Abstract
This qualitative, retrospective instrumental case study explored the effects of auricular transcutaneous electrical neuro-stimulation (ATENS) [auriculotherapy] in combination with addiction education, behavioral training and coaching support to gain greater understanding of this intervention with six motivated smokers in the addiction treatment process. Purposeful sampling was used in case selection. In-depth interviews were conducted to collect the data. Each of the participants had used auriculotherapy to become smoke free and had remained smoke free for at least a year at the time of the interviews. Two theoretical models of addiction are discussed to explain addiction etiology and susceptibility. Although the study was conducted with a small group and the findings are limited to this sample, they are consistent with other studies found in the literature.
The findings suggest that current interventions advocated for nicotine addicted smokers may not be sufficient to support smoker's long term efforts. Auriculotherapy combined with addiction education, behavioral training and coaching support was viewed by the participants as a viable option to assist them in becoming smoke free as evidenced by their pursuit of this treatment. Addiction is a highly variable and complex disorder. The findings indicate that auriculotherapy applied during the detoxification stage of treatment relieved withdrawal symptoms and reduced anxiety and stress levels during all stages of the treatment process. Auriculotherapy promoted a physical and emotional stabilizing effect in all stages of the addiction treatment process. This study reinforces the need for multidimensional treatment approaches that not only address the acute detoxification stage of treatment but also recovery and relapse prevention. Smokers appreciated the individualized approach. Their ability to resist the urge to smoke was reinforced with the use of auriculotherapy.
Longitudinal follow up studies that include biochemical validation using a larger sample are warranted to compare the effects of high and low intensity auriculotherapy treatment to assess the therapeutic benefits combined with addiction education, behavioral training and coaching support to become and remain smoke free. Knowledge about auriculotherapy as a treatment intervention during all stages of the addiction treatment process is needed to assist health care providers to incorporate this modality into their practices.