Single or multiple electroacupuncture sessions in nonspecific low back pain: Are we low-responders to EA?

The objective of this study was compare the effects of one or multiple sessions of electroacupuncture (EA) in patients with chronic low back pain (LBP). The outcome measures were Visual Analogue Score (VAS), pressure pain threshold (PPT), McGill pain questionnaire (MPQ), Roland Morris disability questionnaire (RMDQ), low back skin temperature, surface electromyography (EMG) of longissimus muscle (contraction/rest) and blood cytokines. After examination (AV0), patients were submitted to EA (2Hz, 30 minutes, bilaterally at the SP6, BL23, BL31, BL32, BL33 and BL60) and were revaluated after one week (AV1). Patients with VAS<3 (VAS<3 Group, n=20) were directed to return after three weeks (AV2). Patients with VAS>3 (VAS>3 Group, n=20) were submitted to one weekly EA-treatment and revaluated after three weeks (AV2). The VAS<3 Group showed a significant reduction in VAS and MPQ and increased PPT in AV1, but not in AV2. No significant differences were found in RMDQ. The VAS>3 Group showed reduction in VAS and increased PPT in AV1 and a reduction in MPQ and RMDQ only in AV2. No significant differences were found in EMG, temperature or cytokines. Thus, despite 2Hz-EA is effective reducing LBP, some patients only experienced reduced pain intensity and improved functional capacity after full treatment.
Source: Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies - Category: Complementary Medicine Source Type: research