OBJECTIVETo compare the difference in the therapeutic effect on lower back myofascitis between the combined therapy of penetration needling on yang meridian of the back and electroacupuncture and the western medication of Ibuprofen capsules, and probe into a better method of treatment for lower back myofascitis.

METHODSSixty cases of lower back myofascitis were randomly divided into two groups. 30 cases in observation group were treated with penetration needling combined with electroacupuncture on the back shu points on the first line of the Bladder Meridian and the points of the corresponding levels on the Governor Vessel. 30 cases in control group were treated with Ibuprofen capsules. The treatment session was 30 days. The therapeutic effects were compared and the Visual Analog Scales (VAS) and Oswestry disability index were detected before and after treatment in two groups separately.

RESULTSThe total effective rate in observation group was 96.7% (29/30), which was superior to that (73.3%, 22/30) in control group. VAS and Oswestry disability index decreased in either group (P < 0.01, P < 0.05). The improvement extent in observation group was superior to that in control group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONThe therapy of penetration needling on yang meridian of the back combined with electroacupuncture has the advantageous therapeutic effect on lower back myofascitis as compared with the medication of Ibuprofen capsules, which can release pain and improve the functional disturbance effectively.