American Society of Hirudotherapy

Beneficial effects of hirudotherapy in a chronic case of complex regional pain syndrome

Research article published in Journal of integrative medicine (2019)

Last Updated: June 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Evidence: Case reportClinical TrialsKulbida R, Mathes A, Loeser J · Journal of integrative medicine, 2019

Abstract

We report about hirudotherapy in a patient with chronic complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) in the right hand. CRPS is a multifactorial disease associated with disabling pain as well as sensory and motor deficits. The optimal therapeutic management is based on personalized multimodal treatment approaches; however, hirudotherapy has not been described in the available literature. To date, we have completed five medicinal leech treatments. Altogether, hirudotherapy led to rapid and substantial relief of symptoms, especially with respect to pain intensity ratings and skin temperature asymmetries. In addition, the patient's active and passive agility of the affected limb improved obviously.

Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.

Publication typeCase ReportsJournal Article
Indexed MeSH termsComplex Regional Pain SyndromesHandHumansLeechingMaleMiddle AgedPain MeasurementSkin Temperature

Summary

We report about hirudotherapy in a patient with chronic complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) in the right hand. CRPS is a multifactorial disease associated with disabling pain as well as sensory and motor deficits.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

This case report documents the use of hirudotherapy in a patient with chronic complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) of the right hand, a condition for which the authors note hirudotherapy has not previously been described in the available literature. Across five medicinal leech treatments, the authors report rapid and substantial symptom relief, specifically reductions in pain intensity ratings and skin temperature asymmetries, along with improved active and passive agility of the affected limb. This report is directly relevant to hirudotherapy as a clinical account of leech therapy applied to a chronic pain syndrome not previously associated with this treatment modality. However, as a single case report, these observations reflect one individual's clinical course and cannot establish the efficacy of hirudotherapy for CRPS or be generalized to other patients.

Citation

Beneficial effects of hirudotherapy in a chronic case of complex regional pain syndrome.

Kulbida R, Mathes A, Loeser J · Journal of integrative medicine, 2019

DOI

Added to ASH library: March 18, 2026 · Site last updated: June 18, 2026

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.