Improvement of triceps muscle weakness in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy using Korean medicine therapy including shinbaro-2 pharmacopuncture: A CARE-compliant case series
Abstract
Rationale: Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is the most prevalent spinal cord impairment among adults, primarily due to age-related degenerative changes. Although surgical interventions are commonly recommended for severe cases, the optimal timing and procedural complexities remain controversial. Evidence supporting the efficacy of Korean medicine (KM) as a treatment alternative for CSM is currently limited. Patient concerns: This report details 2 cases involving middle-aged Korean patients presenting with significant neck pain, upper extremity numbness, and muscle weakness. Case 1 involved a 50-year-old male (172 cm, 80 kg) experiencing left arm numbness, muscle weakness, and neck pain persisting for 3 months. Case 2 involved a 51-year-old male (182 cm, 85 kg) with persistent right arm and neck symptoms for 12 months. Diagnoses: Both patients were diagnosed with cervical compressive myelopathy associated with herniated intervertebral disc – Case 1 at cervical levels C4–C6 and Case 2 at cervical levels C6–C7. Interventions: Patients received integrated KM treatments, including acupuncture, pharmacopuncture (particularly Shinbaro pharmacopuncture), herbal medicine, and Chuna manual therapy. Outcomes: Both patients exhibited significant improvements in neck and arm pain, assessed via numeric rating scales. Additionally, manual muscle testing indicated notable enhancements in triceps brachii muscle strength. Lessons: The reported cases highlight KM treatment as a promising…
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Evidence Hub reads this as a case series, done in people. Its evidence level is 5 of 5 (Very low · case / narrative / animal / in vitro / in silico). Case reports, narrative reviews, and animal, cell or computer-model studies give the weakest evidence for human health.
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