Homoeopathic individualized LM-potencies versus Centesimal potencies for pain management of cervical spondylosis: A multicenter prospective randomized exploratory clinical study

Abstract

Objective: Primary objective was to assess the feasibility for a further definite study to compare the effectiveness of LM–vs-CM homoeopathic potencies in reducing pain due to cervical spondylosis. Method: A multi center prospective randomized clinical pilot study was conducted by Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy at its three centers during June 2009 - June 2010. Out of 148 patients screened, 56 patients were enrolled and randomized as per the pre-set inclusion criteria. However 54 patients, LM group (n=28) and CM group (n=26) were analyzed. Pain was assessed using visual analog scale. The primary end point for pain from 1 to 60 days was calculated using Area under the curve method. Secondary outcome was to assess the quality of life using WHO QoL Bref questionnaire. Medicines were prescribed to the enrolled patients on the basis of their totality of symptoms and according to principles of homeopathy. Results: AUC for pain was significantly less in the LM group [Median (IQR): 112 (86 to 299); p= 0.007] after the prescription of homeopathic medicines. Overall quality of life of the patients after homeopathic medication showed significant improvement in the WHO-BREF domains: Physical, psychological, and Environmental only. Conclusion: Homeopathic medicines in LM potencies are better than CM potencies for pain management of cervical spondylosis. Further blinded RCT can be conducted for validation of the results.