Acupuncture for Post-Operative Pain Relief and Functional Improvement in Tibial Fracture: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background/Objectives: Acupuncture has been used to manage various fractures. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of acupuncture in reducing post-operative pain and improving function after tibial fracture surgery. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted to evaluate acupuncture as an intervention for tibial fractures. Eight databases were searched, covering studies from inception to August 2024. Results: Sixteen RCTs with 1315 patients were analyzed. Acupuncture, when combined with conventional rehabilitation (CR) or medication, significantly improved pain (MD −1.03, 95% CI [−1.44, −0.62]), Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) score (MD 13.21, 95% CI [9.16, 17.26]), and range of motion (ROM) of knee joint (SMD 1.80, 95% CI [0.32, 3.28]) compared to CR or medication alone. It showed significant effects on effective rate (OR 4.92, 95% CI [2.79, 8.68]; I² = 0%) and showed a lower incidence of complications (OR 0.13, 95% CI [0.06, 0.26]). Conclusions: Acupuncture combined with CR or medication during the rehabilitation period after tibial fracture surgery can reduce pain, improve knee joint function, increase knee ROM, and decrease post-operative complications, compared to CR or medication alone.