Procaine Injections in Myofascial Tension Points in the Treatment of Anxiety Disorders: A Case Series
Abstract
This case series explored the potential therapeutic effects of 0.5% procaine injections in myofascial points for patients with severe anxiety. Anxiety disorders involve excessive fear and tension, often affecting daily activities. These disorders are linked to neurological circuits, inflammatory responses, and the sympathetic nervous system, which contribute to pain and stress. Procaine, a local anesthetic, is thought to interrupt the cycle of neurogenic inflammation and nociceptor excitation, potentially alleviating symptoms of anxiety. Six patients, assessed using the Beck Anxiety Inventory, were treated with procaine injections. Results showed significant improvement: four patients (66.7%) reduced their anxiety from severe to mild, and two patients (33.3%) from severe to minimal. The pre-treatment average Beck Anxiety Inventory score was 39, and the post-treatment average was 10. These promising results suggest procaine as a possible treatment for anxiety disorders, warranting further investigation in larger clinical studies.
How strong is the evidence?
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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