Management of Chronic Pain Using Acupuncture as a Standalone Treatment – A Case Study

Abstract

Background: Chronic pain is a suffering which patients endure due to various injuries or condition and has a significant impact on the overall quality of life. Where traditional medicine fails to bring the desired results for the patient, use of acupuncture to manage chronic pain has been reported to have beneficial results. The current case report aims to report the positive effects of acupuncture in managing chronic pain through presentation of a single case. The patient had a four-week PT Program, seen twice a week for acupuncture (Bilateral BL 23BL25, GV4, GV 3, and bilateral LI4). The main outcome measures used were visual analogue scale, Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36) and Oswesrty Low Back Disability Questionnaire. At the end of treatment, the patient had significant reduction in pain and improved outcomes thus supporting the use of acupuncture for pain management in chronic pain patients. The current case report affirms that acupuncture is both safe and effective in managing chronic pain and quality of life. Bilateral BL23, BL25, GV4, GV 3, and LI4 points used in the current case study has proven to be helpful in helping patient come off long-term pain medications.