Korean researchers studying the use of electro-acupuncture for back pain after surgery, have concluded that its use in addition to usual care, is more effective than usual care alone. A total of 108 participants with non-acute, post-surgical lower back pain, were randomised to receive either usual care alone, or usual care plus electro-acupuncture (EA). The latter was given twice a week for four weeks.
After four weeks, significant differences emerged between the groups, with greater pain reduction and functional improvement in the EA group. The researchers conclude that EA added to usual care, may be considered an effective, conservative treatment for patients with non-acute lower back pain after back surgery.
(Multicentre randomised controlled clinical trial of electroacupuncture with usual care for patients with non-acute pain after back surgery. British Journal of Anaesthesia, March 2021.)