Effect of a single session of ear acupuncture on pain intensity and postural control in individuals with chronic low back pain: a randomized controlled trial.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Ear Acupuncture (EA) is a form of acupuncture in which needles are applied to the external ear and has been used in multiple painful conditions. Low back pain (LBP) is highly prevalent in active individuals and causes high economic burden to health systems worldwide. LBP affects the person's ability to keep balance, especially in challenging conditions.

Objective

The aim of the study was to examine the effects of a single session of EA on pain intensity and body sway during postural tasks.

Method

Eighty adults with LBP and pain intensity equal to or greater than 4 (0-10 scale) were randomly allocated (1:1) to EA group (EAG) or placebo group (PG). Initially, the level of pain intensity was assessed. Next, participants stood still on a force plate either with

SUBMITTER: Ushinohama A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5015670 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Jul-Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature