Assessing the Efficacy of Imagined Acupuncture for Postoperative Acute Pain Management in Spinal Surgery
Jingping Wang, MD, Ph.D.
Summary
The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate whether imagined acupuncture can reduce postoperative acute pain in adult patients undergoing spinal surgery. The main questions it aims to answer are: Does video-guided imagined acupuncture improve postoperative pain control? Does the intervention reduce opioid consumption and improve functional recovery in the immediate postoperative period? Researchers will compare the imagined acupuncture group to the control education video group to see if imagery-based intervention leads to better pain outcomes and reduced analgesic use. Participants will: Watch a 30-minute video once daily for 7 consecutive days after surgery Complete pain and function assessments during the hospital stay and postoperative follow-up
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18+ years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: * Undergoing 1- to 2-level primary spine surgery * Aged 18 years or older * Willing and able to receive postoperative imagined acupuncture (VGAIT) * Able to provide written informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Undergoing revision surgery or procedures involving more than 3 spinal levels * History of prior spinal surgery * Intraoperative complications likely to interfere with postoperative pain assessment * Diagnosed with severe cognitive impairment or psychiatric disorders that impair participation or communication * Pregnant or breastfeeding * Unable to cooperate with…
Interventions
- Othervideo-guided acupuncture imagery treatment (VGAIT)
Unlike traditional acupuncture, VGAIT can be self-administered and does not require physical needle insertion, making it a practical alternative for patients seeking non-invasive pain management.
- OtherEducation video
Education video about postoperative precautions
Location
- Massachusetts General HospitalBoston, Massachusetts