Acupuncture-based therapy for orthostatic hypotension after cervical spinal cord injury: a case report

To introduce the application of acupuncture-based therapy in a patient with orthostatic hypotension after cervical spinal cord injury. The patient presented with flaccid paralysis of all four limbs, and could only maintain normal blood pressure in the supine position after cervical spine trauma surgery. Acupuncture combined with comprehensive training of paraplegic limbs and joint mobilization training was administered. Acupoints were divided into groups A and B, acupuncture was applied once daily, with the two groups alternated. Group A included Baihui (GV20) and bilateral Quchi (LI11), Neiguan (PC6), Hegu (LI4), and Taiyuan (LU9) in the patientʹs preserved sensory areas. Group B included bilateral Zusanli (ST36), Taixi (KI3), Taibai (SP3), and Taichong (LR3) in the patientʹs sensory-deficient areas. Blood pressure was monitored using an electric standing bed before and after acupuncture treatment. After 10 treatments, the patient was able to sit out of bed at 90° and use a wheelchair. At a 2-month follow-up, the patient was able to use a wheelchair at home and had no symptoms of orthostatic hypotension such as dizziness, transient visual darkening, or tinnitus.