Randomized Controlled Study of Superficial Needling Combined With Electroacupuncture for Treating Postherpetic Neuralgia in the Head and Face

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the treatment of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) in the head and face area, focusing on whether superficial needling combined with electroacupuncture offers advantages in relieving pain, improving mood, sleep quality, and overall quality of life. The study also explores the use of infrared thermography to objectively assess treatment effects and aims to establish clinical standards for this acupuncture approach. Patients with head and face PHN who meet specific criteria are enrolled in this randomized controlled trial. Participants are assigned to one of two groups: the experimental group receives cluster needle shallow stabbing combined with electroacupuncture treatments lasting 60 minutes each, administered every other day, three times a week, for a total of 12 treatments over 4 weeks. The control group takes oral pregabalin capsules at a dose of 150 mg twice daily for 4 weeks. The study monitors both groups before treatment, immediately after the first treatment, and at multiple follow-up points extending to 2 months after treatment ends. During the study, participants undergo evaluations of pain severity using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) at baseline, 2 weeks, 1 month, and during follow-ups at 1 and 2 months post-treatment. Secondary assessments include depression scales, sleep quality indexes, and quality of life surveys administered at the same intervals. Infrared thermography is used to correlate facial temperature changes with clinical symptoms. Safety and treatment effects are closely monitored throughout the study period, with total participation lasting several months including follow-up.

The Treatment of Postherpetic Neuralgia in the Head and Face With Superficial Needling Combined With Electroacupuncture