Differences between Acupuncture at Local Points and Balance Method Acupuncture on Musculoskeletal Pain

Background: Acupuncture at Local Points (LA) was expected to overcome local pain by activating local analgesia and anti-inflammatory, improving microcirculation, and enhancing growth factors for tissue repair. Balance Method Acupuncture (BMA) is claimed to have effectiveness and immediate reaction in pain cases. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of acupuncture at LA with BMA in overcoming musculoskeletal disability. Methods: This was a quantitative study with a randomized control trial (RCT) design on people with neuromusculoskeletal pain. A total of 34 samples were divided randomly into two groups where 17 subjects received LA and 17 subjects received BMA. The outcome was assessed with the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Results: The results showed a difference between LA and BMA effectiveness although it was not statistically significant (p=0.059). Both LA and BMA can be used as effective acupuncture methods to improve ODI in shoulder, lower back, and knee pain sufferers. Conclusion: Further research with larger research subjects is needed to provide better results.