Comparing the efficacy of two different temperature stimulation in warm acupuncture on acute low back pain: A randomized controlled trial

研究概要

159 patients with acute low back pain were randomized to receive 3 weeks of warm acupuncture therapy using silver needle at a stronger heat stimulation level (above 43°C) or stainless steel needle at a weaker heat stimulation level (above 40°C). The primary outcome of interest was the modified Oswestry Disability Index (mODI). Secondary outcomes of interest included average pain, three physical sign tests, and adverse events. Results revealed significantly favourable mODI scores at 4, 16 and 28 weeks in the silver needle group vs. the stainless steel needle group. Moreover, average pain scores at 4, 16 and 28 weeks, as well as physical sign tests at 4 weeks, were in favour of the silver needle group. No serious adverse events were reported in either group.