Dec 5, 2024 6:45:00 PM | herbal medicine Potential of Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine for Burning Mouth Syndrome

This case study was published in Convergent Points: An East-West Case Report Journal in Fall 2024. Reprinted with permission.

Reviewed by Alison Loercher, DAOM, L.Ac

ACHS is proud to share a recent achievement of Assistant Professor Alison Loercher, DAOM, L.Ac, whose case report exploring the treatment of  Burning Mouth Syndrome with acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine was published in Convergent Points Journal in October 2024.

Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a perplexing chronic condition that affects the mouth, characterized by a persistent burning pain on the tongue, gums, and inside of the cheeks. Most commonly seen in postmenopausal women, BMS can significantly impact quality of life and is notoriously difficult to treat due to its unclear etiology. Current biomedical treatments often fall short or come with undesirable side effects. Dr. Loercher, DAOM, L.Ac, sheds light on an alternative treatment approach in her case study.

A Glimpse into the Case Study

Dr. Loercher’s case study centers on a 61-year-old female patient who had been suffering from BMS for over two years. Her pain would start shortly after eating and intensify throughout the day, with acidic foods exacerbating her symptoms the most. Previous treatments had not provided substantial relief. The patient also dealt with additional health issues, including allergic rhinitis, osteoarthritis, insomnia, and depression.

The Holistic Treatment Plan

To address the patient's chronic pain, Dr. Loercher implemented a treatment plan combining acupuncture with Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine (CHM). The patient received five acupuncture sessions, with needles applied to specific points known to alleviate oral discomfort and improve energy flow. Alongside acupuncture, a regimen of CHM tailored to target her symptoms and underlying conditions was prescribed. This combined approach continued over four months, allowing for cumulative benefits to manifest.

Promising Outcomes

The results were notable. The patient reported a progressive reduction in pain during the course of treatment, and by the end of the four-month period, her BMS symptoms were entirely resolved. This significant outcome suggests that acupuncture and CHM can be effective, minimally invasive alternatives for individuals with BMS, especially for those who have not found relief through conventional methods.

Supporting Research and Insights

Dr. Loercher’s findings are reinforced by existing literature highlighting acupuncture’s efficacy in pain management. Previous studies have shown that acupuncture can yield pain relief comparable to that of clonazepam without the sedative side effects. 

The case study adds to a growing body of evidence advocating for the inclusion of acupuncture and CHM in BMS treatment protocols. While more comprehensive, controlled trials are needed, Dr. Loercher’s work underscores the promise of integrative therapies for conditions that have historically resisted standard treatments.

Read the full case report to learn more: https://www.convergentpoints.com/article/view/44/121

ACHS congratulates Dr. Loercher on this groundbreaking study!

This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be medical advice. It is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, or prevent disease. This article has not been reviewed by the FDA. Always consult with your primary care physician or naturopathic doctor before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine.