Acupuncture with Bleeding Techniques and Autogenic Breathing for Sickle Cell Pain Crisis: A Case Report

Abstract

Pain crises in sickle cell anemia (SCA) are often managed with opioids, which can cause adverse effects and reduced function. This report describes a patient with SCA who experienced frequent vaso-occlusive pain crises requiring ongoing analgesic therapies. The patient completed a short outpatient course of acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to improve circulation and relieve pain. The patient reported less pain, more daily functioning, and used fewer opioids during treatment. No adverse effects occurred. Treatment sessions were few (four), and follow-up was short. This case shows acupuncture and TCM may be feasible additional therapies for pain in SCA and supports further study of this combined approach.