Treatment Modalities for Notalgia Paresthetica Including OMT

Abstract

Background: Notalgia paresthetica (NP) is a type of neuropathy associated with pruritus, dysesthesias and sometimes pain. Most etiologies stem from trauma and entrapment of cutaneous branches of the upper thoracic nerves. Objectives: We report a case of NP treated with osteopathic manipulative therapy (OMT) along with a review of previous treatment modalities performed per the literature. Methods: A comprehensive literature search using PubMed was performed on NP and its treatment. Keywords used include notalgia paresthetica, treatment, osteopathic manipulation, neuropathy and pruritus. Results: Our patient reported a 30% reduction in severity of pruritus after receiving OMT, with full intention of following up in office for additional treatment. Conclusion: OMT monotherapy or combination treatments may prove to be efficacious with little to no added risk.