A New Technique for Acupuncture Therapy and Its Effectiveness in Treating Fibromyalgia Syndrome: A Case Report

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this case report is to demonstrate a new acupuncture technique in treating fibromyalgia syndrome [FMS].

Findings: A patient with FMS had poor responses to previous treatments. She received treatment at our acupuncture clinic. The new acupuncture technique we applied was similar to Hong's technique for myofascial trigger point injection but used simultaneous needle rotation to facilitate the insertion movement of a small acupuncture needle. After five sessions, she assessed her overall pain level to be at less than 20 percent of its original level. A follow-up confirmed that she was no longer suffering any serious discomfort.

Conclusion: A patient with FMS may show remarkable pain relief after this treatment. The mechanism is probably similar to hyperstimulation analgesia, but postneedling discomfort may be reduced due to the small size of acupuncture needle. It is suggested to have a well-controlled, double-blinded study on a large sample to confirm that conclusion.

KEYWORDS:

• Acupuncture
• chronic pain
• fibromyalgia syndrome
• hyperstimulation analgesia