Imagined Acupuncture for Postoperative Pain

This trial tests whether imagining acupuncture can reduce pain after spine surgery. Participants will watch a daily video for a week, guiding them through the imagined acupuncture process, known as Video-Guided Acupuncture Imagery Treatment (VGAIT). The study will assess whether this approach reduces the need for pain medications like opioids and aids recovery after surgery. Individuals who have never undergone spine surgery and are having a 1- to 2-level spine procedure may be eligible to join. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to explore innovative pain management techniques without medications.

Research shows that video-guided acupuncture imagery treatment (VGAIT) is generally safe. Studies have not reported any serious side effects from VGAIT itself. Some research indicates that VGAIT can help relieve chronic low back pain, suggesting it is well-tolerated by patients. Specifically, after VGAIT, participants could handle more pressure before feeling pain, demonstrating a positive response without negative effects. This evidence suggests that VGAIT is safe for treating pain.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about Video-Guided Acupuncture Imagery Treatment (VGAIT) for postoperative pain because it introduces a non-invasive, drug-free approach to pain management. Unlike traditional pain relief methods that often rely on medications like opioids, VGAIT uses guided imagery to mentally simulate the effects of acupuncture. This innovative technique could reduce reliance on pain medications and minimize their side effects. Additionally, by engaging patients' minds in visualization, VGAIT might enhance their overall pain management experience and recovery.

Research has shown that Video-Guided Acupuncture Imagery Treatment (VGAIT) can help reduce pain. Studies have found that VGAIT significantly eases chronic low back pain. One study revealed that participants experienced less pain when pressure was applied, indicating improved pain tolerance. This treatment uses imagery to mimic the effects of real acupuncture, which might explain its benefits. In this trial, participants in Group 1 will receive VGAIT to evaluate its effectiveness for sudden pain after surgeries like spinal procedures. Meanwhile, Group 2 will serve as a control group, receiving an educational video without any simulated acupuncture intervention.¹²³⁴⁵