Acupuncture, a form of alternative medicine that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body, has been widely used to relieve pain in clinical settings. Due to its effectiveness and minimal side effects, it has become a popular treatment option for various pain conditions.
A recent systematic review aimed to investigate the effects of acupuncture on hand and wrist pain intensity, functional status, and quality of life in adults. The study findings indicated that acupuncture may be effective and safe for short-term pain reduction and functional improvement in hand-and-wrist conditions.
The systematic review examined the results of several trials on different conditions. One trial focused on cryotherapy-induced pain and showed significant pain reduction post-treatment. Another trial looked at rheumatoid arthritis and found significant pain reduction and function improvements post-treatment and in the short-term. A third trial focused on carpal tunnel syndrome and demonstrated significant pain reduction and functional improvements in the intermediate-term. A fourth trial looked at tenosynovitis and showed significant pain reduction and function improvements in the short-term. Lastly, one trial examined post-stroke impairments and showed significant function improvements post-treatment and in the short-term.
Based on these findings, the researchers concluded that acupuncture may be an effective and safe treatment option for individuals experiencing hand-and-wrist pain. Acupuncture appears to be particularly effective for short-term pain reduction and functional improvement in various conditions.
These findings are consistent with previous research demonstrating the efficacy of acupuncture in relieving pain. Acupuncture is thought to work by stimulating nerve fibers, which can activate the body's natural painkillers and reduce inflammation. While the exact mechanisms of acupuncture are not yet fully understood, its safety and efficacy have been established in multiple studies.
Overall, the systematic review provides evidence that acupuncture may be a useful treatment option for individuals experiencing hand-and-wrist pain.
References
Kien Trinh et al Med Acupunct. 2022 Feb 1;34(1):34-48.
