Acupuncture for pediatric patients with cardiogenic stroke sequelae: A CARE-compliant case report

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Traditional Chinese Medicine
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Pediatric strokes often stem from cardiac issues, necessitating prompt intervention for neurological recovery and improved quality of life.
• Current literature lacks reports on acupuncture for pediatric stroke treatment.
• This case involves a pediatric patient in the poststroke phase of a cardiogenic stroke, presenting with specific physical impairments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report on the use of acupuncture for treating a pediatric patient with sequelae of cardiogenic stroke.
• To explore the potential efficacy of Traditional Chinese Medicine in managing poststroke conditions in children.

Main Methods:

• A 4-year-old female patient diagnosed with late-stage pediatric cardiogenic stroke was treated.
• Diagnosis was confirmed via physical examination, imaging, and medical history.
• Treatment involved acupuncture using Jiaji acupoints with the Panlong needling technique and modified "Xingnao Kaiqiao" therapy, consistent with Traditional Chinese Medicine diagnosis of stroke due to phlegm and blood stasis.

Main Results:

• The patient experienced significant improvements in impaired right limb movement and right-hand function after 5 months of acupuncture treatment.
• Clinical symptoms such as head bobbing and apraxia showed marked recovery.

Conclusions:

• Acupuncture therapy, specifically the "Xingnao Kaiqiao" method, may be an effective treatment for poststroke sequelae in pediatric patients.
• This case suggests acupuncture as a potential therapeutic option for children recovering from stroke.