Comparative effectiveness of two methods of applying essential oils in complex rehabilitation of patients with lumbosacral dorsopathies

Objective. To compare the effectiveness of two methods of local application of essential oils in complex rehabilitation programs for patients with lumbosacral dorsopathies. Materials and methods. The study involved 90 patients with lumbosacral dorsopathies who were divided into 3 groups: Group 1 (n=30; comparison group) – patients were given segmental massage with a 1% blend of oils (rosemary, cajaput and pearlberry diluted in 100 ml of base oil) recommended for dorsopathies; Group 2 (n=30; main) – patients were given biopuncture with this blend of oils; Group 3 (n=30; control) – patients were given biopuncture with sesame oil as a placebo. All patients also received standard therapy. Results. Local application of essential oils to reflexogenic points in the main group was shown to reduce pain syndrome, improve the amplitude of movement in the lumbar spine, reduce anxiety, and increase tolerance to psychological stress in comparison with the segmental massage group (comparison group) and the control group.