Laser auriculotherapy associated with cupping therapy in chronic spinal pain: Randomized controlled clinical trial

Musculoskeletal spine disorders are common causes of chronic pain and impair functionality. Laser auriculotherapy and cupping has played a significant role in the treatment of chronic pain. Objective: to evaluate the effect of laser auriculotherapy associated with cupping at systemic acupuncture points on chronic spinal pain. Methods: Randomized controlled clinical trial. Volunteers underwent three evaluations: an initial evaluation, a final evaluation immediately after the last intervention session, and a 15-day follow-up. The pain was identified using the numeric pain scale. The pain threshold was also evaluated against mechanical stimulation using a Digital Dynamometer at specific points in the cervical, thoracic and lumbar regions. Fifty individuals with chronic spinal pain, randomized into groups: experimental (n = 25), submitted to 10 sessions of auriculotherapy with laser and cupping therapy and control (n = 25). Results: The experimental group achieved pain intensity reduction between pre and post and follow-up moments (p