Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Auricular Acupuncture in Improving Dry Eye Symptoms in University Students

Auricular acupuncture is administered in each side of the ear for 4 weeks using patches, each possessing a square shape with a side length of 10 mm, coupled with a sterilized needle measuring 0.25 x 1.3 mm. Five acupoints are selected on one ear, including the will be performed at Shenmen (TF4), Mu 1 (TG2b), Mu 2 (AT1b), Kidney (CO10), and Liver (CO12). These acupoints are believed to be effective in relieving dry eye symptoms. The patch will be kept on the auricle for 5 days and be replaced 5 times during the experimental period.

Sham auricular acupuncture is administered in each side of the ear for 4 weeks using patches, each possessing a square shape with a side length of 10 mm, without a needle. Five acupoints are selected on one ear, including the will be performed at Shenmen (TF4), Mu 1 (TG2b), Mu 2 (AT1b), Kidney (CO10), and Liver (CO12). These acupoints are believed to be effective in relieving dry eye symptoms. The patch will be kept on the auricle for 5 days and be replaced 5 times during the experimental period.

Artificial tear drops were applied 5-6 times per day over the 4-week period