Recent clinical evidence underscores acupuncture’s effectiveness in managing acute ankle sprains (AAS). A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated 17 randomized controlled trials involving 1,528 patients with AAS. The findings revealed that acupuncture, whether administered alone or in conjunction with traditional therapies, significantly alleviated pain and increased cure rates compared to standard treatments such as Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE) [1].
Specifically
- Pain Reduction: Acupuncture alone showed a statistically significant decrease in pain levels compared to RICE (P=0.02). Additionally, combining acupuncture with RICE resulted in even greater pain relief (P<0.00001) [1].
- Cure Rates: Patients receiving acupuncture exhibited higher cure rates than those treated with RICE alone (P=0.004). The combination of acupuncture and RICE further enhanced cure rates (P=0.01) [1].
Acupuncture Techniques and Protocols
The studies highlighted the efficacy of both local and distal points:
- Local Points: Ah Shi points (tender points at the site of injury), SP6 (Sanyinjiao), SP5 (Shangqiu), KD2 (Rangu), GB34 (Yanglingquan), GB41 (Zulinqi), BL62 (Shenmai), and LV3 (Taichong) were commonly utilized [2].
Additional Points Based on Injury Location:
- Medial Ankle Sprains: BL60 (Kunlun), GB40 (Qiuxu)
- Lateral Ankle Sprains: KD3 (Taixi), KD6 (Zhaohai) [2]
Needle Specifications and Techniques
- Needle Gauge and Length: Needles measuring 1 to 1.5 inches in length were employed, with selection based on the patient’s anatomy and the specific acupoint [2].
- Insertion Depth and Technique: Needles were inserted to appropriate depths to elicit the deqi response—a sensation indicative of effective needle placement. Manual stimulation techniques, including lifting, thrusting, and twisting, were applied to enhance therapeutic outcomes [2].
- Warm Needle Technique: In certain protocols, 1 cm moxa pieces were affixed to the needle handles and ignited to provide localized heat, thereby augmenting the therapeutic effect [2].
The integration of acupuncture with other modalities demonstrated superior results:
- Herbal Compresses: The application of external herbal compresses, such as the “meridian vitalization and numbness removal formula,” in conjunction with warm needle acupuncture, achieved a 95% total effective rate. This formula included herbs like Sheng Di Huang, Rou Cong Rong, Bai Ji Tian, among others [2].
- Electroacupuncture: This modality achieved a 76.7% total effective rate, offering an alternative for practitioners considering electrical stimulation techniques [2].
Patients underwent daily acupuncture sessions, five days per week, with assessments conducted after one and four weeks of treatment. This regimen underscores the importance of consistent and frequent therapy sessions to achieve optimal outcomes [2].
The integration of acupuncture into treatment protocols for acute ankle sprains offers a scientifically supported approach to pain management and functional recovery. By adhering to precise acupuncture points, employing appropriate needle techniques, and considering adjunct therapies, practitioners can enhance patient outcomes. The evidence underscores acupuncture’s role as a valuable modality in the comprehensive management of ankle injuries.
Sources:
1.Wang, Z., Zhou, Y., Zhang, X., Li, Y., & Liu, Z. “Efficacy and Safety of Acupuncture for Acute Ankle Sprains: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies 20, no. 1 (2020): Article 302.
2. HealthCMi. “Acupuncture and Herbs Stop Ankle Pain and Restore Motility.” Healthcare Medicine Institute, April 23, 2020.
