Acupuncture for patients with Maigne’s syndrome: A case series

Abstract

Rationale: Diagnosing the precise etiology of low back pain (LBP) is crucial for facilitating speedy recovery in patients. Maigne's syndrome (MS), commonly referred to as thoracolumbar junction syndrome, is a condition characterized by pain resulting from nerve entrapment, yet its underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. This study presents a series of six case reports wherein patients diagnosed with MS received acupuncture treatment. Patient concerns: Six individuals with LBP were included in the study, and all were diagnosed with MS. Diagnoses: The diagnosis was confirmed in all six patients through pinch-roll and thoracic vertebrae compression tests, indicating the presence of thoracolumbar junction syndrome. Interventions: Acupuncture treatment was administered to all patients, primarily targeting the T11–L2 facet joints, with additional acupoints selected based on the specific nerve entrapment of MS including the superior cluneal, subcostal, and iliohypogastric nerves. Outcomes: Following acupuncture therapy, all patients reported improvements in their LBP symptoms, while four patients also exhibited amelioration in their thoracic vertebrae compression test results. Lessons: These findings underscore the significance of promptly diagnosing the underlying cause of LBP and suggest that acupuncture may be an effective approach in alleviating MS-related pain.