RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Effectiveness of strengthened stimulation during acupuncture for the treatment of Bell palsy: a randomized controlled trial
JF Canadian Medical Association Journal
JO CMAJ
FD Canadian Medical Association
SP cmaj.121108
DO 10.1503/cmaj.121108
A1 Xu, Sha-bei
A1 Huang, Bo
A1 Zhang, Chen-yan
A1 Du, Peng
A1 Yuan, Qi
A1 Bi, Gui-juan
A1 Zhang, Gui-bin
A1 Xie, Min-jie
A1 Luo, Xiang
A1 Huang, Guang-ying
A1 Wang, Wei
YR 2013
UL http://www.cmaj.ca/content/early/2013/02/25/cmaj.121108.abstract
AB Background: The traditional Chinese theory of acupuncture emphasizes that the intensity of acupuncture must reach a threshold to generate de qi, which is necessary to acheive the best therapeutic effect. De qi is an internal compound sensation of soreness, tingling, fullness, aching, cool, warmth and heaviness, and a radiating sensation at and around the acupoints. However, the notion that de qi must be acheived for maximum benefit has not been confirmed by modern scientific evidence. Methods: We performed a prospective multicentre randomized controlled trial involving patients with Bell palsy. Patients were randomly assigned to the de qi (n = 167) or control (n = 171) group. Both groups received acupuncture: in the de qi group, the needles were manipulated manually until de qi was reached, whereas in the control group, the needles were inserted without any manipulation. All patients recevied prednisone as a basic treatment. The primary outcome was facial nerve function at month 6. We also assessed disability and quality of life 6 months after randomization. Results: After 6 months, patients in the de qi group had better facial function (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 4.16, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.23–7.78), better disability assessment (differences of least squares means 9.80, 95% CI 6.29–13.30) and better quality of life (differences of least squares means 29.86, 95% CI 22.33–37.38). Logistic regression analysis showed a positive effect of the de qi score on facial-nerve function (adjusted OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.04–1.09). Interpretation: Among patients with Bell palsy, acupuncture with strong stimulation that elicited de qi had a greater therapeutic effect, and stronger intensity of de qi was associated with the better therapeutic effects. Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov no. NCT00685789.