Comparison of Superficial and Deep Acupuncture in the Treatment of Lumbar Myofascial Pain: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Study

OBJECTIVEThe aim of the study was to compare the therapeutic effect of the superficial and in-depth insertion of acupuncture needles in the treatment of patients with chronic lumbar myofascial pain. DESIGNA prospective randomized double-blind study of superficial and deep acupuncture was conducted. SETTINGThe study was conducted in the Pain Service Unit of the University of Padova. PATIENTSThe study comprised 42 patients with lumbar myofascial pain who were divided into two equal groups (A and B). INTERVENTIONIn group A, the needle was introduced in the skin at a depth of 2 mm, whereas in group B the needle was placed deeply into muscular tissue. The treatment was planned for a cycle of eight sessions. OUTCOME MEASURESThe intensity of pain was evaluated with the McGill Pain Questionnaire before and after treatment and at the 3-month follow-up examination. RESULTSAlthough at the end of the treatment there was no evidence of significant statistical differences between the two different groups, pain reduction was greater in the group treated with deep acupuncture. A statistical difference existed between the two groups at the 3-month follow up, with a better result in the deeply stimulated group. CONCLUSIONSClinical results show that deep stimulation has a better analgesic effect when compared with superficial stimulation.