A case of progressive systemic sclerosis and acupuncture / 全日本鍼灸学会雑誌

ABSTRACT

Effects of acupuncture were studied using various measurements on a case of PSS (Progressive Systemic Sclerosis) in which symptoms had not been improved by chemo-therapy nor rehabilitation. Acupuncture was undertaken in a therapy room with constant temperature and humidity. The measurements were done before and after the weekly treatment. Although skin temperature and the contact area of the hand showed significant changes, no obvious improvement was seen in systemic symptoms such as bowel movements. Point selection and measurements employed here differ from those of Maeda et al., there remain many questions including duration and mechanism. Since no other methods have been clinically established as effective for treating this disease, acupuncture should be considered.