Case report：Acupuncture for male dysfunction

Patient Information A 55-year-old male patient presented with a chief complaint of erectile dysfunction lasting for two years, accompanied by symptoms such as weakness in the lower back and knees, and cold hands and feet. He reported experiencing vivid dreams and night sweats after falling asleep, along with fatigue, daytime drowsiness, and noticeable memory loss. The patient also mentioned that around the age of 50, he had episodes of increased libido but has had no morning erections in the past six months, which has caused him considerable distress.

Tongue and Pulse Diagnosis The patient’s tongue appeared pale with a thin white coating, indicating Qi deficiency, while his pulse was weak and deep, suggesting underlying kidney deficiency.

Traditional Chinese Medicine Diagnosis Based on the patient's presentation, he was diagnosed with Kidney Yin and Yang Deficiency. Symptoms like lower back and knee weakness, cold extremities, night sweats, and vivid dreams indicated Yin Deficiency, while erectile dysfunction and reduced sexual function were associated with Yang Deficiency. The combined deficiency affected both his physiological and psychological well-being.

Treatment Plan An acupuncture treatment plan was devised to tonify kidney energy, harmonize Yin and Yang, and improve circulation. Key acupoints included Zhongwan, Xiawan, Qihai, Guanyuan, Zusanli, Taixi, Sanyinjiao, Mingmen, and Shenshu, selected to nourish Kidney Qi and promote balance. Treatment was administered twice a week, and the patient was advised to avoid sexual activity, even if morning erections returned, to maintain stable therapeutic effects.

Treatment Progress After two weeks, the patient reported the return of morning erections and improved mental clarity. The treatment frequency was subsequently adjusted to once per week, with additional acupoints Shenmen, Shenting, and Yongquan included to calm the spirit and further enhance sleep quality by addressing night sweats and dream disturbances.

Outcome After six weeks, the patient experienced significant improvement in erectile function, with morning erections returning daily and with firmness comparable to his experience at age 50. His lower back and knee weakness and cold extremities resolved, and his memory and energy levels also improved. Regular sexual activity was recommended, limited to once every two weeks to avoid physical exhaustion. Follow-up showed the patient was highly satisfied, with no recurrence of erectile dysfunction or back and knee weakness.