Acupuncture in oral neuropathy/ BMS patient: A case report.

Cynthia Diep, DDS,LAC; Fariba S. Younai, DDS; R. Merrill, DDS,MS; S. Arman, DDS, MPH;
Y. Phan, DDS, MS. Affiliation: Orofacial Pain and Oral Medicine Clinic at UCLA

Abstract:

Aim of investigation:
This case report aims to evaluate the effectiveness in treatment of burning mouth syndrome with integrative oral medicine approach combining the use of both acupuncture and Clonazepam. Case report of 72 yo female was diagnosed of BMS with other medical conditions:
Sjogren syndrome, RA, low back and neck pain.
Current medications: Clonazepam 0.5mg TID
Outcome: slight improvement.

Methods:
Total 6 sessions of acupuncture, once per week was added to her clonazepam regimen.

-First 5’: ear shen men, SI2, Yin Tang, ear thalamus.
-2nd 6’: 6 Ashi points in the mouth for 6′ then remove these intra-Oral needles -3rd 15’: 4 doors, 4 gates, SP6, GB21, ST40,36,6, li20, REN 23,22 for 20′.

Result:

Initial visit: she had continuous pain 8-9/10.
After a year taking Clonazepam: pain became 6-7/10 continuously. After each session of acupuncture, patient had 2-3 days 0/10
After all, pain was intermittent and varied from 4-5/10

Discussion:

Treating BMS with medications often cause many side-effects and potential psychological dependence. Adding the acupuncture treatment has shown effective in further reduction of the pain level.

Conclusion

Acupuncture may provide a new perspective for the treatment of pain/oral burning in cases of BMS. This integrative oral medicine approach could be implement for synergetic enhancement on outcomes.

Acknowledgements and/or Funding Source: N/A