Bloodletting acupuncture for treating low back pain

Effects of Bloodletting Acupuncture for Subacute and Chronic Non-specific Low Back Pain - a Randomized Controlled Trial

Not applicable Interventional Charite University, Berlin, Germany · NCT06190366

This study is testing if bloodletting acupuncture at different points can help people with ongoing low back pain feel better compared to those who aren't receiving treatment.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment108 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorCharite University, Berlin, Germany Academic / other
Locations1 site (Berlin)
Trial IDNCT06190366 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effects of bloodletting acupuncture at two different locations: the fossa poplitea and the regio glutaea, in patients suffering from subacute and chronic non-specific low back pain. Participants will be compared against a waiting list control group to assess the efficacy of the interventions. The study aims to determine which acupuncture site may provide better pain relief and overall improvement in symptoms. Patients must have a confirmed diagnosis and meet specific pain intensity criteria to be eligible.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals diagnosed with subacute or chronic non-specific low back pain lasting at least 6 weeks and experiencing significant pain.

Not a fit: Patients with serious illnesses, coagulation disorders, or those currently undergoing other treatments for low back pain may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could offer a novel and effective treatment option for patients with persistent low back pain.

How similar studies have performed: While acupuncture has been studied for various conditions, the specific approach of bloodletting acupuncture for low back pain is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Specialist confirmed diagnosis of subacute or chronic non-specific low back pain for at least 6 weeks prior to inclusion
* Average pain intensity with at least 50 mm on the VAS from 0 to 100 mm

Exclusion criteria:

* Serious illnesses
* Poor general condition
* Coagulation disorder, therapy with anticoagulants
* Thrombophlebitis, skin inflammation in the area of the lower extremities
* Alcohol, drug or medication addiction
* Pregnancy
* Lack of willingness to cooperate, linguistically or mentally unable to understand the contents of the study
* Participation in another clinical trial during the study period
* Starting a new therapy for the treatment of low back pain in the last 2 weeks

Where this trial is running

Berlin

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Back Pain, Low
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.