Effect of Auricular Therapy on Pain Intensity Depression Anxiety Stress and Fatigue Level in Patients with Non specific Low Back Pain A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

ABSTRACT newlineBackground: newlineNon-specific low back pain (NSLBP) is common musculoskeletal disorder affecting up to 80% of adults and presents a complex healthcare challenge characterized by multidimensional pain experiences that extend beyond simple physical symptoms. The physical aspects of NSLBP are marked by persistent musculoskeletal discomfort that significantly disrupts daily functioning, accompanied by reduced functional mobility and a concerning potential for chronic progression. There are evidences in support of safety and efficacy of auricular therapy for NSLBP management, although this therapy remains inadequately understood for the same. The aim of this research was to compare the effects of auricular therapy with usual care on self-rated physical disability, depression, anxiety and stress in patients with non-specific low back pain. newlineMethodology: newlineThis randomized control trial was conducted among 65 adult patients of 20-60 years having primary complaint of nonspecific low back pain of at least 6-week duration. The intervention Group of 31 patients underwent auricular therapy with patient education and the control group of 34 patients received usual care. The outcome measures, numerical pain rating scale (NPRS), Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ), Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS - 21), PROMIS measures (Patient Reported Outcome Measurement Information system) Fatigue 13a were assessed at baseline, 4th week and 6th weeks. The data was analyzed using IBM SPSS v20. newlineResults: newlineThe mean (SD) age in experimental group were 41.18 (9.67) years and median (IQR) age was 43 (33.75 48) years. In control group, the mean (SD) age was 41.36 (8.77) years and median (IQR) age was 43 (35 - 46) years. In the experimental group, there were 14 (41.18%) males and 20 (58.82%) females whereas, in the control group there were 12 (33.33%) males and 24 (66.67%) females. The age, sex or BMI did not differ significantly between the two groups. It was found that both intervention and control group showed significant improvements in NPRS, RMDQ-G, DASS-21 questionnaire and PROMIS Fatigue T-scores at 6 weeks, although, auricular therapy was shown to provides a more pronounced effect compare to usual care. newline newlineConclusion: newlineThe results demonstrate that Auricular Therapy, when compared to Usual Care, leads to significant improvements in pain intensity and physical disability. However, changes in depression, anxiety, stress and fatigue levels showed equal effects in both the groups. newlineThese benefits become apparent by the 4th week of treatment and are maintained or further improved by the 6th week. This study provides preliminary evidence for the efficacy of Auricular Therapy in managing NSLBP and its associated symptoms. The findings suggest that Auricular Therapy could be an adjunct treatment for NSLBP, offering a holistic approach that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of chronic pain. newline newlineKey Words: newlineAuricular Therapy, Lower Back Pain, PROMIS, NPRS, RMDQG, DASS-21 newline newline newline