Journal Of Vocational Health Studies
Vol. 9 No. 3 (2026): March 2026 | JOURNAL OF VOCATIONAL HEALTH STUDIES

THE ROLE OF ACUPUNCTURE IN A SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS PATIENT: A CASE STUDY

Mayang Wulandari (Acupuncture Study Program, Faculty of Science and Technology, RS dr. Soepraoen Institute of Science and Health Technology, Malang)
Amal Prihatono (Acupuncture Study Program, Faculty of Science and Technology, RS dr. Soepraoen Institute of Science and Health Technology, Malang)



Article Info

Publish Date
02 Mar 2026

Abstract

Background: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease commonly characterized by symptoms such as frequent headaches, joint pain, and occasional body swelling. Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine therapy, has been identified as a possible alternative for managing symptoms in SLE patients, especially for those seeking relief from the side effects of conventional treatments. Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture, a minimally invasive therapy, in addressing chronic and complex complaints in a SLE patient. Case analysis: A case study was conducted on a 23-year-old woman diagnosed with SLE presenting complaints of frequent headaches, joint pain, and occasional body swelling. Data were collected through observation, hearing (auscultation)/smelling (olfaction) assessment, interview, and palpation. The patient underwent 12 acupuncture sessions with assessments conducted before and after therapy, including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) examination, abdominal ultrasound, chest X-ray, and laboratory tests. Result: Following acupuncture therapy, the patient’s headaches were resolved, joint pain diminished, and swelling subsided. Conclusion: Acupuncture can be an effective supportive therapy and a safe option for reducing various symptoms in SLE patients.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

JVHS

Publisher

Subject

Health Professions

Description

Journal Of Vocational Health Studies (J.Voc.HS), with registered number ISSN 2580-7161 (Print) and ISSN 2580-717X (Online), is a scientific journal published by Department Of Health, Faculty of Vocational Education, Universitas Airlangga. Journal of Vocational Health Studies publishes scientific ...