Combined Therapy of Pulsed Electromagnetic Therapy and Acupuncture for Delayed Union of 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Metatarsal Shaft Non-Displaced Fracture: A Case Report

Abstract

Delayed union is observed when bone fails to heal within eight weeks. Magnetic therapy and acupuncture are frequently used to enhance the healing of the fracture. However, to date, no study has employed a combination of the two to treat delayed union. The aim of the present study is to report the case of a 30-year-old male who was diagnosed with the delayed union of 2nd, 3rd, and 4th metatarsal fractures via X-ray. He was treated with a combination of magnetic therapy and acupuncture. The outcome was a significant reduction in foot pain with an improvement in his daily activities. X-ray demonstrated full union of the fracture sites. Thus, these findings indicate clinical benefits of the combination of magnetic therapy and acupuncture in a patient with delayed union of metatarsal fractures. However, a larger study with a control group is required to substantiate the claim.

Keywords

• acupuncture
• bone fracture
• electrotherapy
• physiotherapy