Effect of Xuehai Acupoint (SP10) Herbal Application on Swelling and Analgesia in Ankle Fracture Patients A Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective ​ To evaluate the clinical efficacy of herbal patch application at Xuehai acupoint (SP10) in reducing perioperative swelling and alleviating pain in patients undergoing ankle fracture surgery. ​ Methods ​ This randomized controlled trial enrolled 80 patients with ankle fractures admitted to the Department of Orthopedic Trauma at Dalian University Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital between July 2020 and September 2022. Participants were randomly divided into control (n=40) and intervention (n=40)groups. The control group received standard interventions, including intermittent cold therapy, limb elevation, and functional exercises. The intervention group received additional treatment with a customized traditional chinese herbal patch applied to SP10 ,which containing Spatholobus stem (Jixueteng), Atractylodes rhizome (Cangzhu), Chuanxiong rhizome (Chuanxiong), and Corydalis tuber (Yanhusuo) . Outcomes including edema severity, NRS pain scores, ankle function (AOFAS score), and rescue NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) usage were assessed at postoperative days 1, 3, and 5. ​ Results ​ The intervention group demonstrated significantly reduced swelling (p<0.05) and lower pain scores (p<0.05) compared to the control group. Edema volume decreased from 4.68±0.66 cm (baseline) to 0.72±0.29 cm (day 5) in the herbal patch group versus 4.80±0.60 cm to 1.37±0.44 cm in controls, with faster edema resolution (80.23±6.33 vs. 96.63±4.78 hours, p<0.001). NRS pain scores improved markedly in the intervention group (day 5: 1.13±1.13 vs. 2.64±1.03, p<0.001). Both groups showed significant 8-week AOFAS score improvements (intervention: 79.96±6.34 vs. control: 76.83±6.51, p>0.05). No significant differences emerged in rescue NSAID usage (p>0.05), and both protocols were well-tolerated without severe adverse events. ​ Conclusion ​ Herbal patch therapy at Xuehai acupoint (SP10) effectively mitigates post-fracture edema and pain, likely through its meridian-activating and stasis-resolving properties. This non-invasive approach, avoiding direct application to the injured site, offers a safe and practical adjunct to conventional perioperative care. While promising, this pilot study warrants validation through larger-scale trials with extended follow-up periods to confirm long-term benefits.