Acupuncture for Chronic Pain Management in Haemophilic Arthropathy: A Systematic Review

Introduction

Haemophilia is a severe hereditary bleeding disorder affecting ∼1 in 5000 males, caused by deficiencies in coagulation factors VIII or IX. Chronic pain from haemophilic arthropathy (HA), especially in target joints, reduces quality of life (HRQOL), range of motion (ROM) and daily function. While conventional treatment includes replacement therapy and rehabilitation, acupuncture has emerged as a complementary approach with potential pain-relief benefits and fewer side effects.

Aim

To evaluate the effectiveness of acupuncture in reducing chronic pain and improving function and quality of life in people with haemophilia (PWH).

Materials and Methods

This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines (PROSPERO: CRD42024567714). Databases searched: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science. PICO framework: (P) haemophilic patients, (I) acupuncture, (O) pain management. Studies on other coagulation disorders or non-acupuncture therapies were excluded. Methodological quality was assessed using the JBI score.

Results

Of 514 records (464 PubMed, 40 Scopus, 10 Web of Science), 26 duplicates were removed, and 350 titles were screened. Seven met the inclusion criteria; after quality assessment and availability check, four studies were included. A total of 37 patients (mean age 41.4 years) reported meaningful pain reduction (VAS), reduced analgesic use and improved HRQOL. No significant bleeding events were reported.

Conclusion

Acupuncture may provide effective pain relief for haemophilic arthropathy with minimal side effects. However, larger, high-quality studies are needed to confirm its clinical benefits.