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Efficacy of combined electroacupuncture and moxibustion for treatment of neurogenic bladder after spinal cord injury: A retrospective analysis

Medicine, 2024 · DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000040909 · Published: December 1, 2024

Alternative MedicineNeurologyRehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study investigates whether combining electroacupuncture with moxibustion is more effective than electroacupuncture alone for treating neurogenic bladder in patients with spinal cord injuries. The research showed that the combined treatment improved bladder function, reduced urinary tract infections, and increased bladder capacity compared to electroacupuncture alone. These findings suggest that integrating traditional Chinese medicine with modern techniques could offer a new approach for managing neurogenic bladder and improving patient outcomes.

Study Duration
January 2021 and August 2023
Participants
90 patients with neurogenic bladder after spinal cord injury
Evidence Level
Retrospective study

Key Findings

  • 1
    The study group (electroacupuncture combined with moxibustion) showed significantly greater improvement in bladder function compared to the control group (electroacupuncture alone).
  • 2
    The combination therapy reduced the incidence of urinary tract infection, decreased residual urine volume, and increased bladder capacity.
  • 3
    The efficacy rate was significantly higher in the study group (95.6%) compared to the control group (75.6%).

Research Summary

This retrospective study evaluated the clinical efficacy of combined electroacupuncture and moxibustion for the treatment of neurogenic bladder in patients with spinal cord injury. The study found that the combined treatment was more effective than electroacupuncture alone in improving bladder function, reducing urinary tract infections, and increasing bladder capacity. The authors conclude that electroacupuncture combined with moxibustion can reduce the risk of urinary tract infection, decrease residual urine volume, and increase bladder capacity in patients with neurogenic bladder, thereby achieving balanced bladder function.

Practical Implications

Clinical Practice

Clinicians can consider incorporating moxibustion alongside electroacupuncture for improved outcomes in neurogenic bladder treatment.

Future Research

Further studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods are needed to confirm the long-term efficacy of the combined treatment.

TCM Integration

This study supports the integration of traditional Chinese medicine with modern medical techniques for comprehensive patient care.

Study Limitations

  • 1
    Single-center retrospective study, which may introduce bias and limit the extrapolation of results.
  • 2
    Small sample size, which limits the statistical power of the study.
  • 3
    Relatively short follow-up duration, making it difficult to assess the long-term efficacy of the treatment.

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