An eczema acupuncture research study from Germany concluded that acupuncture significantly reduced the itching associated with eczema. Findings were reported in the “Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine” in 2011.
Objective and Methods
The crucial symptom of atopic eczema is itch. Acupuncture has been shown to exhibit a significant effect on experimental itch. This eczema acupuncture research study sought to determine if acupuncture could reduce itching associated with eczema.
The study was designed as a single-blind, prospective, randomized clinical trial with an additional experimental part. 10 patients with atopic eczema were observed regarding the effect of acupuncture treatment (n = 5) compared to no treatment (n = 5) on itch intensity. In addition, a pilot trial investigated in vitro basophil CD63 expression triggered by allergen stimulation (house dust mite and grass pollen).
Results
The average itch intensity was significantly lower in the acupuncture group using a visual analog scale (−25% ± 26% [day 15–day 0]; −24% ± 31% [day 33–day 0]) than in the control group (15% ± 6% [day 15–day 0]; 29% ± 9% [day 33–day 0]).
From day 0 (before treatment) to day 15 (after 5 acupuncture treatments) as well as day 33 (after 10 acupuncture treatments), the acupuncture group consistently showed less CD63 positive basophils than the control group regarding stimulation with house dust mite and grass pollen allergen at various concentrations (5 ng/mL, 1 ng/mL, 0.5 ng/mL, or 0.25 ng/mL).
Conclusions
The eczema acupuncture research study results show a reduction of itch intensity and of in vitro allergen-induced basophil activation in patients with atopic eczema after acupuncture treatment.
In addition, reducing basophil activation can be another useful tool to investigate acupuncture in immunoglobulin E-mediated allergy.
What To Expect
This eczema acupuncture research study saw a clear reduction in itching associated with eczema. We find this in our clinic as well. The skin not only itches less, it heals faster. Markings and discoloration slowly fade away during acupuncture treatment. Acupuncture promotes skin healing, with long lasting effect.
Next Steps
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Eczema Acupuncture Research Study
If you found this eczema acupuncture research study intriguing, give us a call. We’ll be happy to discuss your specific eczema concerns. Acupuncture treatment is always custom designed for each patient. Learn how we will approach your treatment.
Resources
“Effect of Acupuncture on Allergen-Induced Basophil Activation in Patients with Atopic Eczema: A Pilot Trial”, The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine VOL. 17, NO. 4, Published Online: 17 Apr 2011 https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2009.0684
What our Clients are Saying
I developed eczema as a child and have managed the condition for years with steroid creams. Recently my stress level went up from a work situation, and the itching became intolerable. The creams didn’t help and I was desperate. Research online led me to Raleigh Acupuncture. They treated the itching by reducing my eczema. It worked better than the cream ever did. I wish I had done this 15 years ago, as my skin and itching is 90% better.
I’ve had eczema all my adult life and had resigned myself to managing it with steroid creams. I would have done this forever had my father-in-law not suggested that acupuncture could help. I was quite skeptical, knowing how stubborn this skin condition was. I have seen close to a dozen dermatologists over the years, and none of them have ever been able to do anything more than prescribe steroids. Over the counter creams never worked for me.
Pardon the long introduction, but I wanted you to know my situation. That’s why I was surprised and more than pleased to see my eczema improve substantially after receiving acupuncture treatment. After two treatments my then current flare settled down. With continued treatment my chronic patches started to recede. Itching was substantially reduced as well. I now receive what they call maintenance treatment for my eczema, which I will happily do each month.
I researched all of the top acupuncture practices in Raleigh before selecting Raleigh Acupuncture. The doctors there were thoughtful, knowledgeable, and well versed in treating eczema. They delivered on what they promised, to control and substantially resolve my eczema. I highly recommend them.
