21 Aug Acupuncture and Electrotherapy Following Knee Replacement May Limit Opioid Use
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
Dr. Hernandez-Boussard
Tina Hernandez-Boussard, PhD MPH, MS
Associate Professor of Medicine, Biomedical Data Science, and Surgery
Stanford School of Medicine
Stanford, CA 94305-5479
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings?
Response: Opioid addiction is a national crisis. As surgery is thought to be a gateway to opioid misuse, opioid-sparing approaches for pain management following surgery are a top priority.
We conducted a meta-analysis of 39 randomized clinical trials of common non-pharmalogical interventions used for postoperative pain management.
We found that acupuncture and electrotherapy following total knee replacement reduced or delayed patients’ opioid use.
MedicalResearch.com: What should clinicians and patients take away from your report?
Response: As prescription opioid use is under national scrutiny, it is important to identify drug-free pain management therapies that may reduce opioid use and therefore help curb the national epidemic. Several non-pharmaceutical treatments and their association with postoperative pain were identified in the literature. However, in our meta-analysis we found that only acupuncture and electrotherapy following total knee replacement were associated with delayed or reduced opioid consumption.
MedicalResearch.com: What recommendations do you have for future research as a result of this study?
Response: Strong, unbiased evidence is needed to further support the results from this meta-analysis. In particular, further evidence supporting the association between acupuncture and electrotherapy and reduced or delayed opioid consumption is critical to inform appropriate postoperative pain management.
MedicalResearch.com: Thank you for your contribution to the MedicalResearch.com community.
Editor’s note:
The best recovery outcomes are achievable when holistic therapies are seamlessly integrated with evidence-based behavioral interventions. Treatment centers are increasingly designing programs that blend psychotherapy, group counseling, and medication management with modalities such as mindfulness, yoga, and acupuncture.
In a city like Seattle, Washington, home to more than 780,000 residents, people from all walks of life are facing challenges with addiction and taking necessary steps toward recovery, which is a positive step forward. Many rehabilitation centers are helping them rebuild their lives by providing structured support through counseling, therapy, and other recovery-focused approaches. For those exploring acupuncture in Seattle, know that it can be considered a complementary therapy alongside rehabilitation, with guidance from a qualified professional.
A well-rounded approach supports mind, body, and spirit, tailoring recovery to each individual’s unique needs and strengths. By offering both holistic and conventional care, rehab centers ensure that no aspect of the recovery process is overlooked, improving client satisfaction and long-term success.
Citation:
Note: Content is Not intended as medical advice. Please consult your health care provider regarding your specific medical condition and questions.
Last Updated on August 28, 2026 by Marie Benz MD FAAD