The Clinical Effect of Combined Needle-Embedding Therapy for Patients with Lifestyle-Related Dry Eye Disease

Dry eye disease (DED) is a multifactorial, chronic ocular surface disorder with a rising global prevalence. It has become an important public health concern that requires appropriate management and prevention. However, standardized and effective treatments for DED remain limited. This study introduces a combined approach using needle-embedding therapy and conventional nursing care as a novel intervention for patients with DED. Patients received traditional treatments, including warm compresses, eyelid massage, and artificial tear therapy, followed by the insertion of disposable sterile thumbtack needles into six predefined acupoints. Each needle was left in place for 24 h before removal. Tear meniscus height and tear film breakup time were recorded in real time during treatment. This article describes the standard operating procedure and clinical outcomes of the combined needle-embedding therapy in patients with lifestyle-related DED, aiming to evaluate its feasibility and therapeutic efficacy. According to the statistical results, this combined therapy alleviated DED symptoms, promoted ocular surface recovery, and enhanced patient comfort and quality of life.