Effects of Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) Along With Conventional Physical Therapy on Upper Limb Function, Strength, Range of Motion, and Spasticity in Patients With Subacute Stroke.

This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effects of IASTM (Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization) along with conventional physical therapy on function, strength, range of motion, and spasticity of the upper limb in patients with subacute stroke.

Inclusion Criteria: * First-ever stroke (ischemic or hemorrhagic) diagnosed via CT/MRI * Subacute stage (2 weeks to 6 months post-stroke) * Age 40-60 years * Upper limb hemiparesis with Modified Ashworth Scale score 2 and 3 * MMSE (Mini-Mental State Examination) score ≥ 24 * Capable of follow simple verbal commands Exclusion Criteria: * Severe cognitive impairment affecting the ability to follow instructions. * Recurrent stroke * Presence of other neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis etc. * Recent upper limb surgery, fractures or musculoskeletal injury affecting the arm or hand. * Fixed contracture of upper limb joints * Severe aphasia or inability to follow commands * Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, hypertension * Serious cardiac problems or unstable cardiovascular disease * Skin conditions, open wounds, or infections affecting upper limb