Effect of electroacupuncture on brachial plexus post-traumatic neuralgia: A case report

Abstract

Background: Brachial plexus injury is a serious peripheral nerve injury that severely disables upper limbs and affects patients' daily life and work Acupuncture and Electroacupuncture have traditionally been used to treat neuropathic pain. However, there is still lacking evidence as regard to their effects on pain following traumatic nerve and plexus lesions. Neurotmesis after brachial plexus injury also causes movement disorders of the denervated muscles and loss of sensory function in the skin.

Case report: We report a case of a brachial plexus injury due to humeral fracture, predominantly involving the lower trunk and the medial cord, treated with electroacupuncture. Results. We documented a positive significant response, based on clinical examination, pain scores and neurophysiologic findings.

Conclusions: Repeated Electroacupuncture can relieve neuropathic pain due to brachial plexus injury. However, additional studies are needed to verify the efficacy and effectiveness of this approach.

Keywords: Acupuncture; Brachial neuralgia; Complementary Therapies.