Therapeutic effect of warm needling plus acupoint sticking therapy on primary dysmenorrhea due to cold-dampness retention

Objective

To observe the clinical efficacy of warm needling plus acupoint sticking therapy for primary dysmenorrhea.

Methods

A total of 60 eligible cases were randomly allocated into a treatment group (n=30) and a control group (n=30) according to their sequence of consultation. Patients in the treatment group were treated with warm needling combined with acupoint sticking therapy, whereas patients in the control group were treated with oral Ibuprofen (Fenbid) capsules. After two menstrual cycles, the visual analogue scale (VAS) score, COX menstrual symptom scale (CMSS) and clinical efficacy were compared between the two groups.

Results

After treatment, the VAS and CMSS scores were significantly reduced in both groups, indicating that both treatment protocols can remarkably alleviate pain. There was a between-group statistical difference in comparing the CMSS score (P<0.05), but no between-group statistical difference in the VAS score (P>0.05). However, the follow-up visit showed between-group statistical differences in comparing VOA and CMSS scores (both P<0.01). The clinical effect, relapse rate and long-term efficacy in the treatment group were better than those in the control group.

Conclusion

Warm needling plus acupoint sticking therapy is a simple but effective therapy for primary dysmenorrhea. In addition, it causes fewer cases with relapse.