| Abstrakt: |
AbstractBackground:Fecal incontinence is a recognized manifestation of the many neurologic impairments associated with multiple sclerosis (MS). This case report examines fecal incontinence in a patient with MS seeking dry needling (or trigger point acupuncture) treatment.Case:A patient with well-controlled MS presented for treatment of a painful musculoskeletal condition using acupuncture and trigger-point dry needling to the lumbar, gluteal, and cervical myofascial trigger points. Fecal incontinence and symptoms of “cotton wool” legs occurred 10 minutes after the dry-needling session; the patient subsequently experienced “heavy legs” from the knees down bilaterally, necessitating a short course of prednisone to settle symptoms. Reports in MS patients linked with fecal incontinence and acupuncture are reviewed.Results:The possible role of dry needling in altering inflammatory neuropeptide levels, autonomic homeostasis, and synchronous neural control of the pelvic floor, thereby compounding the existing state of MS function, is considered.Conclusion:Patients with MS, particularly those with a history of fecal incontinence, should be informed of the possible exacerbation of symptoms when considering the option of dry-needling therapy. |
