After tonsillectomy, acupuncture provides pain relief for children without side effects

Source: Science Daily, Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology, U-T San Diego

With the commonly prescribed codeine now banned for use in children after tonsil removal surgery, more consideration is being given to alternative ways to help children manage this pain. A study in the Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology found that acupuncture is an effective and safe option.

More than 30 patients in the study received acupuncture treatment after a tonsillectomy. Prior to the treatment their pain was rated a 5.52/10. Fifteen minutes after the acupuncture treatment, that score reduced to a 1.92/10, a difference that is statistically significant. The benefits of the treatment lasted about two and a half days, and no adverse side effects were reported.

The study’s author explains that with the FDA ban on codeine, many parents are relying on over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen for pain relief after the procedure, which may also have risks and side effects for young children. WIth most children experiencing some pain 10 days after a tonsillectomy, acupuncture provides a safe and effective option for pain relief.