Different intensities of electroacupuncture for peripheral facial paralysis sequelae: study protocol for a randomized placebo-controlled trial

Abstract

Abstract Background: Peripheral facial paralysis (PFP) is a common neurological disease. Many patients have obtained benefits from the treatment of PFP sequelae by electroacupuncture (EA). However, there is limited evidence for the efficacy between different EA intensities. Hence, this study presents a new approach based on different EA intensities to verify the effectiveness by combining neurological function scales in the sequelae of PFP. Methods: In this placebo-controlled trial, a total of 66 patients with peripheral facial paralysis sequelae will be randomly divided into sensory threshold stimulation, motor threshold stimulation and sham EA groups. All patients undergo two periods in this study, including the treatment period (56 days) and the follow-up period (30 days). House-Brackmann grade and facial disability index scale will be measured as primary outcome before, 4 weeks treatment, after treatment and follow-up. The secondary outcome measures will be facial nerve electromyography (EMG) and blink reflex (BR) detection before and after treatments. Conclusion: This trial will evaluate the effect of different EA intensities for treating sequelae of PFP compared to sham EA. We hope this trial will provide effective treatment parameters for PFP sequelae. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: ChiCTR2200062310. Date: August 1, 2022.