Acupuncture in the treatment of stroke patients in the subacute stage: a randomized, controlled study

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether acupuncture treatment, in addition to standard stroke rehabilitation, given to stroke patients in the subacute stage over a period of six weeks, would influence motor function, activity of daily life and quality of life. After obtaining informed consent, 45 patients (median age 57 years) were randomized into a control group (n = 21) and an acupuncture group (n = 24). Time from stroke onset to inclusion in the study was median 40 days. Inclusion criteria was hemiparesis following a first-ever stroke. When included, and six weeks later, all patients were evaluated with the Motor Assessment Scale for stroke patients, Sunnaas Index of ADL and Nottingham Health Profile. All patients underwent a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary, individually adapted rehabilitation program. The patients in the acupuncture group were additionally diagnosed according to traditional Chinese medicine, and classical acupuncture was given for 30 minutes 3–4 times weekly for 6 weeks. Both groups improved significantly in motor function and activity of daily life. However, the acupuncture group improved significantly more, and only the acupuncture group rated a significantly improved quality of life. Our results indicate that acupuncture treatment gives an additive therapeutic benefit when given to stroke patients during their rehabilitation program in the subacute phase.