American Society of Hirudotherapy

Conditions Atlas

199 medical conditions where hirudotherapy has been applied — from FDA-cleared microsurgical flap salvage to Tier C investigational uses. Every entry tier-classified, evidence-graded, and linked to primary literature.

Last Updated: May 27, 2026Reviewed by: Andrei Dokukin, MD
Conditions registry \u2014 mixed tiersCatalog of indications

199

Total conditions

3

Tier A FDA-cleared

10

Tier B RCT-supported

186

Tier C investigational

cardiovascular

4 conditions

dermatological

41 conditions

Livedo Reticularis

C · Investigational

Investigational use for primary livedo reticularis; very limited evidence. Secondary causes (lupus, APLAS) require rheumatology referral.

Lipodermatosclerosis

C · Investigational

Investigational use for chronic lipodermatosclerosis; small case series suggest softening of fibrotic gaiter-area skin changes.

Insulin Injection Lipohypertrophy

C · Investigational

Investigational use to soften and remodel insulin injection-related lipohypertrophy nodules; very limited evidence.

Androgenic Alopecia

C · Investigational

Investigational use for androgenic alopecia; mechanism via local scalp perfusion improvement. Single-arm series only.

Rosacea (Erythematotelangiectatic)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for erythematotelangiectatic rosacea; case-series evidence for reduction in facial erythema.

Plaque Psoriasis (Localized)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for localized stable plaque psoriasis; small case series suggest plaque thinning. Not a primary treatment.

Atopic Eczema (Localized Refractory)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for localized refractory atopic dermatitis; very limited case-series evidence.

Keloid and Hypertrophic Scarring

C · Investigational

Investigational use for stable keloid and hypertrophic scars; case-series evidence for softening and flattening.

Chronic Recurrent Cellulitis

C · Investigational

Investigational use for chronic recurrent (non-acute) cellulitis with underlying lymphedema or venous insufficiency.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (Hurley Stage I-II)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunctive use for Hurley stage I-II hidradenitis suppurativa in quiescent phase between flares.

Atopic Dermatitis (Adult Recalcitrant, EASI >21)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for adult recalcitrant atopic dermatitis (EASI >21) refractory to dupilumab or JAK inhibitor; very preliminary data.

Psoriasis (Chronic Plaque, Recalcitrant)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for chronic plaque psoriasis recalcitrant to biologic therapy; very preliminary case-series evidence.

Severe Inflammatory Acne Vulgaris

C · Investigational

Highly investigational use for severe nodulocystic acne refractory to isotretinoin; very limited anecdotal evidence and significant scarring risk concerns.

Rosacea (Papulopustular Subtype)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for papulopustular rosacea subtype with persistent inflammatory lesions; small case series.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (Hurley Stage I, Localized)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for Hurley stage I localized hidradenitis suppurativa; distinct from Hurley II-III with extensive disease.

Refractory Keloid Scars (Post-Injection Failure)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for keloid scars refractory to intralesional corticosteroid; case series suggest volume reduction as adjunctive therapy.

Hypertrophic Scars

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for hypertrophic scars (within original wound boundary) distinct from keloid; case-series evidence for volume reduction.

Cutaneous Lichen Planus (Localized)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for localized cutaneous lichen planus refractory to topical corticosteroid; very limited case-report evidence.

Small Localized Subcutaneous Lipoma

C · Investigational

Highly investigational use for small subcutaneous lipoma (<3 cm) with cosmetic concern; surgical excision remains standard; very limited data.

Plantar Warts (Verruca Plantaris, Refractory)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational use for refractory plantar warts (HPV-mediated) after cryotherapy and salicylic acid failure; very limited anecdotal evidence.

Small Localized Skin Abscess (Post-Drainage)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct after surgical drainage of small localized skin abscess; not for primary undrained abscesses; small case series.

Vitiligo (Investigational)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational adjunct for limited stable vitiligo; case reports only; topical calcineurin inhibitors, narrow-band UVB, and ruxolitinib cream remain primary.

Alopecia Areata (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for stable patchy alopecia areata; case reports only; intralesional corticosteroids and JAK inhibitors (baricitinib, ritlecitinib) remain primary.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa Hurley Stage II (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct in Hurley Stage II HS refractory to conventional therapy; case reports only; biologics (adalimumab, secukinumab) and surgical management remain primary.

Melasma (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational adjunct for refractory melasma; case reports only; sun protection, hydroquinone, tretinoin, tranexamic acid, and chemical peels remain primary.

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (Investigational)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational adjunct for refractory PIH; case reports only; sun protection, topical hypopigmenting agents, and chemical peels remain primary.

Lichen Sclerosus (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational adjunct for refractory anogenital lichen sclerosus; no RCT evidence; potent topical corticosteroid (clobetasol) remains standard of care.

Granuloma Annulare (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational adjunct for localized granuloma annulare; no RCT evidence; many lesions resolve spontaneously within 1-2 years.

Localized Scleroderma / Morphea (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational adjunct for stable plaque morphea; no RCT evidence; UVA1 phototherapy and methotrexate remain primary for active disease.

Cutis Marmorata Telangiectatica Congenita (Investigational)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational; supportive care and monitoring of associated anomalies remain primary; case reports only for adjunctive use.

Chronic Radiation Dermatitis (Investigational)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational adjunct for chronic radiation dermatitis after oncology completion; case reports only; standard skin care and dermatology referral remain primary.

Nail Psoriasis (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for nail psoriasis; topical corticosteroids, intralesional steroid, and (for severe disease) systemic biologics remain evidence-based.

Prurigo Nodularis (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for refractory prurigo nodularis; potent topical/intralesional steroids, gabapentinoids, and dupilumab (FDA-approved 2022) remain evidence-based.

Chronic Pruritus of Unknown Origin (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for chronic pruritus of unknown origin after systemic workup; antihistamines, gabapentinoids, and (for select cases) systemic immunomodulators remain evidence-based.

Behcet Disease Orogenital Mucocutaneous Manifestations (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for cutaneous manifestations of Behcet disease; colchicine, apremilast, azathioprine, TNF inhibitors, and rheumatology supervision remain evidence-based.

Chronic Recurrent Chilblains (Pernio, Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for chronic recurrent chilblains; cold avoidance, smoking cessation, calcium channel blockers (nifedipine), and topical corticosteroids remain evidence-based.

Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for chronic spontaneous urticaria refractory to high-dose H1 antihistamines; omalizumab, cyclosporine, and step-up guideline-directed therapy remain evidence-based.

Recurrent Erythema Nodosum (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for recurrent idiopathic erythema nodosum; identification and treatment of underlying cause, NSAIDs, potassium iodide, and (refractory) colchicine remain evidence-based.

Hailey-Hailey Disease (Benign Familial Pemphigus, Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for refractory Hailey-Hailey disease; topical corticosteroids, topical antibiotics, topical calcineurin inhibitors, oral antibiotics, and (refractory) botulinum toxin or surgical interventions remain evidence-based.

Lichen Simplex Chronicus (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for lichen simplex chronicus; breaking the itch-scratch cycle with potent topical corticosteroids, occlusion, topical calcineurin inhibitors, and treatment of underlying pruritus etiology remain evidence-based.

Necrobiosis Lipoidica (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for stable non-ulcerated necrobiosis lipoidica; topical and intralesional corticosteroids, topical calcineurin inhibitors, glycemic optimization in diabetes, and (refractory) TNF inhibitors or fumaric acid esters remain evidence-based.

ent

17 conditions

Chronic Rhinosinusitis

B · RCT-supported

Off-label use with one RCT showing symptom and SNOT-22 score improvement at 4 weeks in non-polypoid chronic sinusitis.

Subjective Tinnitus

C · Investigational

Investigational use for chronic subjective tinnitus; case-series evidence for THI score improvement. Mechanism speculative.

Ménière's Disease (Adjunctive)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunctive use for Ménière's disease; very limited evidence. Standard management (diet, betahistine, intratympanic therapy) remains primary.

Pulsatile Tinnitus (Vascular-Origin Subtype)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for pulsatile vascular-origin tinnitus distinct from subjective tinnitus; case-report evidence only.

Meniere's Disease (Vestibular Attack Frequency)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for vestibular attack frequency reduction in definite Meniere's disease per AAO-HNS 2015 criteria; case-series evidence.

Peripheral Vertigo (BPPV-Refractory / Vestibular Neuritis Recovery)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for peripheral vertigo persisting after Epley maneuvers or during prolonged vestibular neuritis recovery; anecdotal.

Chronic Tonsillitis (Investigational Cervical Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational cervical adjunct for chronic tonsillitis; case reports only; tonsillectomy and antibiotics remain primary; cervical leech placement carries carotid-proximity risk.

Recurrent Otitis Media in Adults (Investigational)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational adjunct for adult recurrent otitis media; case reports only; antibiotics and ENT evaluation for underlying eustachian tube dysfunction remain primary.

Vasomotor Rhinitis (Investigational)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for nonallergic vasomotor rhinitis; case reports only; intranasal ipratropium and antihistamine remain primary.

Chronic Laryngitis (Investigational Cervical Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational cervical adjunct for chronic laryngitis; case reports only; ENT evaluation for underlying causes (LPR, smoking, vocal abuse) remains primary.

Chronic Glossitis (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational adjunct for chronic glossitis; case reports only; addressing underlying nutritional, infectious, or allergic causes remains primary.

Chronic Refractory Tinnitus (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for chronic refractory subjective tinnitus; cognitive behavioral therapy, sound therapy, and hearing aids for concurrent hearing loss remain evidence-based.

Chronic Otitis Externa (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for refractory chronic otitis externa; topical antimicrobials, aural toilet, and predisposing-factor management remain evidence-based.

Chronic Non-Allergic Rhinitis (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for chronic non-allergic rhinitis; intranasal corticosteroids, intranasal antihistamines, and trigger avoidance remain evidence-based.

Sicca Syndrome (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for sicca (dry eye and dry mouth) symptoms; ophthalmologic lubricants, salivary stimulants (pilocarpine, cevimeline), and rheumatology workup remain evidence-based.

Burning Mouth Syndrome (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for primary burning mouth syndrome; clonazepam (topical or systemic), alpha-lipoic acid, low-dose tricyclics, and cognitive behavioral therapy remain evidence-based.

Chronic Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for chronic Eustachian tube dysfunction; nasal corticosteroids, antihistamines for allergic etiology, Valsalva maneuvers, and (refractory) balloon Eustachian tuboplasty remain evidence-based.

gastrointestinal

10 conditions

Hemorrhoids (Grade II-III, Symptomatic)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for symptomatic relief of grade II-III internal/external hemorrhoidal disease; does not address anatomic prolapse.

External Thrombosed Hemorrhoid (Acute, <72h)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for acute external thrombosed hemorrhoids presenting within 72 hours; distinct from internal hemorrhoidal disease.

Chronic Anal Fissure (>8 Weeks)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for chronic anal fissure refractory to medical therapy; very limited case-report evidence; surgical sphincterotomy remains gold standard.

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct in NAFLD/MASLD; small case series only; weight loss, dietary modification, and resmetirom remain primary.

Hepatic Portal Congestion (Non-Cirrhotic, Investigational)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational adjunct for non-cirrhotic hepatic congestion; case reports only; cirrhosis and portal hypertension are absolute exclusions.

Chronic Pancreatitis (Investigational Pain Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational adjunct for chronic pancreatitis pain refractory to conventional therapy; case reports only; pancreatic enzyme replacement and pain medicine remain primary.

Ulcerative Proctitis (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational adjunct for distal ulcerative proctitis; case reports only; topical 5-ASA and corticosteroids remain primary.

Symptomatic Gilbert Syndrome (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for symptomatic Gilbert syndrome; reassurance, trigger avoidance (fasting, dehydration), and acknowledgment of benign genetic etiology remain primary; no FDA-approved therapy.

Functional Dyspepsia (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for functional dyspepsia (Rome IV criteria); H. pylori eradication when positive, proton pump inhibitors, prokinetics, and tricyclic antidepressants remain evidence-based.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Pain-Predominant (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for pain-predominant IBS refractory to dietary and pharmacologic therapy; low-FODMAP diet, antispasmodics, low-dose tricyclic antidepressants, and cognitive behavioral therapy or gut-directed hypnotherapy remain evidence-based.

gynecologic

12 conditions

Lactational Mastitis (Non-Suppurative)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunctive use for non-suppurative lactational mastitis; case-series evidence for resolution of induration and reduced antibiotic days.

Endometriosis-Related Pelvic Pain

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunctive use for chronic endometriosis-related pelvic pain; very limited evidence. Not a substitute for hormonal or surgical management.

Primary Dysmenorrhea

C · Investigational

Investigational use for primary dysmenorrhea refractory to NSAIDs and hormonal contraception; small case series.

Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (Non-Specific)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for non-specific chronic pelvic pain syndrome; case-series evidence for symptom reduction within multimodal management.

Premenstrual Syndrome (Investigational)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for moderate PMS refractory to conventional therapy; small case series only; SSRI and combined hormonal contraception remain primary.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct in PCOS; case reports only; lifestyle modification, combined hormonal contraception, metformin, and ovulation induction remain primary.

Vulvodynia (Investigational)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational adjunct for chronic vulvodynia refractory to conventional therapy; case reports only; pelvic floor PT, topical therapy, and TCAs remain primary.

Cyclical Mastalgia (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for severe cyclical mastalgia refractory to conventional therapy; case reports only; reassurance, lifestyle modification, and selective danazol/tamoxifen remain primary.

Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for pelvic congestion syndrome; medical therapy (progestins, GnRH analogs) and ovarian vein embolization remain evidence-based.

Cyclic Mastalgia (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for severe cyclic mastalgia; first-line care includes proper-fit support, evening primrose oil (debated), and (for severe disease) tamoxifen or danazol short-course.

Endometrioma (Palliative Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Palliative investigational adjunct for endometrioma-related chronic pelvic pain in patients declining or unable to undergo surgical/hormonal management.

Adenomyosis (Investigational Palliative Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational palliative adjunct for adenomyosis-related dysmenorrhea and pelvic pain; hormonal therapy (LNG-IUD, dienogest, GnRH antagonists) and (definitively) hysterectomy remain evidence-based.

musculoskeletal

35 conditions

Knee Osteoarthritis

B · RCT-supported

Off-label use with three RCTs showing pain and function improvement comparable to NSAID gel at 3 months in mild-to-moderate symptomatic knee OA.

Thumb Carpometacarpal (CMC-1) Osteoarthritis

B · RCT-supported

Off-label use with RCT evidence: single-session leech therapy reduces pain and improves function in CMC-1 (basal thumb) OA at 8 weeks.

Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)

B · RCT-supported

Off-label use with two RCTs showing significant pain reduction at 7-12 weeks compared to topical NSAID and conventional physiotherapy.

Plantar Fasciitis

B · RCT-supported

Off-label use with one RCT showing significant heel pain reduction at 6 weeks compared to conservative care.

Fibromyalgia

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunctive use; one small pilot suggests transient improvement in tender-point and quality-of-life scores. Not a primary treatment.

Acute Gout Flare

C · Investigational

Investigational use for acute monoarticular gout when NSAIDs and colchicine are contraindicated; small case series.

Mid-Substance Achilles Tendinopathy

C · Investigational

Investigational use for chronic mid-substance Achilles tendinopathy; case-series evidence for pain and VISA-A score improvement.

Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy

C · Investigational

Investigational use for non-surgical rotator cuff tendinopathy and chronic shoulder impingement; case-series evidence for pain reduction.

Trigger Finger (Stenosing Tenosynovitis)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for stenosing tenosynovitis of the digital flexor pulleys; small case series.

Dupuytren's Contracture (Early Stage)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for early-stage Dupuytren's nodules; case-series evidence for nodule softening, not for established contracture.

Plantar Fibromatosis (Ledderhose Disease)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for plantar fascia nodules in early Ledderhose disease; case-series evidence for symptomatic improvement.

Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct in stage II frozen shoulder; small case series suggest accelerated range-of-motion recovery as add-on to physiotherapy.

Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy

C · Investigational

Investigational use for insertional Achilles tendinopathy distinct from mid-substance disease; weaker case-series response.

De Quervain's Tenosynovitis

C · Investigational

Investigational use for stenosing tenosynovitis of the first dorsal extensor compartment; small case series.

Recurrent Trigger Finger (Post-Injection Failure)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for trigger finger recurrent after corticosteroid injection failure; pre-surgical alternative explored in case series.

Calcaneal Heel Spur (Symptomatic)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for symptomatic plantar calcaneal spur; distinguished from plantar fasciitis by radiographic spur with localized pain.

Subacromial Bursitis (Chronic)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for chronic subacromial bursitis distinct from acute infectious bursitis; case-series evidence for pain reduction.

Trochanteric Bursitis (Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for chronic greater trochanteric pain syndrome including bursitis and gluteal tendinopathy; case-series evidence.

Costochondritis (Chronic)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for chronic costochondritis with persistent chest wall pain after cardiac causes excluded; small case series.

Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction

C · Investigational

Investigational use for SI joint mechanical pain with positive provocation tests; case-series evidence for pain reduction.

Pubic Symphysis Dysfunction (Non-Pregnancy)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for non-pregnancy-related pubic symphysis dysfunction including athletic osteitis pubis; anecdotal evidence.

Coccydynia (Chronic)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for chronic coccyx pain after fall, childbirth, or idiopathic onset; small case series for refractory cases.

Piriformis Syndrome (Isolated, FAIR-Positive)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for isolated piriformis syndrome with positive FAIR test and excluded lumbar pathology; case-series evidence.

Myofascial Pain Syndrome (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for chronic myofascial trigger-point pain; small case series only; dry needling, manual therapy, and exercise remain primary.

Costochondritis and Tietze Syndrome (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for refractory costochondritis or Tietze syndrome; NSAIDs, reassurance, and physical therapy remain primary; cardiac and pulmonary causes must be excluded first.

Chronic Mid-Portion Achilles Tendinopathy (Investigational)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for chronic mid-portion (non-insertional) Achilles tendinopathy; eccentric loading remains evidence-based first-line.

Patellar Tendinopathy (Jumper's Knee, Investigational)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for chronic patellar tendinopathy (Blazina stage II-III); eccentric loading and heavy slow resistance training remain primary.

Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy (Investigational)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for chronic proximal hamstring tendinopathy at ischial origin; eccentric loading and load management remain primary.

Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (Investigational)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for chronic greater trochanteric pain syndrome (gluteal tendinopathy); load management and hip-abductor strengthening remain primary.

Ischial Bursitis (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for refractory ischial (ischiogluteal) bursitis; activity modification, hamstring loading, and selective injection remain primary.

Hip Osteoarthritis (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for symptomatic hip osteoarthritis; weight management, exercise, NSAIDs, and arthroplasty for end-stage disease remain evidence-based.

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for chronic temporomandibular joint disorder; conservative care (education, jaw exercises, occlusal splint, NSAIDs) remains first-line; specialty referral for refractory cases.

Chronic Cervical Myofascial Pain (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for chronic cervical myofascial pain; education, exercise therapy, ergonomic correction, and trigger-point therapy remain primary.

Ankylosing Spondylitis Axial Pain (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for axial pain in ankylosing spondylitis; NSAIDs, biologic DMARDs (TNF and IL-17 inhibitors), and structured exercise remain evidence-based first-line therapy.

Iliotibial Band Syndrome (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for chronic iliotibial band syndrome refractory to standard physical therapy and load-management; activity modification, eccentric hip strengthening, and corticosteroid injection remain evidence-based.

neurological

37 conditions

Cervical Radiculopathy

B · RCT-supported

Off-label use with one RCT (Michalsen 2018) showing significant pain reduction at 7 days in cervical radiculopathy without surgical indication.

Lumbar Radiculopathy (Sciatica)

B · RCT-supported

Off-label use with controlled trial evidence (n=80) showing leg pain and Oswestry score improvement at 4-12 weeks in non-surgical lumbar disc disease.

Migraine

C · Investigational

Investigational use with case-series evidence for reduction of migraine frequency and intensity; mechanism plausible via reduction of cervico-cranial venous congestion.

Tension-Type Headache

C · Investigational

Investigational use with small case series suggesting frequency reduction in chronic tension headache via reduction of pericranial muscle tension and venous congestion.

Sciatica (Non-Discogenic / Piriformis)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for non-discogenic sciatica including piriformis syndrome; case-series evidence for pain reduction.

Bell's Palsy (Acute Idiopathic Facial Paralysis)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct in acute idiopathic facial nerve palsy; case-series suggest faster House-Brackmann recovery as add-on to corticosteroids.

Trigeminal Neuralgia (Classical / Idiopathic)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for classical trigeminal neuralgia refractory to first-line carbamazepine; anecdotal pain-frequency reduction.

Lumbosacral Radiculopathy (Non-Discogenic)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for lumbosacral radicular pain without disc herniation (foraminal stenosis, facet hypertrophy, lateral recess); case-series evidence.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (Mild-Moderate)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for mild-to-moderate carpal tunnel syndrome; small RCT evidence suggests short-term symptom relief comparable to wrist splinting.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

C · Investigational

Investigational use for posterior tibial nerve entrapment at the medial ankle; very limited case-report evidence.

Chronic Migraine Prophylaxis (≥15 Headache Days/Month)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for chronic migraine (≥15 days/month, ≥8 migrainous) refractory to two preventive classes; distinct from episodic migraine.

Cluster Headache (Episodic)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational use for episodic cluster headache between attack cycles; very limited anecdotal data, not for active attacks.

Chronic Tension-Type Headache (≥15 Days/Month)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for chronic tension-type headache (≥15 days/month) with persistent pericranial muscle tenderness; small case series.

Cervicogenic Headache

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for cervicogenic headache referred from upper cervical (C1-C3) joints; case-series evidence for pain reduction.

Restless Leg Syndrome (Investigational)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for primary RLS refractory to dopamine agonists; very limited anecdotal evidence; iron status and conventional therapy should be optimized first.

Post-Stroke Hemiplegia (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct to physical/occupational therapy in chronic post-stroke hemiplegia; no RCT support; not for acute stroke care.

Multiple Sclerosis Fatigue (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for MS-related fatigue; no controlled trials; disease-modifying therapy and modafinil/amantadine remain primary.

Parkinson's Disease Rigidity (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for muscular rigidity in idiopathic Parkinson's disease; no RCT support; levodopa and physiotherapy remain primary.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome / ME (Investigational)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome; no RCT support; conventional pacing and symptom management remain primary.

Fibromyalgia (Tender Point Investigational Protocol)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct targeting ACR tender points in fibromyalgia; limited case series; FDA-approved pharmacotherapy (pregabalin, duloxetine, milnacipran) and graded exercise remain primary.

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (Type I, Investigational)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational adjunct for CRPS Type I; no RCT support; multidisciplinary pain management and physiotherapy remain primary.

Phantom Limb Pain (Investigational)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational adjunct for chronic phantom limb pain; case reports only; mirror therapy and gabapentinoids remain primary.

Spasticity Post-Spinal Cord Injury (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for muscular spasticity after SCI; no RCT support; baclofen (oral or intrathecal) and physiotherapy remain primary.

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Type I (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational adjunct for CRPS-I in patients with stable nutritional vascular status; case reports only; multidisciplinary pain management remains primary.

Vascular Cognitive Impairment (Highly Investigational)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational; no clinical evidence supports use for cognitive outcomes; vascular risk-factor management (BP, lipids, antiplatelet, lifestyle) remains primary.

Secondary Trigeminal Neuralgia (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational adjunct for secondary trigeminal neuralgia after MRI evaluation; carbamazepine and oxcarbazepine remain first-line; microvascular decompression for refractory cases.

Refractory Restless Leg Syndrome (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for refractory restless leg syndrome after iron and pharmacologic optimization; case reports only.

Vestibular Migraine (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for refractory vestibular migraine; migraine prophylaxis (propranolol, topiramate, amitriptyline) and vestibular rehabilitation remain primary.

Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (Highly Investigational)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational. Acetazolamide, weight loss, and (for vision-threatening cases) CSF shunting or optic nerve sheath fenestration remain primary; no evidence supports leech therapy for ICP.

Ramsay Hunt Syndrome (Investigational Adjunct, Convalescent Phase)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for convalescent-phase Ramsay Hunt syndrome residual facial weakness; antiviral plus corticosteroid started within 72 hours of onset remains evidence-based.

Post-Herpetic Neuralgia (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for chronic post-herpetic neuralgia; gabapentinoids, tricyclics, and topical lidocaine/capsaicin remain evidence-based; herpes zoster vaccine prevents new cases.

Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for symptomatic diabetic peripheral neuropathy; glycemic control, foot care, and pharmacotherapy (duloxetine, pregabalin, gabapentin) remain evidence-based.

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for mild cubital tunnel syndrome; elbow extension splinting and ergonomic modification remain first-line; surgical decompression for moderate-severe cases.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome; postural correction and scalene rehabilitation remain first-line; surgical decompression for refractory or vascular subtypes.

Meralgia Paresthetica (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for meralgia paresthetica; weight loss, loosening of constrictive clothing, and selective nerve block remain first-line.

Medication-Overuse Headache (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct during withdrawal phase of medication-overuse headache; supervised medication discontinuation and preventive therapy initiation remain the foundation.

Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy Pain (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for paraspinal pain in mild cervical spondylotic myelopathy; surgical decompression remains evidence-based when myelopathic signs progress; conservative management for mild non-progressive disease.

ophthalmologic

3 conditions

other

7 conditions

Metabolic Syndrome (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct to lifestyle modification in metabolic syndrome; small case series only; weight loss, dietary modification, and pharmacotherapy remain primary.

Hashimoto's Thyroiditis (Investigational Cervical Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational adjunct in stable Hashimoto's thyroiditis; case reports only; levothyroxine replacement remains primary.

Myalgic Encephalomyelitis / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for ME/CFS symptom management; pacing strategies, post-exertional malaise avoidance, and individualized supportive care remain primary; graded exercise therapy is no longer recommended per updated NICE guidance.

Stage III Postsurgical Lymphedema (Highly Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational adjunct for advanced postsurgical lymphedema; complete decongestive therapy and (selectively) surgical options (LVA, VLNT) remain evidence-based.

Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for severe recurrent aphthous stomatitis; topical corticosteroids, chlorhexidine, and (for severe disease) colchicine or systemic immunomodulators remain evidence-based.

Chronic Postsurgical Pain Syndrome (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for chronic postsurgical pain after surgical site healed; multimodal pain management including pharmacotherapy, physical therapy, and (for neuropathic features) interventional pain procedures remain evidence-based.

Dercum Disease (Adiposis Dolorosa, Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for painful lipomatous nodules in Dercum disease; analgesics, weight management, surgical excision of selected painful nodules, and lidocaine infusion remain investigational themselves; no FDA-approved disease-modifying therapy.

surgical reconstruction

3 conditions

urogenital

11 conditions

Peyronie's Disease (Stable Phase)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for stable-phase Peyronie's disease; case-report-level evidence only. Standard treatments (verapamil, collagenase, surgery) remain first-line.

Chronic Prostatitis / Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CP/CPPS)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for category III CP/CPPS; small case series suggest symptom reduction. Multimodal therapy remains standard.

Chronic Prostatitis / Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (Extended Protocol)

C · Investigational

Investigational extended-protocol adjunct for NIH Category III chronic prostatitis/CPPS; small case series only; UPOINT-directed therapy remains primary.

Interstitial Cystitis / Bladder Pain Syndrome (Investigational)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational adjunct for IC/BPS refractory to conventional therapy; case reports only; AUA-guideline stepwise therapy remains primary.

Peyronie's Disease (Extended Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational extended-protocol adjunct for stable Peyronie's disease; case reports only; collagenase clostridium histolyticum and surgical correction remain primary.

Varicocele (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational adjunct in symptomatic varicocele; case reports only; embolization or surgical ligation remain primary for fertility or pain indications.

Chronic Epididymitis (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for chronic epididymitis after infection ruled out; NSAIDs, scrotal support, and selective surgery (epididymectomy) for refractory cases.

Chronic Orchialgia (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for chronic orchialgia (testicular pain) after workup; pharmacotherapy, pelvic-floor physical therapy, and (selectively) microsurgical denervation of the spermatic cord remain evidence-based.

Prostatic Calculi (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for symptomatic prostatic calculi associated with chronic prostatitis; targeted antibiotics, alpha blockers, and selective transurethral resection remain evidence-based.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia; alpha-blockers, 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors, and minimally invasive surgical therapy remain evidence-based.

Chronic Pelvic Floor Myalgia (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for chronic pelvic floor myalgia; pelvic-floor physical therapy is first-line; biofeedback, trigger-point injection, and (for selected refractory cases) onabotulinumtoxinA remain evidence-based.

vascular

19 conditions

Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CEAP C3-C5)

B · RCT-supported

Off-label use with controlled trial evidence for symptomatic improvement in venous claudication, leg heaviness, and edema in CEAP C3-C5 stages.

Venous Leg Ulcer

B · RCT-supported

Off-label adjunct to compression therapy with case-series evidence for accelerated healing in compression-resistant venous ulcers.

Post-Thrombotic Syndrome

B · RCT-supported

Off-label use with case-series evidence for symptomatic relief of leg pain, heaviness, and ulceration in PTS following deep vein thrombosis.

Varicose Veins (Symptomatic Tributaries)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for symptomatic relief of varicose tributary discomfort and inflammation; does not eliminate underlying venous reflux.

Raynaud's Syndrome (Primary)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for primary Raynaud's phenomenon; mechanism via local vasodilation and rheologic improvement. No RCT evidence.

Primary or Secondary Lymphedema

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunctive use; case-series evidence for limb-volume reduction when combined with complete decongestive therapy.

Post-Mastectomy Lymphedema

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunctive use following breast cancer treatment with axillary node dissection; case-series evidence for arm volume reduction.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (Post-Acute Phase Symptoms)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for residual symptoms in the post-acute phase of DVT (>6 weeks); contraindicated in acute DVT.

Primary Lymphedema (Stage I-II)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct specifically for primary congenital/idiopathic lymphedema in stage I-II; distinct from secondary or advanced disease.

Post-Mastectomy Lymphedema (Survivorship Phase ≥2 Years)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for post-mastectomy lymphedema in late survivorship phase (≥2 years post-treatment); distinct from early post-treatment period.

Superficial Thrombophlebitis (Saphenous Tributary)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for superficial thrombophlebitis of saphenous tributaries distinct from DVT; case-series evidence for pain and inflammation reduction.

Livedo Reticularis (Primary, Investigational)

C · Investigational

Investigational use for primary livedo reticularis; must exclude secondary causes (APS, cholesterol emboli, vasculitis) first.

Erythromelalgia (Investigational)

C · Investigational

Highly investigational use for primary or secondary erythromelalgia (red, hot, painful extremities); very limited anecdotal evidence.

Type 2 Diabetes Microvascular Complications (Investigational)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for early microvascular complications of type 2 diabetes; case series only; glycemic control and standard pharmacotherapy remain primary.

Buerger's Disease / Thromboangiitis Obliterans (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for Buerger's disease; absolute tobacco cessation is the only disease-modifying intervention; iloprost and surgical sympathectomy for selected cases.

Asymptomatic Mild-to-Moderate Carotid Stenosis (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for asymptomatic mild-to-moderate carotid stenosis; risk-factor management (statin, antiplatelet, blood pressure, smoking cessation, glycemic control) remains evidence-based; symptomatic or high-grade disease requires vascular surgery referral.

Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for vascular and neurosensory components of hand-arm vibration syndrome; cessation of vibration exposure, smoking cessation, calcium channel blockers for vascular component, and gabapentinoids for neurosensory pain remain evidence-based.

Early-Stage Lipedema (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for stage 1 lipedema; conservative complete decongestive therapy, daily compression garments, weight management, and (selected stage 2-3) tumescent liposuction remain primary management.

Livedoid Vasculopathy (Investigational Adjunct)

C · Investigational

Investigational adjunct for livedoid vasculopathy; rheumatology referral, antiplatelet therapy, anticoagulation, hyperbaric oxygen, intravenous immunoglobulin, and rivaroxaban (off-label) remain evidence-based; thrombotic disease workup is essential.

This website provides educational information and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Medicinal leech therapy carries clinically meaningful risks and should be performed only by qualified clinicians under institutionally approved protocols. FDA 510(k) clearance for medicinal leeches is limited to specific indications; investigational and off-label discussions are labeled accordingly. For patient-specific guidance, consult a qualified healthcare provider.