Effects of a Mechanical Needle Stimulation Pad on Chronic Low Back Pain

Effects of a Mechanical Needle Stimulation Pad on Chronic Low Back Pain

The needle stimulation pad is a self-care device, which has been promoted for pain control and well-being. The aim of the study was to test the efficacy of the pad for chronic/recurrent low back pain treatment.

Patients with non-specific chronic or recurrent low back pain were selected from a large health insurance company database and advised to use the pad daily for two weeks; outcomes were assessed at baseline, weeks 2 and 14. Primary outcome measure was pain intensity at week 2; secondary outcome measures included the Oswestry disability index (ODI), health-related quality of life (SF-36), the fear avoidance beliefs questionnaire (FABQ), analgesic medication consumption and safety.

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Inclusion Criteria:

• chronic or recurrent low back pain in the past 12 months
• average pain intensity 4 out of 10 points

Exclusion Criteria:

• malignant back pain
• congenital deformities of the spine
• dystonia or other movement disorders
• spinal surgery within 12 months prior
• pregnancy
• dermatological diseases in the areas treated
• tendency for hemorrhages
• severe mental illness
• recent treatment with anticoagulation, corticoid medication, acupuncture