryption Technique with traditional massage therapy to find out which method provides better pain relief and improves shoulder function.
Key Research Questions:
- Can the Postural Decryption Technique reduce shoulder pain and improve range of motion in HSP patients?
- Is the Postural Decryption Technique more effective than traditional massage therapy?
- Is the Postural Decryption Technique safe, and are there any side effects or discomfort during treatment? Study Design:
- Researchers will recruit 48 participants with HSP and randomly divide them into two groups:
Treatment Group: Participants will receive therapy using the Postural Decryption Technique.
Control Group: Participants will undergo traditional massage therapy.
What Participants Will Do:
Receive treatment 5 times per week, 40 minutes per session, for 4 weeks. Undergo evaluations before treatment, 2 weeks after treatment begins, and at the end of 4 weeks to measure pain relief and shoulder function improvement.
Undergo musculoskeletal ultrasound to assess changes in soft tissue and joint structure.
Evaluation Methods:
- Pain Assessment: Pain levels will be measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS).
- Range of Motion (ROM): Tools will be used to measure the angles of shoulder movement.
- Postural Assessment: The position of the scapula and spine will be measured to evaluate postural alignment improvements.
- Daily Activity Ability: Progress in daily tasks will be recorded using the Barthel Index questionnaire.
Significance of the Study:
This study aims to validate whether the Postural Decryption Technique is a more effective and safer treatment for HSP compared to traditional massage therapy. If proven effective, it could offer a new rehabilitation approach to reduce pain, restore function, and improve the quality of life for stroke survivors.
Safety Monitoring:
Researchers will closely monitor participants for any signs of discomfort or adverse effects during the treatment process. Participants are free to withdraw from the study at any time if they experience any issues.
Conclusion:
The ultimate goal of this study is to identify a better treatment option for HSP in stroke patients. The results are expected to support the application of the Postural Decryption Technique as a safe and effective rehabilitation method for broader clinical use.
Read the detailed description
Section 1: Introduction to Postural Decryption Technique (PDT)
Background and Development:
The Postural Decryption Technique (PDT) was co-developed by Professor Won Sang-Hee from South Korea and Professor Wang Qiang from the Rehabilitation Medicine Department of the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University. This innovative rehabilitation approach integrates biomechanical assessments with precise interventions to correct joint alignment, restore muscle function, and retrain movement patterns.
Professor Wang Qiang has dedicated years to applying PDT for the treatment of shoulder joint adhesions and gait dysfunctions in patients with hemiplegic shoulder pain (HSP) after stroke. His work has demonstrated remarkable clinical efficacy and laid a solid foundation for the broader application of this technique in rehabilitation medicine.
Core Principles and Technical Framework:
PDT emphasizes the importance of postural alignment and joint stability in rehabilitation. It is based on the 4R Core Technique, which includes:
- Reposition - Correcting abnormal joint alignments to restore normal positioning and stability.
- Restore - Releasing soft tissue adhesions to improve muscle elasticity and flexibility.
- Reinforce - Strengthening key muscle groups and enhancing neuromuscular control.
- Retrain - Re-educating patients in functional movements to maintain proper posture and prevent recurrence.
Features and Advantages:
- Addresses Root Causes: Unlike conventional treatments that focus on symptom relief, PDT targets the biomechanical imbalances that lead to pain and dysfunction.
- Personalized Approach: Treatment plans are customized based on individual postural assessments and functional limitations, ensuring optimal outcomes. Non-Invasive Therapy: PDT is safe, painless, and well-tolerated, making it suitable for long-term application.
- Broad Applicability: Beyond treating HSP, PDT has shown positive results in managing chronic pain, gait impairments, and spinal deformities such as scoliosis.
Section 2: Study Design
Study Framework:
This study adopts a randomized controlled trial (RCT) design to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of PDT in treating HSP. It also compares PDT with traditional massage therapy to determine the superior approach.
Participants:
A total of 48 eligible participants diagnosed with HSP will be randomly assigned into two groups:
PDT Group (Treatment Group): Participants will undergo therapy using the Postural Decryption Technique.
Traditional Massage Group (Control Group): Participants will receive standard massage therapy.
Intervention Methods:
Postural Decryption Technique (PDT Group):
Evaluation: Analyze scapular alignment, thoracic posture, and joint biomechanics to identify dysfunctions.
4R Protocol: Apply repositioning, soft tissue release, muscle reinforcement, and movement retraining.
Focus Areas:
Joint Mobilization: Sliding and stretching of the glenohumeral joint to improve range of motion.
Muscle Relaxation: Release tight muscles (e.g., pectoralis minor, serratus anterior).
Scapular Stabilization: Proprioception exercises to enhance balance and neuromuscular control.
Functional Retraining: Teach proper movement patterns to maintain postural alignment.
Traditional Massage Therapy (Control Group):
Soft tissue relaxation techniques (kneading, pressing). Passive joint mobilization for improved flexibility. Pain relief methods, such as acupressure and trigger point therapy.
Treatment Duration:
5 sessions per week, 40 minutes per session, for 4 weeks. Adjustments to intensity and methods will be made based on participant progress.
Outcome Assessments:
Primary Outcomes:
Pain Relief (VAS): Visual Analog Scale (0-10) to measure pain intensity. Range of Motion (ROM): Goniometer to assess flexion, abduction, and extension angles.
Secondary Outcomes:
Functional Independence (Barthel Index): Measures daily activity performance, scored 0-100.
Postural Symmetry: Vertical distance between scapular angles and the second thoracic vertebra, evaluated for alignment improvement.
Musculoskeletal Ultrasound: Tracks changes in muscle structure, tendon thickness, and joint effusion.
Safety Monitoring:
Record adverse events, such as increased pain, swelling, or loss of function. Allow participants to withdraw at any stage if discomfort occurs.
- Conditions
- Stroke; Sequelae
- Being tested
- Postural Decryption Technique, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Massage Therapy
- Keywords
- Hemiplegic Shoulder Pain；Postural Decryption Technique；Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Assessment；Postural Assessment； Randomized Controlled Trial
- Medical subject headings
- Stroke
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Postural Decryption TechniqueOther
Assessment:
PDT begins with visual inspection and palpation to check postural alignment and identify joint or muscle imbalances. Evaluations proceed distal to proximal, examining the spine and shoulder complex in coronal, sagittal, and transverse planes to assess symmetry and neutral positioning.
Treatment Process:
PDT applies the 4R Technique:
- Reposition - Correct joint alignment.
- Restore - Release muscle tension and adhesions.
- Reinforce - Strengthen stabilizing muscles.
- Retrain - Improve movement patterns and posture.
Key Techniques:
- Spinal and Shoulder Adjustments: Manual traction, mobilizations, and stretches.
- Joint Mobilization: Multi-directional gliding within pain-free ranges.
- Trigger Point Therapy: 5-10 seconds of pressure to relieve localized pain.
- Proprioception Training: Balance challenges to improve stability and control.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Massage TherapyOther
Definition:
A manual therapy based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles, using techniques like kneading, pressing, rolling, and stretching to relieve pain, improve circulation, and enhance mobility.
Key Features:
- Techniques: Soft tissue manipulation, joint mobilization, and acupressure.
- Focus: Pain relief, joint function recovery, and muscle relaxation.
Treatment Plan:
4 weeks, 5 sessions per week, 40 minutes per session.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Intervention Group (Postural Decryption Technique Group) | Active comparator | Assessment:
PDT begins with visual inspection and palpation to assess neutral alignment of the trunk, spine, and shoulder complex. Evaluations proceed distal to proximal through coronal, sagittal, and transverse planes, focusing on joint symmetry.
Treatment:
The 4R Technique includes:
1. Reposition - Correct joint alignment.
2. Restore - Release soft tissue adhesions.
3. Reinforce - Strengthen stabilizing muscles.
4. Retrain - Improve movement patterns.
Key Steps:
1. Lumbar and Thoracic Adjustments: Manual traction, side-bending, and mobilizations.
2. Scapular Realignment: Mobilization and muscle stretching.
3. Joint Mobilization: Multi-directional gliding within pain-free ranges.
4. Trigger Point Release: Pressure therapy for 5-10 seconds to relieve pain.
Treatment Plan:
4 weeks, 5 sessions per week, 40 minutes per session. Targets pain relief, range of motion, and postural correction in hemiplegic shoulder pain (HSP) patients. Receives: Other: Postural Decryption Technique |
| Control Group: Traditional Massage Group | Active comparator | Treatment:
The control group receives traditional massage therapy focused on:
1. Soft Tissue Relaxation - Kneading, pressing, and rolling to reduce muscle tension.
2. Joint Mobilization - Passive movements to improve range of motion (ROM). Pain Relief Techniques - Acupressure and trigger point therapy to ease pain and spasms.
Treatment Plan:
4 weeks, 5 sessions per week, 40 minutes per session. Targets pain relief, ROM improvement, and muscle relaxation in hemiplegic shoulder pain (HSP) patients. Receives: Other: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Massage Therapy |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
VAS（Visual Analog Scale）
In the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scoring system, patients are presented with an unmarked line that is 10 centimeters long. Patients indicate their level of pain by marking a point along the line. The position of the mark is measured using a ruler, yielding a corresponding numerical value. The VAS score ranges from 0 to 10, where 0 represents no pain and 10 represents the most severe pain. Higher scores indicate greater pain intensity.
Measured: The assessment time points are before treatment, 2 weeks after treatment, and 4 weeks after treatment.
Range of motion，ROM
A goniometer is used to measure the flexion, abduction, and extension range of motion (ROM) of the shoulder joint in both groups of patients.
Measured: The assessment time points are before treatment, 2 weeks after treatment, and 4 weeks after treatment.
The absolute value of the vertical distance difference between the medial superior angle of the scapula on the affected side and the spinous process of the second thoracic vertebra (T2).
The patient sits comfortably with arms relaxed at their sides. The medial superior angle of the scapula is marked as Point 1, and the spinous process of the second thoracic vertebra (T2) is marked as Point 2. A ruler or measuring tape is used to measure the vertical distance between these two points. The absolute value of the distance difference before and after treatment is recorded to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention, with a smaller difference indicating improved scapular alignment and postural symmetry.
Measured: The assessment time points are before treatment, 2 weeks after treatment, and 4 weeks after treatment.
Secondary outcomes (2)
Barthel Index
The Barthel Index is an assessment tool used to evaluate a patient's ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs). It includes tasks such as eating, bathing, and dressing, with each activity scored based on the patient's level of independence. Higher scores indicate greater functional independence, while lower scores reflect a greater need for assistance.
Measured: The assessment time points are before treatment, 2 weeks after treatment, and 4 weeks after treatment.
musculoskeletal ultrasound
Musculoskeletal ultrasound is an effective method for evaluating soft tissue abnormalities around the shoulder joint, offering high sensitivity and accuracy. It plays a crucial role in the clinical diagnosis and treatment of shoulder disorders. During the ultrasound examination, two musculoskeletal ultrasound specialists independently scan each patient using a blinded method. If their findings are consistent, the result is confirmed. If there is a discrepancy, they discuss and reach a consensus. If consensus cannot be achieved, the sample is excluded from the study.
Measured: The assessment time points are before treatment, 2 weeks after treatment, and 4 weeks after treatment.
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted8 Jan 2025
- Study start1 Dec 2024
- Primary completion1 Jun 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion1 Jun 2027 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Publications (1)Papers the sponsor has linked to this study.
- Other trials for Stroke; SequelaeStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind
- Who is masked
- Participant
- Enrolment
- 48 participants (estimated)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Shenzhen Baoan District Fuyong People's Hospital
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Sponsor
- Investigators
- Bo Lei, Study chair, Fuyong People's Hospital of Bao'an District, Shenzhen
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT06763796
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- KY-2024-90
- Other IDs
- 2024JD056
- Status last verified
- Sep 2025
- First submitted
- 1 Jan 2025
- Last updated
- 3 Oct 2025
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- Yes
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No: The Individual Participant Data (IPD) will not be shared due to patient privacy concerns and confidentiality regulations. Protecting sensitive personal and medical information is a priority, and the data contains details that cannot be fully anonymized. Additionally, the data is intended solely for this specific study and is not designed for external distribution or secondary analysis.
Publications
Song C, Lei B, Li Z, Li H, Tian S, Feng N. Discovery of Posture Secret manual therapy for post-stroke shoulder pain: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Front Neurol. 2025 Sep 12;16:1594560. doi: 10.3389/fneur.2025.1594560. eCollection 2025.
PubMed 41018195
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 3 Oct 2025. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Postural Decoding Technique for Treating Post-Stroke Shoulder Pain: A Clinical Randomized Controlled Trial.
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT06763796
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- KY-2024-90
- Conditions
- Stroke; Sequelae
- Keywords
- Hemiplegic Shoulder Pain；Postural Decryption Technique；Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Assessment；Postural Assessment； Randomized Controlled Trial
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Active, not recruiting
- Enrolment
- 48 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- Shenzhen Baoan District Fuyong People's HospitalUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 1 Dec 2024 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 1 Jun 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion
- 1 Jun 2027 (estimated)
- First posted
- 8 Jan 2025 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
Brief Summary
Purpose of the Study:
This clinical trial aims to determine whether Postural Decryption Technique can effectively treat hemiplegic shoulder pain (HSP) in patients recovering from stroke. It also seeks to assess the safety of this technique. The study will compare the effectiveness of the Postural Decryption Technique with traditional massage therapy to find out which method provides better pain relief and improves shoulder function.
Key Research Questions:
- Can the Postural Decryption Technique reduce shoulder pain and improve range of motion in HSP patients?
- Is the Postural Decryption Technique more effective than traditional massage therapy?
- Is the Postural Decryption Technique safe, and are there any side effects or discomfort during treatment? Study Design:
- Researchers will recruit 48 participants with HSP and randomly divide them into two groups:
Treatment Group: Participants will receive therapy using the Postural Decryption Technique.
Control Group: Participants will undergo traditional massage therapy.
What Participants Will Do:
Receive treatment 5 times per week, 40 minutes per session, for 4 weeks. Undergo evaluations before treatment, 2 weeks after treatment begins, and at the end of 4 weeks to measure pain relief and shoulder function improvement.
Undergo musculoskeletal ultrasound to assess changes in soft tissue and joint structure.
Evaluation Methods:
- Pain Assessment: Pain levels will be measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS).
- Range of Motion (ROM): Tools will be used to measure the angles of shoulder movement.
- Postural Assessment: The position of the scapula and spine will be measured to evaluate postural alignment improvements.
- Daily Activity Ability: Progress in daily tasks will be recorded using the Barthel Index questionnaire.
Significance of the Study:
This study aims to validate whether the Postural Decryption Technique is a more effective and safer treatment for HSP compared to traditional massage therapy. If proven effective, it could offer a new rehabilitation approach to reduce pain, restore function, and improve the quality of life for stroke survivors.
Safety Monitoring:
Researchers will closely monitor participants for any signs of discomfort or adverse effects during the treatment process. Participants are free to withdraw from the study at any time if they experience any issues.
Conclusion:
The ultimate goal of this study is to identify a better treatment option for HSP in stroke patients. The results are expected to support the application of the Postural Decryption Technique as a safe and effective rehabilitation method for broader clinical use.
Detailed description
Section 1: Introduction to Postural Decryption Technique (PDT)
Background and Development:
The Postural Decryption Technique (PDT) was co-developed by Professor Won Sang-Hee from South Korea and Professor Wang Qiang from the Rehabilitation Medicine Department of the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University. This innovative rehabilitation approach integrates biomechanical assessments with precise interventions to correct joint alignment, restore muscle function, and retrain movement patterns.
Professor Wang Qiang has dedicated years to applying PDT for the treatment of shoulder joint adhesions and gait dysfunctions in patients with hemiplegic shoulder pain (HSP) after stroke. His work has demonstrated remarkable clinical efficacy and laid a solid foundation for the broader application of this technique in rehabilitation medicine.
Core Principles and Technical Framework:
PDT emphasizes the importance of postural alignment and joint stability in rehabilitation. It is based on the 4R Core Technique, which includes:
- Reposition - Correcting abnormal joint alignments to restore normal positioning and stability.
- Restore - Releasing soft tissue adhesions to improve muscle elasticity and flexibility.
- Reinforce - Strengthening key muscle groups and enhancing neuromuscular control.
- Retrain - Re-educating patients in functional movements to maintain proper posture and prevent recurrence.
Features and Advantages:
- Addresses Root Causes: Unlike conventional treatments that focus on symptom relief, PDT targets the biomechanical imbalances that lead to pain and dysfunction.
- Personalized Approach: Treatment plans are customized based on individual postural assessments and functional limitations, ensuring optimal outcomes. Non-Invasive Therapy: PDT is safe, painless, and well-tolerated, making it suitable for long-term application.
- Broad Applicability: Beyond treating HSP, PDT has shown positive results in managing chronic pain, gait impairments, and spinal deformities such as scoliosis.
Section 2: Study Design
Study Framework:
This study adopts a randomized controlled trial (RCT) design to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of PDT in treating HSP. It also compares PDT with traditional massage therapy to determine the superior approach.
Participants:
A total of 48 eligible participants diagnosed with HSP will be randomly assigned into two groups:
PDT Group (Treatment Group): Participants will undergo therapy using the Postural Decryption Technique.
Traditional Massage Group (Control Group): Participants will receive standard massage therapy.
Intervention Methods:
Postural Decryption Technique (PDT Group):
Evaluation: Analyze scapular alignment, thoracic posture, and joint biomechanics to identify dysfunctions.
4R Protocol: Apply repositioning, soft tissue release, muscle reinforcement, and movement retraining.
Focus Areas:
Joint Mobilization: Sliding and stretching of the glenohumeral joint to improve range of motion.
Muscle Relaxation: Release tight muscles (e.g., pectoralis minor, serratus anterior).
Scapular Stabilization: Proprioception exercises to enhance balance and neuromuscular control.
Functional Retraining: Teach proper movement patterns to maintain postural alignment.
Traditional Massage Therapy (Control Group):
Soft tissue relaxation techniques (kneading, pressing). Passive joint mobilization for improved flexibility. Pain relief methods, such as acupressure and trigger point therapy.
Treatment Duration:
5 sessions per week, 40 minutes per session, for 4 weeks. Adjustments to intensity and methods will be made based on participant progress.
Outcome Assessments:
Primary Outcomes:
Pain Relief (VAS): Visual Analog Scale (0-10) to measure pain intensity. Range of Motion (ROM): Goniometer to assess flexion, abduction, and extension angles.
Secondary Outcomes:
Functional Independence (Barthel Index): Measures daily activity performance, scored 0-100.
Postural Symmetry: Vertical distance between scapular angles and the second thoracic vertebra, evaluated for alignment improvement.
Musculoskeletal Ultrasound: Tracks changes in muscle structure, tendon thickness, and joint effusion.
Safety Monitoring:
Record adverse events, such as increased pain, swelling, or loss of function. Allow participants to withdraw at any stage if discomfort occurs.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind (participant)
- Number of arms
- 2
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Intervention Group (Postural Decryption Technique Group) | Active comparator | Other: Postural Decryption TechniqueAssessment: PDT begins with visual inspection and palpation to assess neutral alignment of the trunk, spine, and shoulder complex. Evaluations proceed distal to proximal through coronal, sagittal, and transverse planes, focusing on joint symmetry. Treatment: The 4R Technique includes: 1. Reposition - Correct joint alignment. 2. Restore - Release soft tissue adhesions. 3. Reinforce - Strengthen stabilizing muscles. 4. Retrain - Improve movement patterns. Key Steps: 1. Lumbar and Thoracic Adjustments: Manual traction, side-bending, and mobilizations. 2. Scapular Realignment: Mobilization and muscle stretching. 3. Joint Mobilization: Multi-directional gliding within pain-free ranges. 4. Trigger Point Release: Pressure therapy for 5-10 seconds to relieve pain. Treatment Plan: 4 weeks, 5 sessions per week, 40 minutes per session. Targets pain relief, range of motion, and postural correction in hemiplegic shoulder pain (HSP) patients. |
| Control Group: Traditional Massage Group | Active comparator | Other: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Massage TherapyTreatment: The control group receives traditional massage therapy focused on: 1. Soft Tissue Relaxation - Kneading, pressing, and rolling to reduce muscle tension. 2. Joint Mobilization - Passive movements to improve range of motion (ROM). Pain Relief Techniques - Acupressure and trigger point therapy to ease pain and spasms. Treatment Plan: 4 weeks, 5 sessions per week, 40 minutes per session. Targets pain relief, ROM improvement, and muscle relaxation in hemiplegic shoulder pain (HSP) patients. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 18 years and older
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Adult, Older adult
Key inclusion criteria (8 listed)
- Meets the diagnostic criteria for stroke.
- Presence of stroke-related lesions confirmed by cranial CT or MRI.
- Hemiplegic shoulder pain and motor dysfunction on the affected side.
- Shoulder pain occurring after paralysis, with a VAS score ≥ 5.
- ≥ 18 years.
Key exclusion criteria (7 listed)
- Subarachnoid hemorrhage.
- History of two or more strokes.
- Shoulder subluxation in the flaccid stage.
- Disease progression with new infarction or hemorrhagic lesions.
- Severe cardiopulmonary diseases, including acute myocardial infarction, unstable angina, myocardial ischemia detected on resting ECG, severe arrhythmias, aortic stenosis, acute pericarditis, or malignant hypertension.
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Postural Decryption TechniqueAssessment: PDT begins with visual inspection and palpation to check postural alignment and identify joint or muscle imbalances. Evaluations proceed distal to proximal, examining the spine and shoulder complex in coronal, sagittal, and transverse planes to assess symmetry and neutral positioning. Treatment Process: PDT applies the 4R Technique: 1. Reposition - Correct joint alignment. 2. Restore - Release muscle tension and adhesions. 3. Reinforce - Strengthen stabilizing muscles. 4. Retrain - Improve movement patterns and posture. Key Techniques: 1. Spinal and Shoulder Adjustments: Manual traction, mobilizations, and stretches. 2. Joint Mobilization: Multi-directional gliding within pain-free ranges. 3. Trigger Point Therapy: 5-10 seconds of pressure to relieve localized pain. 4. Proprioception Training: Balance challenges to improve stability and control. | Other | Intervention Group (Postural Decryption Technique Group) |
| Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Massage TherapyDefinition: A manual therapy based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles, using techniques like kneading, pressing, rolling, and stretching to relieve pain, improve circulation, and enhance mobility. Key Features: 1. Techniques: Soft tissue manipulation, joint mobilization, and acupressure. 2. Focus: Pain relief, joint function recovery, and muscle relaxation. Treatment Plan: 4 weeks, 5 sessions per week, 40 minutes per session. | Other | Control Group: Traditional Massage Group |
Primary outcome
VAS（Visual Analog Scale）
Time frame: The assessment time points are before treatment, 2 weeks after treatment, and 4 weeks after treatment.
In the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scoring system, patients are presented with an unmarked line that is 10 centimeters long. Patients indicate their level of pain by marking a point along the line. The position of the mark is measured using a ruler, yielding a corresponding numerical value. The VAS score ranges from 0 to 10, where 0 represents no pain and 10 represents the most severe pain. Higher scores indicate greater pain intensity.
Range of motion，ROM
Time frame: The assessment time points are before treatment, 2 weeks after treatment, and 4 weeks after treatment.
A goniometer is used to measure the flexion, abduction, and extension range of motion (ROM) of the shoulder joint in both groups of patients.
The absolute value of the vertical distance difference between the medial superior angle of the scapula on the affected side and the spinous process of the second thoracic vertebra (T2).
Time frame: The assessment time points are before treatment, 2 weeks after treatment, and 4 weeks after treatment.
The patient sits comfortably with arms relaxed at their sides. The medial superior angle of the scapula is marked as Point 1, and the spinous process of the second thoracic vertebra (T2) is marked as Point 2. A ruler or measuring tape is used to measure the vertical distance between these two points. The absolute value of the distance difference before and after treatment is recorded to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention, with a smaller difference indicating improved scapular alignment and postural symmetry.
2 secondary outcomes
Barthel Index
Time frame: The assessment time points are before treatment, 2 weeks after treatment, and 4 weeks after treatment.
musculoskeletal ultrasound
Time frame: The assessment time points are before treatment, 2 weeks after treatment, and 4 weeks after treatment.
Results and safety
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 3 Oct 2025.
- Derived from this study: PubMed 41018195Song C, Lei B, Li Z, Li H, Tian S, Feng N. Discovery of Posture Secret manual therapy for post-stroke shoulder pain: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Front Neurol. 2025 Sep 12;16:1594560. doi: 10.3389/fneur.2025.1594560. eCollection 2025.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No. The Individual Participant Data (IPD) will not be shared due to patient privacy concerns and confidentiality regulations. Protecting sensitive personal and medical information is a priority, and the data contains details that cannot be fully anonymized. Additionally, the data is intended solely for this specific study and is not designed for external distribution or secondary analysis.
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
Bo Lei study chair
Fuyong People's Hospital of Bao'an District, Shenzhen
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Postural Decryption Technique and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Massage Therapy in people with Stroke; Sequelae, run by Shenzhen Baoan District Fuyong People's Hospital at 1 site in China.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 8 inclusion and 7 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: under way, not looking for participants, as of the sponsor's last update on 3 Oct 2025. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in China. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
VAS（Visual Analog Scale） (time frame: The assessment time points are before treatment, 2 weeks after treatment, and 4 weeks after treatment.). The study lists 3 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
On the ClinicalTrials.gov record for NCT06763796, which also lists 1 linked publication.
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 3 Oct 2025.