OBJECTIVES

To determine the effect of neurogenic acupoint dry cupping therapy on high sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) level, pain perception & intensity, and life impact of pelvic pain in women with chronic pelvic pain (CPP), with regard to the biological and neurophysiological impacts of dry cupping on acupoint.

METHODS

Thirty women with CPP were randomly divided into two equal groups; the study group received dry cupping on neurogenic acupoints plus lifestyle modifications for 8 weeks (n=15), while the control group received only lifestyle modifications for 8 weeks (n=15). Women were assessed pre- and post-rehabilitation program with the hs-CRP blood test, the short-form McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ), and the pelvic pain impact questionnaire (PPIQ).

RESULTS

Comparing both groups post-treatment revealed that there were significant reductions in levels of hs-CRP, and scores of SF-MPQ & PPIQ (p<0.05) in the study group compared with the control group. Also, there were significant positive correlations between hs-CRP and both SF-MPQ "Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Present Pain Intensity (PPI) index & Pain Rating Index (PRI)" and PPIQ (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Neurogenic acupoint cupping therapy had significantly improving effects on the degree of inflammation, pain perception & intensity, and life impact of pelvic pain in women with CPP.