Effects of Transcutaneous Auricular Nerve Stimulation versus Body Rocking Exercises on Upper Limb Spasticity in Young Stroke Patients: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Background: Upper limb spasticity is one of the most crippling effects of stroke, which continues to be a major source of long-term impairment globally. It has a major effect on quality of life, everyday functioning, and motor control, especially in young stroke survivors. Objective: To compare the effects of transcutaneous auricular nerve stimulation versus body rocking exercises on upper limb spasticity in young stroke patients. Methodology: A randomized clinical study with blinded outcome evaluation was conducted at the Superior University and City Clinic Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Center in Lahore. Participants were randomly assigned to either Group A, treated with transcutaneous auricular nerve stimulation, or Group B was given body rocking exercises. If they had upper limb spasticity following a stroke and were between the ages of 35 and 45. The interventions lasted for eight weeks. The results were measured using the Modified Ashworth Scale, Numeric Pain Rating Scale, Stroke Impact Scale, and Fugl-Meyer Assessment for Upper Extremity. The statistical analysis was conducted using non-parametric tests. Results: Both groups showed statistically significant improvement from baseline in all outcome measures (p<0.05). However, Group B exhibited significantly greater post-treatment improvements in spasticity (p=0.00), pain (p=0.00), motor function (p=0.02), and quality of life (SIS, p = 0.00). Within-group analysis confirmed consistent improvement in both groups, but the magnitude was higher in the body rocking group. Conclusion: Young stroke patients’ upper limb stiffness can be effectively managed with Transcutaneous auricular nerve stimulation and body rocking exercises. Nonetheless, body rocking exercises showed better results in every category, indicating that they have a higher potential to support neuroplasticity recovery and functional independence. These results provide credence to the use of rhythmic, body-based therapies in post-stroke rehabilitation programs, particularly in environments with limited resources.