Acupuncture for Pre-Procedure Anxiety

Shen Men Acupuncture for Anxiety Preceding Lumbar Epidural Injections in Acupuncture-naive Patients: a Randomized Controlled Trial

It is common for patients undergoing spinal injections to report anxiety prior to the injection. Although sedation, general anesthesia, and medications can be used to reduce anxiety, the use of sedative agents during the procedure can increase the risk of spinal cord injury. The purpose of this study is to see if receiving acupuncture before a spinal injection can effectively reduce patients' anxiety. Only patients who are scheduled to receive a spinal injection at this institution will be eligible for the study.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 18+
• Spine pathology that meets criteria for lumbar epidural injection

Exclusion Criteria:

• Unable to provide consent
• Contraindications to acupuncture (e.g., rash, skin infection, sensory loss in ear)
• Previous experience of acupuncture
• Age <18
• Pregnant women
• Non-English or Non-Spanish speaking