Is there a vasospasmolytic effect of acupuncture in patients with secondary Raynaud phenomenon?
BACKGROUND
Raynaud phenomenon (RP) is a vasospastic disorder of the digital arteries. Severe forms are found in patients with connective tissue diseases. Vasospasmolytic therapies are often limited by side effects such as orthostatic hypotension.


METHODS
We investigated therefore the effect of acupuncture in a double blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial in patients with secondary RP. The study was performed during the winter season by licensed acupuncturists weekly for 8 weeks (points chosen for the verum group: L.I.4, S.J.5, St.36, P.6, Du.20, Ex.28).


RESULTS
An improvement was detected in both groups but there was no significant effect on clinical symptoms - based on patient diaries (average number of attacks before and after treatment: verum 1.9 +/- 2.0 vs. 1.4 +/- 1.7 attacks/ day and placebo 2.8 +/- 1.8 vs. 1.9 +/- 1.1; duration of attacks: verum 15 +/- 12 vs. 12 +/- 9 min. and placebo 31 +/- 17 vs. 16 +/- 6; n.s.) or on skin microcirculation, measured by local cold testing.


CONCLUSIONS
A specific vasospasmolytic effect of acupuncture could not be proven. This may be due to minor morphologic changes of supplying arteries or a severe local defect in endothelial function rather than a neurological disturbance which might be influenced by acupuncture. Much larger studies would be needed to identify the possible small benefit from acupuncture. If long-term relief is not obtained, it is unlikely to be cost-effective.
Hahn
Martin
M
Kreiskrankenhaus Rottweil, Dept. of Dermatology, Germany. martin.hahn@hautpraxis.com
Steins
Anke
A
Möhrle
Matthias
M
Blum
Andreas
A
Jünger
Michael
M
D015670:Acupuncture Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D000328:Adult; D001783:Blood Flow Velocity; D005260:Female; D005385:Fingers / Q000098:blood supply*; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D011928:Raynaud Disease / Q000628:therapy*; D020127:Recovery of Function; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014664:Vasodilation