Clinical observation on acupuncture treatment in 35 cases of diabetic gastroparesis.

80 patients suffering from diabetes combined with gastric problems (fullness and distension of the upper abdomen, anorexia, and nausea and vomiting in severe cases) were divided into 3 groups. All patients continued with their normal treatment for managing the diabetes, but in addition the 35 cases in the treatment group received acupuncture, 25 cases in the first control group received domperidone, whist the 20 remaining cases in the second control group received no additional treatment. The patients were assigned to the various groups randomly, and the groups were broadly similar in terms of age, sex, disease duration and severity. The acupuncture points selected for the treatment group were Zhongwan REN-12, Zusanli ST-36, Neiguan P-6, Gongsun SP-4, Pishu BL-20 and Weishu BL-21. For disharmony between the Liver and Spleen, Quchi L.I.-11, Yanglingquan GB-34, and Taichong LIV-3 were added. For weakness of the Spleen and Stomach, Qihai REN-6, Guanyuan REN-4 and Sanyinjiao SP-6 were added, with a moxa stick being applied during needle retention at Qihai REN-6, Guanyuan REN-4, Zhongwan REN-12 and Zusanli ST-36. Needles were manipulated using the even method, with retention for 30 minutes after deqi and further manipulation at 5 minute intervals during this time. A course of treatment consisted of 10 days of daily treatment. 2 courses were given with a 5 day interval in between. In the first control group domperidone was given three times daily for 25 days. All 3 groups were assessed after a 25 day period. Symptomatic improvement was assessed using a point scoring system and by barium meal examination. In the treatment group, 10 patients were cured, and treatment was markedly effective in 10 cases, effective in 13 cases and ineffective in 2 cases. In the first control group the figures were 2,6,10 and 7 respectively, and in the second control group the figures were 0 cured, 1 markedly effective, 7 effective and 12 ineffective. The total effective rate was 94% for the treatment group, 72% for the control group given domperidone, and 40% for the control group given no additional treatment.