Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs Relieve Long-Term Symptoms of Lyme Disease: A Case Report

Abstract

Background

Lyme disease has a unique presentation in each patient with various pain syndromes, including migraines and musculoskeletal pain complaints. This case report supports the effectiveness of acupuncture as a complementary therapy for migraines and some musculoskeletal pain. 

Case Description

A 44-year-old female presented with symptoms related to Lyme disease, including brain fog, migraines, insomnia, fatigue, and musculoskeletal pain. She had been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), fibromyalgia, and Lyme disease, with the latter confirmed by a laboratory diagnosis, before starting acupuncture treatment and Chinese herbs. During a course of acupuncture treatments, the patient began antibiotic therapy for Lyme disease and then experienced Herxheimer reactions. Acupuncture treatment included body acupuncture and the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA) points. After 10 months of acupuncture and herbal therapy, the patient’s pain and other symptoms associated with Lyme significantly improved.

Conclusion

This case suggests that treatment with acupuncture and Chinese herbs may be beneficial in reducing Lyme disease symptoms and Herxheimer reactions to antibiotic treatment (Dhakal & Sbar, 2021).