Browsing by Author "Arundhati Goley"

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    Effects of auricular acupuncture at TF-7, AT-7, & CW-7 points on pain, functional capacity and quality of life among female medical students with primary dysmenorrhea - A randomised control trial
    (S-VYASA, 2026-05-15) M. Subprajha; Arundhati Goley
    Background: Primary dysmenorrhea is a common condition among young women, characterized by painful menstrual cramps due to increased prostaglandin activity, often affecting daily functioning and quality of life. Although conventional treatments like NSAIDs and hormonal therapy are commonly used, they may have limitations or side effects. Auricular acupuncture, a non-pharmacological approach targeting specific ear points such as TF-7, AT-7, and CW-7, has shown potential in pain relief and symptom management. However, evidence from well-designed randomized controlled trials in specific populations like female medical students is limited, warranting further investigation. Aim: The study aims to determine the effect of auricular acupuncture at (Kidney, Uterus, and Ovary) on their pain, functional capacity, and quality of life among medical students with primarydysmenorrhea. Methods: A total of 52 participants were recruited for the study and divided into 2 groups: 26 participants in the experimental group and the remaining 26 participants in the control group. Informed consent were obtained from subjects before the start of the intervention. The participants in the experimental group received auricular acupuncture for the first 1- 5 days of their menstrual cycle on three specific points, including the kidney, uterus, and ovary, using a press needle for 3 months. In contrast, participants in the control group received sham acupuncture for 3 months- only the adhesive tapes were placed in the same points for the first 1-5 days of their menstrual cycle. Assessment: A total of 3 questionnaires were used. They are – The WaLIDD score, a combination of manifestations, subjective (intensity, work ability), and objective (days of pain, location) measures. Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ) to evaluate physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms associated with the menstrual cycle. SF-36 Questionnaire to evaluate a person’s quality of life (QoL), including emotional, social, and psychological well-being. Results: In the experimental group, there was a statistically significant improvement in most of the assessed variables following the intervention. For symptom-related outcomes, the p-values were < 0.05, indicating significant differences between pre- and post-intervention scores. In the control group, most variables did not show statistically significant changes (p > 0.05), indicating minimal improvement without intervention. The between-group results showed that the experimental group had significantly better outcomes than the control group. Conclusion: The findings suggest that the intervention was effective in significantly reducing pain intensity, duration, and associated symptoms, as well as improving quality of life in the experimental group. Keywords: Pain, intensity, quality of life, Auricular acupuncture, Kidney, Uterus, Ovary.