Exploring Gua Sha Therapy for Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy: A Single Case Report and Critical Analysis

Area of Science:

• Integrative oncology
• Neurology
• Complementary and alternative medicine

Background:

• Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a common and debilitating side effect of cancer treatment.
• Current treatment options for CIPN are limited, necessitating exploration of novel interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• This case study investigates the efficacy of gua sha as a potential intervention for managing CIPN.
• To document the impact of gua sha on a patient experiencing chemotherapy-related nerve damage.

Main Methods:

• A 38-year-old female patient underwent weekly 1-hour gua sha sessions for 10 weeks.
• Patient-reported outcomes were assessed using the FACT/GOG-NTX subscale.
• Objective measurements of limb numbness and tingling were recorded pre- and post-intervention, with extended follow-up.

Main Results:

• The patient's FACT/GOG-NTX subscale score improved significantly, increasing from 13 to 36, exceeding the minimum clinically important difference.
• Gua sha intervention led to a reduction in the extent of limb numbness and tingling.
• Symptom improvement remained stable at 18 months post-intervention, indicating sustained benefit.

Conclusions:

• Gua sha demonstrated a positive clinical effect in alleviating symptoms of CIPN in this patient.
• This case suggests gua sha may be a viable complementary therapy for managing chemotherapy-induced nerve damage.
• Further research is warranted to explore gua sha's therapeutic potential in larger patient cohorts.