Spinal subarachnoid hematoma as a complication of an intramuscular stimulation : case report and a review of literatures

Bioelectric medicine: unveiling the therapeutic potential of micro-current stimulation

Bioelectric medicine (BEM) refers to the use of electrical signals to modulate the electrical activity of cells and tissues in the body for therapeutic purposes. In this review, we particularly focused on the microcurrent stimulation (MCS), because, this can take place at the cellular level with sub-sensory application unlike other stimuli. These extremely low-level currents mimic the body's natural electrical activity and are believed to promote various physiological processes. To date, MCS has limited use in the field of BEM with applications in several therapeutic purposes. However, recent studies provide hopeful signs that MCS is more scalable and widely applicable than what has been used so far. Therefore, this review delves into the landscape of MCS, shedding light on the multifaceted applications and untapped potential of MCS in the realm of healthcare. Particularly, we summarized the hierarchical mediation from cell to whole body responses by MCS including its physiological applications. Our final objective of this review is to contribute to the growing body of literature that unveils the captivating potential of BEM, with MCS poised at the intersection of technological innovation and the intricacies of the human body.

Three cases of hemiplegia after cervical paraspinal muscle needling

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Muscle needling therapy is common for chronic pain management, but the development of unusual complications such as hemiplegia is not well understood.

PURPOSE

We report on three cases with hemiplegia after cervical paraspinal muscle needling and propose possible explanations for these unusual complications.

STUDY DESIGN

Case report.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively reviewed the medical charts from a decade (2002-2013) at Korea University Hospital. The records were systematically searched, and the cases with hemiplegia (grade<3) after needing therapy were collected. No conflict of interest reported. No funding received.

RESULTS

A 54-year-old woman, a 38-year-old woman, and a 60-year-old man with hemiplegia by cervical subdural or epidural hematoma after cervical posterior paraspinal muscle needling without direct invasion (intramuscular stimulation, acupuncture, or intramuscular lidocaine) were observed. All patients were taken for emergent decompressive laminectomy, and their postoperative motor function improved substantially.

CONCLUSION

Spinal hematoma after muscle needling is unusual but was thought to result after a rupture of the epidural or subarachnoid veins by a sharp increase in blood pressure delivered in the intraabdominal or intrathoracic areas after needling therapy.