Chronic non-specific neck pain is a common musculoskeletal disorder that significantly affects quality of life and functional ability. Conventional treatments often provide limited relief and may be associated with adverse effects. Acupuncture and Chinese herbal fumigation are commonly used therapies in traditional Chinese medicine and have shown potential benefits in pain relief and functional recovery.
This multicenter randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of acupuncture combined with Chinese herbal fumigation in patients with chronic non-specific neck pain. A total of 120 participants will be randomly assigned to three groups: acupuncture combined with Chinese herbal fumigation, acupuncture combined with sham fumigation, and acupuncture alone. All participants will receive five treatment sessions within three weeks, followed by a four-week follow-up period.
The primary outcome measure is pain intensity assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Secondary outcome measures include the Neck Disability Index (NDI), cervical range of motion, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), quality of life scale, and Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI). This study aims to provide high-quality clinical evidence regarding the effectiveness of acupuncture combined with Chinese herbal fumigation for chronic non-specific neck pain.
Aged 18 to 65 years, any gender
Diagnosed with chronic non-specific neck pain lasting ≥ 3 months
Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain score ≥ 4
Cervical range of motion reduced by ≥ 20% compared to normal range
Presence of confirmed cervical disc herniation, nerve compression, or other specific pathologies (e.g., infection, tumor, fracture, etc.)
History of cervical spine surgery or recent acute neck trauma
Concomitant severe systemic diseases (e.g., cardiovascular, hepatic, renal, hematological, or psychiatric disorders)
Pregnancy or breastfeeding