Ear acupuncture aimed at cutting opioid use after wrist surgery – but trial never started

NCT ID NCT05974254

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study planned to test whether giving ear acupuncture during wrist fracture surgery could lower the amount of opioid painkillers patients need afterward. It was designed for adults aged 18–64 having a specific type of wrist repair. However, the trial was withdrawn before enrolling anyone, so no data were collected.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

electroacupuncture (ear acupuncture)

What this could lead to

If it had worked, this could have pointed toward a drug-free way to manage pain after wrist surgery and reduce reliance on opioids.

What could go wrong

The trial was withdrawn before any participants were enrolled, so no results are available. It is unknown whether the approach would have been effective or safe.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Pain, Postoperative radius fracture Wrist Fractures

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Ben Taub Hospital

    Houston, Texas, 77030, United States