This study aimed to explore the clinical efficacy of the “Tongdu Huoxue” acupuncture method in treating patients with lumbar disc herniation.
Methods:
A total of 192 patients with lumbar disc herniation admitted to our hospital from January 2024 to September 2025 were randomly divided into a study group (conventional treatment + “Tongdu Huoxue” acupuncture treatment) and a control group (conventional treatment), with n = 96 patients in each group. We compared the two groups in terms of therapeutic efficacy, TCM syndrome scores, functional recovery [Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA)], pain [visual analog scale (VAS)], electromyographic signals of lumbar extensor muscles [mean power frequency (MPF), integrated electromyography (IEMG)], lumbar disc magnetic resonance parameters (intervertebral space height, sagittal diameter of epidural indentation, longitudinal axis value of epidural indentation), and adverse reactions.
Results:
Compared with the control group, the study group showed higher JOA score, MPF, total effective rate, and IEMG and lower TCM syndrome score, VAS score, intervertebral space height, sagittal diameter of epidural indentation, and longitudinal axis value of epidural indentation (P < 0.05). No serious adverse reactions were observed in either group.
Conclusion:
The “Tongdu Huoxue” acupuncture method demonstrates significant therapeutic effects in patients with lumbar disc herniation, improves relevant imaging indicators related to intervertebral disc protrusion, alleviates pain symptoms, and promotes functional recovery.
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