• Journal of Acupuncture Research
• /
• v.40 no.2
• /
• pp.111-128
• /
• 2023

Trigger finger is a common cause of hand disability that results in finger catching, clicking, or locking. Conventional treatment options such as medication, injection, and surgery have limitations. Studies have indicated that acupuncture and acupotomy can be effective in treating trigger finger. However, no review regarding these treatment modalities has been published yet. This review included randomized controlled trials published until January 2023, investigating acupuncture-related interventions. The primary outcomes of interest included the effectiveness rate (ER) and pain intensity, measured using a visual analog scale (VAS) and Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), and secondary outcomes were the Quinnell grade (QG) and recurrence rate (RR). Adverse events (AEs) have also been reported wherever available. Overall, 19 studies were included, and results demonstrated that arcedge acupuncture improved the ER and QG and reduced NRS, and acupuncture was effective in reducing VAS. Compared with conventional surgery, acupotomy alone improved the ER and QG and lowered VAS and RR, with relatively fewer AEs. Acupotomy add-on treatment was more effective than conventional treatment; however, careful interpretation is needed for VAS. Acupotomy add-on treatment was more effective than acupotomy alone. However, the overall results must be interpreted with caution because of study quality, small sample size, and heterogeneity of the results.

• Journal of Acupuncture Research
• /
• v.40 no.3
• /
• pp.252-264
• /
• 2023

Background: The primary aim of this study is to statistically analyze and compare the difference in treatment outcomes based on the frequency and duration of acupotomy treatment for lumbar disk herniation. Methods: The evaluation of efficacy and safety involved using visual analog scale (VAS), numeric rating scale (NRS), Roland Morris disability questionnaire (RMDQ), EuroQol 5-dimention (EQ-5D), and similar parameters. This was achieved through the establishment of a comparable cohort using propensity score matching. Group A comprised 46 patients who underwent 4 sessions of acupotomy treatment for 2 weeks, while Group B consisted of 15 patients who received 6 acupotomy sessions for 3 weeks. Results: For Group A, the average amount of change in VAS values at weeks 4 and 6 was significantly decreased. However, the average amount of change in RMDQ values was not significant. Notably, the average amount of change of EQ-5D values at week 6 increased significantly. As for Group B, the average amount of change of NRS values in weeks 2 and 3 was significantly decreased. Conversely, the average amount of change in RMDQ and EQ-5D values was not significant. In comparing the 2 groups at the final follow-up, the average amount of change in all evaluation values was not significant. Further, no significant interaction effect was observed in the changes over time in all evaluation values between the 2 groups. Conclusion: This study establishes that there was no statistically significant difference in pain reduction, functional impairment, and quality of life improvement between 2 group.

• Clinics in Shoulder and Elbow
• /
• v.26 no.1
• /
• pp.10-19
• /
• 2023

Background: Tendon degeneration contributes to rotator cuff tears; however, its role in postoperative structural integrity is poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors associated with postoperative structural integrity after rotator cuff repair, particularly focusing on the histology of tendons harvested intraoperatively. Methods: A total of 56 patients who underwent primary arthroscopic rotator cuff repair between 2009 and 2011 were analyzed. A 3-mm-diameter sample of supraspinatus tendons was harvested en bloc from each patient after minimal debridement of the torn ends. Tendon degeneration was assessed using seven histological parameters on a semi-quantitative grading scale, and the total degeneration score was calculated. One-year postoperative magnetic resonance imaging was used to classify the patients based on retear. Results: The total degeneration scores in the healed and retear groups were 13.93±2.03 and 14.08±2.23 (P=0.960), respectively. Arthroscopically measured anteroposterior (AP) tear sizes in the healed and retear groups were 24.30±12.35 mm and 36.42±25.23 mm (P=0.026), respectively. Preoperative visual analog scale pain scores at rest in the healed and retear groups were 3.54±2.37 and 5.16±2.16 (P=0.046), respectively. Retraction sizes in the healed and retear groups were 16.02±7.587 mm and 22.33±13.364 mm (P=0.037), respectively. The odds of retear rose by 4.2% for every 1-mm increase in AP tear size (P=0.032). Conclusions: The postoperative structural integrity of the rotator cuff tendon was not affected by tendon degeneration, whereas the arthroscopically measured AP tear size of the rotator cuff tendon was an independent predictor of retear. Level of evidence: III.

• Clinics in Shoulder and Elbow
• /
• v.25 no.4
• /
• pp.288-295
• /
• 2022

Background: There is no standardized therapeutic strategy for locked posterior shoulder fracture-dislocation (PSFD), and no consensus exists on the analysis of preoperative factors. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate functional results and complications in a series of PSFD cases managed with open surgical treatment. Methods: Patients diagnosed with locked PSFD who underwent open surgical treatment with reduction and osteosynthesis between April 2016 and March 2020 were included. All participants were treated with open reduction and internal fixation. Functional assessment used the modified University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) mod scale, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) questionnaire, subjective shoulder value (SSV), and visual analog scale (VAS). Complications were evaluated clinically and radiologically by X-ray and computed tomography. Results: Twelve shoulders were included (11 patients; mean age, 40.6 years; range, 19- 62 years). The mean follow-up duration was 23.3 months (range, 12-63 months). The UCLA mod, ASES, SSV, and VAS scores were 29.1±3.7, 81.6±13.5, 78±14.8, and 1.2±1.4 points, respectively. The overall complication rate was 16.6%, with one case of post-traumatic stiffness, 1 case of chronic pain, and no cases of avascular necrosis. Conclusions: Open surgical treatment of locked PSFD can achieve good functional results. A correct understanding of these injuries and good preoperative planning helped us to achieve a low rate of complications.

• Journal of Acupuncture Research
• /
• v.28 no.6
• /
• pp.149-157
• /
• 2011

Objectives : The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of mixed pharmacopuncture of $Jungsongouhyul$ and $Cervi$ $Pantotrichum$ $Cornu$ on low back pain patients. Methods : 83 patients with Low back pain who were treated in Dept. of Acupuncture and Moxibusion, Dongshin University Hospital in Suncheon from Sep. 1st, 2010 to August 31th, 2011, were divided into two groups. One group (52 patients) was treated with conservative treatments (acupuncture, herb med, cupping therapy and physical therapy) and mixed pharmacopuncture of $Jungsongouhyul$ and $Cervi$ $Pantotrichum$ $Cornu$ theraphy (PG) and the other group (31 patients) was treated with conservative treatments alone(NPG). To estimate the effects of treatments, visual analog scale(VAS) and Oswestry disability index(ODI) were checked. Results : 1. In VAS, both of PG and NPG shows statistically significant improvement rate after 3rd treatment and 5th treatment. 2. In ODI, both of PG and NPG shows statistically significant improvement rate after 3rd treatment and 5th treatment. 3. In comparing VAS of PG and NPG, there was more significant improvement in PG than NPG after 3rd treatment and 5th treatment. 4. In comparing ODI of PG and NPG, there was more significant improvement in PG than NPG after 3rd treatment but no significant improvement between PG and NPG after 5th treatment. Conclusions : According to the study, it is thought that mixed pharmacopuncture of $Jungsongouhyul$ and $Cervi$ $Pantotrichum$ $Cornu$ theraphy is effective to low back pain patients, and further study is needed for the confirmation of the effect of mixed pharmacopuncture of $Jungsongouhyul$ and $Cervi$ $Pantotrichum$ $Cornu$.

• Journal of Acupuncture Research
• /
• v.27 no.4
• /
• pp.239-245
• /
• 2010

Objectives : The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of cervical Hyeopcheok(Jiaji) point for neck pain. Methods : The twenty-nine patients who feel neck pain, are chosen from chart review, received acupuncture treatment on cervical Hyeopcheok(Jiaji) point. The evaulation of progress was checked by NDI(neck disability index), and VAS(visual analog scale). Data were analyzed by Friedman two way analysis of variance and Wilcoxon matched pairs signed rank test. Results : NDI value(mean${\pm}$SD) was $17.76{\pm}8.26$(n=29) at the first visit, $13.41{\pm}8.04$(n=29) at 3days after treatment, $10.85{\pm}8.46$(n=26) at 5days, $11.00{\pm}7.80$(n=13) at 9days, $7.22{\pm}4.76$(n=9) at 15days, $3.86{\pm}4.06$(n=7) at 20days, and $3.33{\pm}3.78$(n=6) at 30days. VAS value(mean${\pm}$SD) was $4.07{\pm}1.33$(n=29) at the first visit, $12.97{\pm}1.05$(n=29) at 3days after treatment, $2.15{\pm}1.12$(n=26) at 5days, $2.15{\pm}0.99$(n=13) at 9days, $1.56{\pm}0.73$(n=9) at 15days, $1.29{\pm}0.49$(n=7) at 20days, and $0.83{\pm}0.41$(n=6) at 30days. The value of NDI and VAS gradually decreased. Repeated measurement results(the difference between the first visit and each measurement day) and the difference between before and after the interval(except between 5 and 9days, between 20 and 25days) were statistically significant. Conclusions : This result was shown that treatment of cervical Hyeopcheok(Jiaji) acupuncture point for neck pain can be effective. Further systematic research will be needed.

• The Journal of the Korea Contents Association
• /
• v.12 no.3
• /
• pp.233-243
• /
• 2012

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of lumbar stabilization exercise using the PNF techniques on the lumbar deep muscles thickness and functional activity in chronic low back pain patient. Group I(n=10): general physical therapy group; Group II(n=10): general lumbar stabilization exercise group; Group III(n=10): lumbar stabilization exercise using PNF techniques(stabilizing reversal, rhythmic stabilization, combination of isotonic) group. Change of pain was measured with visual analog scale(VAS). To observe muscle thickness changes, we measured transverse abdominis(TrA), external oblique(EO), multifidus with real time ultrasound scanning. The functional activity were measured with Oswestry Disability Questionnaire(ODQ) and Roland & Morris Disability Questionnaire(RMDQ). In VAS test, group III had more significantly decreased than before exercise. In muscle thickness test, group III had more significantly increased than before exercise in right/left TrA, EO, multifidus. In ODQ & RMDQ test, group III had more significantly decreased than before exercise. This study show that the PNF techniques is effective in improving the lumbar stability and functional activity in chronic low back pain patients.

• The Journal of Internal Korean Medicine
• /
• v.44 no.2
• /
• pp.231-243
• /
• 2023

Background: Diabetic polyneuropathy is the most common complication in diabetics, occurring in 50% of all cases. About 10-20% of all diabetics are accompanied by neurological pain, showing a tendency to increase with age. Clinical aspects are very diverse, from mild abnormalities on nerve conduction tests to severe abnormalities in all sensory, motor, and autonomic nerves; however, sensory symptoms usually precede motor symptoms. Patients typically express sensory symptoms, such as positive and negative symptoms, which decrease the quality of life and have marked clinical implications, such as increased morbidity and mortality. Although Western medical drugs, such as tricyclic antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and narcotic analgesics, are used for diabetic polyneuropathy, a standard treatment has not been established. Case report: A 65-year-old male with paresthesia and pain due to diabetic polyneuropathy was treated with Uchashinki-hwan, acupuncture, electroacupuncture, moxibustion, and Jungsongouhyul pharmacopuncture for 10 days. We used the Toronto Clinical Neuropathy Scoring System, EuroQol-5 Dimension, and Visual Analog Scale to evaluate symptoms. Subsequently, the Neuropathy Scoring System, EuroQol-5 Dimension, and subjective discomfort improved. Conclusion: The present case report suggests that combined Korean medicine treatment might be an effective treatment for paresthesia and pain with diabetic polyneuropathy. Several follow-up studies should be conducted to clarify the effectiveness of the treatment.

• Journal of Korean Medicine Rehabilitation
• /
• v.26 no.4
• /
• pp.45-55
• /
• 2016

Objectives The aim of this review is to provide fundamental data for temporomandibular disorders diagnosis and evaluation criteria which can be used in clinical trial. Methods We investigated the clinical studies on temporomandibular disorders via PubMed. Also, we searched domestic articles through "OASIS", "NDSL", "KISS", "Korean Traditional Knowledge Portal (KTKP)". The articles we focused on were the recent decade from 2007 to 2016. A total of 139 studies were analyzed: 42 domestic articles and 97 overseas articles. This study focuses on the diagnosis and evaluation criteria on temporomandibular disorders. Results 1) In diagnosis criteria, Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD) was used 14 times in domestic articles and 63 times in overseas articles. Clinical symptoms were used 13 times in domestic articles, 17 times in overseas articles. 2) In evaluation criteria, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) was used as a pain scale 12 times in domestic articles, 63 times in overseas articles. Pressure Pain Threshold (PPT) was used 16 times in overseas articles. Whereas, no clinical trials used PPT in domestic articles. In psychological scale, Symptom Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90-R) was used 6 times. However, SCL-90-R was used 2 times in domestic articles. ROM(Maximum Mouth Opening (MMO), Maximum Comfortable Opening (MCO) were used 24 times in overseas. In domestic articles, MMO was counted 12 times, while MCO was counted 5 times. Conclusions This research reviewed the tendency of using diagnosis methods and evaluating outcomes of the clinical on TMD. It is expected that this investigation would develop further treatment for TMD in the Korean Medicine.

• Journal of Acupuncture Research
• /
• v.25 no.2
• /
• pp.151-164
• /
• 2008

Objectives : This study was designed to compare the effects on Korean Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index(KWOMAC), 36-ltems Short-Form Health Survey(SF-36), Visual Analog Scale(VAS) and Nine Point Scale between 'Intramuscular Bee Venom Herbal Acupuncture' and 'Intracutaneous Bee Venom Herbal Acupuncture' in knee osteoarthritis patients for 4weeks. Methods : All the voluntary subject were diagnosed as knee osteoarthritis. Patients were randomly assigned either to two groups : Intramuscular bee venom herbal acupuncture treatment group(IM-BV group) or Intracutaneous bee venom herbal acupuncture treatment group(IC-BV group). The IM-BV group received bee venom herbal acupuncture intramuscularly on muscles closest to the pathologic site on ultrasonography. The IC-BV group received bee venom herbal acupuncture intracutaneously on $LE_{110}$, $LE_{201}$, $ST_{35}$, $ST_{36}$ and $LR_8$. Bee venom herbal acupuncture was applied twice a week for 4 weeks by an oriental medical doctor at Kyung-hee Oriental Medical Hospital. Both groups were checked of pathologic site by ultrasonography before treatment and follow up after four-week treatment. The patients were assessed by KWOMAC and SF-36 before and after four-week treatment. The changes in patients' pain was measured by VAS before treatment and after one-, two-, three- and four-week treatment. The patients' overall treatment outcome assesment was measured by Nine Point Scale after four-week treatment. Results : The results were as follows ; 1. The IM-BV group showed significant improvement on total, pain, stiffness and physical function in KWOMAC, and the IC-BV group showed significant improvement on total and physical function in KWOMAC after 4weeks compared to the pre-treatment. In KWOMAC, the IM-BV group showed more improvement on average compared to the IC-BV group, but there were no significant difference between two groups. 2. The IM-BV group showed significant improvement on VAS after one-week treatment. The IC-BV group showed significant improvement on VAS after two-week treatment. But there were no significant difference between two groups. 3. The IM-BV group showed significant improvement on physical functioning(PF) and bodily pain(BP) in SF-36, and the IC-BV group showed significant improvement on vitality(VT) and bodily pain(BP) in SF-36 after 4weeks compared to the pre-treatment. But there were no significant difference between two groups. 4. 88.2% of IM-BV group and 93.3% of IC-BV group graded their improvement as 'Fair' or better on Nine Point Scale. But there were no significant difference between two groups. Conclusions : This study suggests that in the treatment of knee osteoarthtitis patients, effects of 'Intramuscular Bee Venom Herbal Acupuncture' were not different from 'Intracutaneous Bee Venom Herbal Acupuncture' statistically. But both treatment showed effects on pain and physical function in knee osteoarthtitis patients.