Objective:
Needling technique is an important factor contributing to the efficacy of an
acupuncture point. In previous studies, Sanyinjiao (
SP 6) had an immediate
analgesic effect on primary
dysmenorrhea (PD) with strengthened acupuncture stimulation. Transverse
needling without De Qi is accepted more easily by patients who dislike De Qi. This kind of
needling also has certain effects on some conditions. This study compared the immediate
analgesic effect of perpendicular De Qi
needling with transverse non-De Qi
needling at
SP 6 in patients with PD. Materials and Methods: Twenty-six participants with PD were randomly allocated to a perpendicular
needling group (Group A; n = 13) or a transverse
needling group (Group B; n = 13). Visual analogue scale (VAS; 0-100 mm)
pain levels and skin-temperature measurements were determined at 4
acupuncture points before and after the interventions. Results: Severity of
dysmenorrhea was significantly decreased at 30 minutes after the interventions and
at 10 minutes after needle removal in both groups (Group A: 35.77 mm and 39.62 mm less
pain, respectively, on VAS; P < 0.001; Group B: 22.69 mm and 30.38 mm less
pain, respectively, on VAS; P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in VAS-P [VAS for
pain] scores after the interventions between the 2 groups (P > 0.05). Skin temperature at CV 4 was significantly increased after the intervention in group A only (P = 0.001). Conclusions: Both perpendicular and transverse
needling at
SP 6 had an immediate
analgesic effect on primary
dysmenorrhea. Proper
needling techniques may be applied according to the tolerance of patients.