Acupuncture may ease chronic pain in spinal cord injury

NCT ID NCT03197675

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: University of Maryland, Baltimore Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 06, 2026 · Last updated Jul 07, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial investigates whether acupuncture can reduce pain and improve function in people with spinal cord injury. Participants receive either acupuncture with electrical stimulation plus ear acupuncture, or standard care alone, for eight weeks. The study measures pain levels, quality of life, and functional recovery over three months.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: acupuncture with electrical stimulation and auricular acupuncture
What this could lead to: If effective, acupuncture could offer a drug-free option to manage chronic pain and improve quality of life for people with spinal cord injury.
What could go wrong: This is a mid-stage trial with a moderate number of participants. Previous studies have shown mixed results, and the effect may be small or not lasting.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Chronic Pain spinal cord injury

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

SPINAL CORD INJURIES

Contacts and locations

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Locations

R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, University of Maryland Medical Center

Baltimore, Maryland, 21201, United States

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