1
|
Hua K, Usichenko T, Cummings M, Bernatik M, Willich SN, Brinkhaus B, Dietzel J. Effects of auricular stimulation on weight- and obesity-related parameters: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1393826. [PMID: 39165337 PMCID: PMC11333859 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1393826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Over the last three decades, the number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) using stimulation of auricular vagal sensory nerves by means of electrical stimulation, auricular acupuncture, or acupressure to support weight loss has increased markedly. This systematic review focuses on the effects of auricular stimulation (AS) on anthropometric parameters and obesity-related blood chemistry. Methods and analysis The following databases were searched until November 2021: MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), ISI Web of Science, and Scopus Database. Data collection and analysis were conducted by two reviewers independently. Quality and risk assessment of included studies was performed using the risk of bias tool of the Cochrane Handbook, and the meta-analysis of the effect of the most frequently assessed biomarkers was conducted using the statistical software RevMan. Results The full texts of 1,274 studies were screened; 22 contained data on obesity-related outcomes, and 15 trials with 1,333 patients were included in the meta-analysis. The overall quality of the included trials was moderate. AS significantly reduced body mass index (BMI) (mean difference (MD) = -0.38 BMI points, 95% CI (-0.55 to -0.22), p < 0.0001), weight (MD = -0.66 kg, 95% CI (-1.12 to -0.20), p = 0.005), waist circumference (MD = -1.44 cm, 95% CI (-2.69 to -0.20), p = 0.02), leptin, insulin, and HOMA insulin resistance compared to controls. No significant reduction was found in body fat, hip circumference, ratio of waist/hip circumference, cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides, adiponectin, ghrelin, and glucose levels. The AS was safe throughout the trials, with only minor adverse reactions. Conclusion The study results suggest that a reduction of weight and BMI can be achieved by AS in obese patients; however, the size of the effect does not appear to be of clinical relevance. The effects might be underestimated due to active sham trials. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021231885.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Hua
- Institute for Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité - University Medicine, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Taras Usichenko
- Department for Anaesthesiology, University Hospital Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
- Department of Anesthesia, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Mike Cummings
- British Medical Acupuncture Society, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Stefan N. Willich
- Institute for Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité - University Medicine, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Benno Brinkhaus
- Institute for Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité - University Medicine, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Joanna Dietzel
- Institute for Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité - University Medicine, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Chang H, Shi B, Ge H, Liu C, Wang L, Ma C, Liu L, Zhang W, Zhang D, Wang Y, Wang CC, Wu X. Acupuncture improves the emotion domain and lipid profiles in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome: a secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1237260. [PMID: 37711905 PMCID: PMC10497754 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1237260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aims to evaluate the effect of acupuncture on the emotion domain and metabolic parameters of Chinese women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) by secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial, conducted from 6 July 2012 to 7 October 2015. Method In this study, we investigated the effects of acupuncture (458 patients) and sham acupuncture (468 patients) on metabolic parameters, serum ions, and all quality-of-life scale scores related to PCOS. The quality of life of patients was evaluated using five relevant scales, operated by the research assistant, namely, PCOSQ, SF-36, and ChiQOL, as well as Zung-SAS and Zung-SDS. Metabolic parameters and serum ions were measured. Results A reduction in acne score, AN, Hcy, and LDL-C, and an increase in the level of lipoprotein α, Apo A1, and Apo A1/Apo B were observed in the acupuncture group after 4 months' intervention after adjusting clomiphene and reproductive outcome (p< 0.05). An increase in SF-36 total scores, RP and RE scores, ChiQOL total scores, and emotion domain scores was observed in the acupuncture group after 4 months' intervention, while PF and HT scores were decreased (adjusted p< 0.05). Those same changes were observed in sham acupuncture. Meanwhile, the serum levels of Ca, K, and Cl were elevated in the acupuncture group after the interventions (adjusted p< 0.005). There were no significant differences in HOMA-IR, MetS, FPG, FINS, HDL-C, TG, Apo B, and level of serum P, Mg, and Na. Also, no changes in BP, GH, VT, SF, physical form domain, and spirit domain were observed after treatment. Conclusion Acupuncture can improve not only the emotional changes in SF-36 scores and ChiQOL scores, but also lipid metabolism, implying that it may have a correlation between emotional change and lipid metabolism. Furthermore, acupuncture can also regulate the changes of serum Ca, K, and Cl. Clinical trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT01573858.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Chang
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
- First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Baichao Shi
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Hang Ge
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Chengdong Liu
- Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Lirong Wang
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Chengcheng Ma
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Lifeng Liu
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Wanyu Zhang
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Duojia Zhang
- First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | | | - Chi Chiu Wang
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Xiaoke Wu
- First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
- Heilongjiang Provincial Hospital, Harbin, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ali Ismail AM. Lipid Profile Response to Acupuncture in Obese Patients with Subjective Tinnitus: a Randomized Controlled Trial. J Acupunct Meridian Stud 2023; 16:11-19. [PMID: 36804817 DOI: 10.51507/j.jams.2023.16.1.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Blood lipid levels have been reported as novel biomarkers for chronic subjective tinnitus (CST), with their levels being higher in patients with CST. Objectives This trial aimed to determine the change in lipid profile and tinnitus-related quality of life (TR-QoL) responses to 8-week acupuncture treatment in patients with CST. Methods Sixty obese patients with CST were randomly assigned to group A (treatment group; n = 30; mean age = 44.10 ± 3.69 years) or group B (sham group; n = 30; mean age = 45.53 ± 3.62 years). Patients in group A (n = 30) received manual stimulation at the TE3, TE5, TE17, TE18, TE19, TE20, TE21, TE22, GB2, GB8, GB20, LI4, LI11, KI3, SP6, ST36, CV4, CV9, and CV12 acupoints through in-site acupuncture needles thrice weekly. Furthermore, the bilateral abdominal ST25 and GB28 acupoints were electrically stimulated through in-site acupuncture needles. Group B (n = 30) received the same acupuncture protocol as group A but the insertion of needles was a sham insertion. Anthropometrics such as body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC), TR-QoL (assessed via tinnitus handicap inventory), blood lipid levels such as high-density lipoprotein (HDLs), low-density lipoprotein (LDLs), cholesterol (C), and triglycerides (TGs), and the visual analogue scale (VAS) score for tinnitus severity, were assessed prospectively. Results Only group A showed significant within-group improvements. Except for HDLs, BMI, and WC, unpaired between-group comparisons showed significantly greater improvements in other outcome measures of all patients with tinnitus (TR-QoL, LDLs, TGs, C, and VAS) in group A than in group B. Conclusion Safe acupuncture treatment not only improves anthropometrics and TR-QoL, but also helps resolve hyperlipidemia and reduces the severity of tinnitus in obese patients with CST.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Mohamed Ali Ismail
- Department of Physical Therapy for Cardiovascular/Respiratory Disorder and Geriatrics, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Lu PH, Chen YY, Tsai FM, Liao YL, Huang HF, Yu WH, Kuo CY. Combined Acupoints for the Treatment of Patients with Obesity: An Association Rule Analysis. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2022; 2022:7252213. [PMID: 35341146 PMCID: PMC8947926 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7252213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Obesity is a prevalent metabolic disease that increases the risk of other diseases, such as hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers. A meta-analysis of 11 randomized sham-controlled trials indicates that acupuncture had adjuvant benefits in improving simple obesity, and previous studies have reported that acupoint combinations were more useful than single-acupoint therapy. The Apriori algorithm, a data mining-based analysis that finds potential correlations in datasets, is broadly applied in medicine and business. This study, based on the Apriori algorithm-based association rule analysis, found the association rules of acupoints among 11 randomized controlled trials (RCTs). There were 23 acupoints extracted from 11 RCTs. We used Python to calculate the association between acupoints and disease. We found the top 10 frequency acupoints were Extra12, TF4, LI4, LI11, ST25, ST36, ST44, CO4, CO18, and CO1. We investigated the 1118 association rule and found that {LI4, ST36} ≥ {ST44}, {LI4, ST44} ≥ {ST36}, and {ST36, ST44} ≥ {LI4} were the most associated rules in the data. Acupoints, including LI4, ST36, and ST44, are the core acupoint combinations in the treatment of simple obesity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ping-Hsun Lu
- Department of Chinese Medicine, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- School of Post-Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Yang Chen
- Department of Mathematics National Central University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Fu-Ming Tsai
- Department of Research, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Yuan-Ling Liao
- Department of Chinese Medicine, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Fen Huang
- Department of Chinese Medicine, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- School of Post-Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Hsuan Yu
- Department of Mathematics National Central University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Chan-Yen Kuo
- Department of Research, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
The efficacy and safety of auriculotherapy for weight loss: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Integr Med 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eujim.2021.101402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
6
|
Santos MC, Rothstein JR, Tesser CD. Auriculotherapy in obesity care in primary health care: A systematic review. ADVANCES IN INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aimed.2021.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
|
7
|
Auricular concha eletroacupuncture modulates lipid-lipoprotein metabolism in rats submitted to cold stress. WORLD JOURNAL OF ACUPUNCTURE-MOXIBUSTION 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wjam.2019.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
8
|
Chen J, Chen D, Ren Q, Zhu W, Xu S, Lu L, Chen X, Yan D, Nie H, Zhou X. Acupuncture and related techniques for obesity and cardiovascular risk factors: a systematic review and meta-regression analysis. Acupunct Med 2020; 38:227-234. [PMID: 32310001 DOI: 10.1136/acupmed-2018-011646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess how acupuncture and related techniques affect weight-related indicators and cardiovascular risk factors compared with non-acupuncture interventions in overweight and obese patients. METHODS We searched PubMed, Embase and CENTRAL up to 19 April 2018 and included relevant randomised controlled trials (RCTs). Weighted mean differences (WMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were pooled using the inverse variance method with random-effects model. Prespecified hypotheses were tested in meta-regression to investigate the source of heterogeneity. Statistical software packages used were RevMan 5.3.5 and Stata 14.0. RESULTS Thirty-three RCTs were included (n=2503 patients). Compared with non-acupuncture interventions, acupuncture produced a greater reduction in body weight (WMD -1.76 kg, 95% CI -2.22 to -1.30, I2=77%; moderate quality), body mass index (WMD -1.13 kg/m2, 95% CI -1.38 to -0.88, I2=85%; low quality) and waist circumference (WMD -2.42 cm, 95% CI -3.22 to -1.62, I2=75%; moderate quality). Acupuncture plus lifestyle intervention resulted in a greater reduction in body weight than acupuncture alone (MD -1.94 kg, 95% CI -3.17 to -0.70). Acupuncture also led to a greater reduction in total cholesterol (WMD -12.87 mg/dL, 95% CI -22.17 to -3.57, I2=87%; very low quality) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (WMD -13.52 mg/dL, 95% CI -21.47 to -5.58, I2=74%; low quality). The differences were not statistically significant for blood glucose or blood pressure. CONCLUSION In the short term, acupuncture and related techniques may produce a small but statistically significant degree of weight loss based on moderate- to low-quality evidence, and improve serum lipid parameters based on low- to very-low-quality evidence. Their effects on blood glucose and blood pressure remain uncertain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianrong Chen
- Evidence-Based Medicine Research Centre, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China.,Department of Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Dongping Chen
- Evidence-Based Medicine Research Centre, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
| | - Qing Ren
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Weifeng Zhu
- Evidence-Based Medicine Research Centre, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
| | - Sheng Xu
- Evidence-Based Medicine Research Centre, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
| | - Ling Lu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China.,People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaofan Chen
- Evidence-Based Medicine Research Centre, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
| | - Dongmei Yan
- Evidence-Based Medicine Research Centre, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
| | - Heyun Nie
- Evidence-Based Medicine Research Centre, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
| | - Xu Zhou
- Evidence-Based Medicine Research Centre, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Mendonça CR, Coelho Dos Santos LS, Noll M, Silveira EA, Arruda JT. Effects of auriculotherapy on weight and body mass index reduction in patients with overweight or obesity: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2019; 38:101069. [PMID: 31685381 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2019.101069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2019] [Revised: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Auriculotherapy is based on the stimulation of reflex points in the ear. However, little is known about its weight-reducing effects. The aim of the present systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the effects of auriculotherapy on weight and/or (BMI) reduction in overweight or patients with obesity. METHODS Twelve articles were selected for systematic review. Four randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating weight reduction and five investigating BMI reduction were selected for the meta-analyzes. RESULTS The results revealed an association between auriculotherapy and weight reduction (WMD, 1.507; 95% CI, 0.606-2.407; p < 0.000). Auriculotherapy was also significantly associated with BMI reduction (WMD, 0.865; 95% CI, 0.533-1.196; p < 0.004). CONCLUSIONS We found that auriculotherapy was effective in reducing weight and/or BMI in overweight or patients with obesity. However, the findings should be interpreted with caution due to heterogeneity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Rodrigues Mendonça
- Physical Therapy Undergraduate Course, Faculdade do Esporte ESEFFEGO, Universidade Estadual de Goiás (UEG), Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil; Graduate Program in Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Brazil.
| | - Larissa Silva Coelho Dos Santos
- Physical Therapy Undergraduate Course, Faculdade do Esporte ESEFFEGO, Universidade Estadual de Goiás (UEG), Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Matias Noll
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Brazil; Instituto Federal Goiano, Ceres Campus, Goiás, Brazil
| | | | - Jalsi Tacon Arruda
- Department of Medicine, Centro Universitário de Anápolis - UniEvangélica, Anápolis, Goiás, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Huang CF, Guo SE, Chou FH. Auricular acupressure for overweight and obese individuals: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2019; 98:e16144. [PMID: 31261540 PMCID: PMC6617497 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000016144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Auricular acupressure has been used for treating obesity, but inconsistent outcomes have been reported. Moreover, systematic reviews and meta-analyses have seldom addressed the effects of auricular acupressure and duration of treatment in overweight/obese individuals. This study reviewed research articles on auricular acupressure for weight reduction, analyzed the related effects on obesity, and explored the relationships between weight reduction and treatment duration, as well as outcome variables. METHODS We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, MEDLINE with Full Text, National Digital Library of Theses and Dissertation in Taiwan, and Airiti Library for articles up to July 4, 2018. Eight eligible trials were identified for qualitative synthesis, and one of them was excluded from quantitative synthesis. Inclusion criteria were as follows: intervention contained auricular acupressure, study subjects were overweight and/or obese, as defined by published authors, and the study design had 2 or more arms for comparison. RESULTS Pooled analysis of the 7 remaining studies revealed that auricular acupressure alone, or with diet and/or exercise, was effective for weight reduction, particularly for decreasing body weight (BW), body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), body fat mass (BFM), and body fat percentage (BFP), compared with no treatment, sham treatment, or use of surgical tape with diet and/or exercise. However, there was no effect on hip circumference. A 12-week acupressure intervention was associated with a larger effect on lowering BW and BMI compared with 4-, 6-, and 8-week interventions. The methodologic quality of trials included in the quantitative synthesis ranged from scores 2 to 6 based on the modified Jadad scale. Additionally, this meta-analysis combined studies that used different acupoints and outcomes evaluated at different timepoints, which may have been potential sources of bias. CONCLUSION The study results indicate that auricular acupressure is effective for weight reduction. However, further vigorous studies that use double-blind randomized controlled design are needed to verify these findings. WC, WHR, BFP, or BFM should be used as obesity-related parameters in weight reduction studies to detect changes in fat, muscle, and skeletal weight.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ching-Feng Huang
- Department of Nursing, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Chiayi County
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung Medical Foundation
- Doctoral student, College of Nursing, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung
| | - Su-Er Guo
- Department of Nursing, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Chiayi County
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung Medical Foundation, Chiayi County
| | - Fan-Hao Chou
- College of Nursing, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Republic of China (Taiwan)
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Suen L, Wang W, Cheng KKY, Chua MCH, Yeung JWF, Koh WK, Yeung SKW, Ho JYS. Self-Administered Auricular Acupressure Integrated With a Smartphone App for Weight Reduction: Randomized Feasibility Trial. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2019; 7:e14386. [PMID: 31144666 PMCID: PMC6658225 DOI: 10.2196/14386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Revised: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obesity is a common global health problem and increases the risk of many chronic illnesses. Given the adverse effects of antiobesity agents and bariatric surgeries, the exploration of noninvasive and nonpharmacological complementary methods for weight reduction is warranted. OBJECTIVE The study aimed to determine whether self-administered auricular acupressure (AA) integrated with a smartphone app was more effective than using AA alone or the controls for weight reduction. METHODS This study is a 3-arm randomized waitlist-controlled feasibility trial. A total of 59 eligible participants were randomly divided into either group 1 (AA group, n=19), group 2 (AA plus smartphone app, n=19), or group 3 (waitlist control, n=21). A total of 6 reflective zones or acupoints for weight reduction were chosen. The smartphone app could send out daily messages to the subjects to remind them to perform self-pressing on the 6 ear acupoints. A "date picker" of the 8-week treatment course was used to enable the users to input the compliance of pressing and the number of bowel movement daily instead of using the booklet for recordings. The app also served as a reminder for the subjects regarding the dates for returning to the center for acupoint changing and assessments. Treatment was delivered 2 times a week, for 8 weeks. Generalized estimating equations were used to examine the interactions among the groups before and after intervention. RESULTS Subjects in group 2 expressed that the smartphone app was useful (7.41 out of 10). The most popular features were the daily reminders for performing self-pressing (88%), the ear diagram indicating the locations and functions of the 6 ear points (71%), and ear pressing method demonstrated in the video scripts (47%). Nearly 90% of the participants completed the 8-week intervention, with a high satisfaction toward the overall arrangement (8.37 out of 10). The subjects in group 1 and 2 achieved better therapeutic effects in terms of body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and hip circumference and perceived more fullness before meals than the waitlist controls. Although no significant differences in the pairwise comparisons between the 2 groups were detected (P>.05), the decrease in body weight, BMI, body fat, visceral fat rating and leptin level, and increase in adiponectin level were notable in group 2 before and after the intervention. CONCLUSIONS The high compliance rate and high satisfaction toward the trial arrangement indicate that AA can be used to achieve weight reduction and applied in future large-scale studies. AA integrated with the smartphone app has a more notable effect than using AA alone for weight reduction. Larger sample size should be considered in future trials to determine the causal relationship between treatment and effect. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03442712; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03442712 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/78L2tO8Ql).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorna Suen
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China (Hong Kong)
| | - Wenru Wang
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yoog Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kenneth King Yip Cheng
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China (Hong Kong)
| | - Matthew Chin Heng Chua
- Smart Health Leadership Centre, Institute of Systems Science, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jerry Wing Fai Yeung
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China (Hong Kong)
| | - Wai Kin Koh
- Smart Health Leadership Centre, Institute of Systems Science, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Simon Kai Wang Yeung
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China (Hong Kong)
| | - Janice Yuen Shan Ho
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China (Hong Kong)
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kim SY, Shin IS, Park YJ. Effect of acupuncture and intervention types on weight loss: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Obes Rev 2018; 19:1585-1596. [PMID: 30180304 DOI: 10.1111/obr.12747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2018] [Revised: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the effect of acupuncture and intervention types on weight loss. We searched electronic databases, including Embase, PubMed, CENTRAL, RISS, KISS and CNKI, for randomized controlled trials that used acupuncture to treat obesity before June 2017. We found 27 trials involving 32 intervention arms and 2,219 patients. Acupuncture plus lifestyle modification (LM) was more effective than LM alone (Hedges' g = 1.104, 95% CI = 0.531-1.678) and sham acupuncture plus LM (Hedges' g = 0.324, 95% CI = 0.177-0.471), whereas acupuncture alone was not more effective than sham acupuncture alone and no treatment. Auricular acupuncture (Hedges' g = 0.522, 95% CI = 0.152-0.893), manual acupuncture (Hedges' g = 0445, 95% CI = 0.044-0.846) and pharmacopuncture (Hedges' g = 0.411, 95% CI = 0.026-0.796) favoured weight loss. Finally, acupuncture treatment was effective only in subjects with overweight (25 ≤ body mass index < 30, Hedges' g = 0.528, 95% CI = 0.279-0.776), not in subjects with obesity (body mass index ≥30). Our study suggests that the effect of acupuncture on weight loss may be maximized when auricular and manual acupuncture or pharmacopuncture treatment is combined with LM in patients with overweight.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S-Y Kim
- Department of Biofunctional Medicine & Diagnostics, College of Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - I-S Shin
- Department of Education, College of Education, Jeonju University, Jeonju, South Korea
| | - Y-J Park
- Department of Biofunctional Medicine & Diagnostics, College of Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Diagnosis and Biofunctional Medicine, Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong, Seoul, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Vieira A, Reis AM, Matos LC, Machado J, Moreira A. Does auriculotherapy have therapeutic effectiveness? An overview of systematic reviews. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2018; 33:61-70. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2018.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2018] [Revised: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
14
|
Acupuncture and Related Therapies for Obesity: A Network Meta-Analysis. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2018; 2018:9569685. [PMID: 30363899 PMCID: PMC6186334 DOI: 10.1155/2018/9569685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Accepted: 09/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Obesity is a worldwide public health problem. Currently, increasing evidence suggests acupuncture and related therapies are effective for obesity. This network meta-analysis (NMA) was performed to compare the effectiveness of different acupuncture and related therapies. We searched potential randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in three international databases. Thirty-four trials involving 2283 participants were included. Pairwise meta-analysis showed that acupuncture and related therapies were superior to lifestyle modification and placebo in reducing weight and body mass index (BMI). Based on decreases in body weight, results from NMA showed that acupoint catgut embedding (standard mean difference [SMD]: 1.26; 95% credible interval [95% CI], 0.46–2.06), acupuncture (SMD: 2.72; 95% CrI, 0.06–5.29), and combination of acupuncture and related theories (SMD: 3.65; 95% CrI, 0.96–6.94) were more effective than placebo. Another NMA result indicated that acupoint catgut embedding (SMD: 0.63; 95% CI, 0.25–1.11), acupuncture (SMD: 1.28; 95% CrI, 0.43–2.06), combination of acupuncture and related therapies (SMD: 1.44; 95% CrI, 0.64–2.38), and electroacupuncture (SMD: 0.60; 95% CrI, 0.03–1.22) were superior to lifestyle modification in decreasing BMI. Combination of acupuncture and related therapies was ranked the optimal method for both reducing weight and BMI. Further studies will clarify which combination of acupuncture and related therapies is better.
Collapse
|
15
|
Effect of Auriculotherapy on the Plasma Concentration of Biomarkers in Individuals with Knee Osteoarthritis. J Acupunct Meridian Stud 2018; 11:145-152. [PMID: 29783048 DOI: 10.1016/j.jams.2018.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2017] [Revised: 03/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is one of the most frequent noncommunicable diseases with pain associated symptoms and affects the musculoskeletal system. Various forms of treatment can be indicated, and nonpharmacological treatment is also an available option for the management of KOA individuals. For instance, auriculotherapy (AT) is one possible procedure associated with the Traditional Chinese Medicine for dealing with KOA. It is believed that the concentration of certain biomarkers could be altered in individuals with KOA after AT. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of AT on plasma concentration of biomarkers in KOA individuals. This intervention is a controlled trial. Twenty-one subjects were grouped in two groups and submitted to AT with the stimulation of the Shen Men, kidney, and knee points in the treatment group or different points in the control group, once a week for 5 weeks. Blood was collected before the beginning of protocols and a week after the last session. Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Wilcoxon tests were performed, and a p ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Hematological parameters did not show any significant variation between the control group and treated group. Concerning the biochemical parameters, a significant reduction of direct bilirubin (from 43.31 ± 22.10 to 21.21 ± 5.30 μmol/L, p = 0.003), aspartate aminotransferase (from 0.48 ± 0.16 to 0.38 ± 0.09 μKat/L, p = 0.010), and triglycerides (from 7.04 ± 2.90 to 5.45 ± 2.57 mmol/L, p = 0.008) in the treated group was obtained. In conclusion, the analysis of results suggests that AT might be a useful intervention for the management of KOA individuals.
Collapse
|
16
|
The Effect of Auricular Acupoint Stimulation in Overweight and Obese Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2017; 2017:3080547. [PMID: 29358964 PMCID: PMC5735786 DOI: 10.1155/2017/3080547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2017] [Revised: 08/11/2017] [Accepted: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Objective To investigate the effect of auricular acupoint stimulation on overweight and obese adults. Methods We searched databases including PubMed, EMBASE, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database, National Knowledge Infrastructure, and the PerioPath Index to Taiwan Periodical Literature. The modified Jadad scale was used to assess study quality. We investigated the effect of auricular acupoint stimulation on anthropometric measurements. Results Eighteen randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in our systematic review. Thirteen RCTs were pooled in a meta-analysis that revealed a significant reduction in body weight (BW) with a mean difference (MD) of −1.21 kg and a 95% confidence interval (CI) from −1.94 to −0.47 with a heterogeneity of I2 = 88%. Significant decreases in body mass index (BMI; MD: −0.57 kg/m2; 95% CI −0.82 to −0.33; I2 = 78%), body fat (BF; MD: −0.83%; 95% CI −1.43 to −0.24; I2 = 0%), and waist circumference (WC; MD: −1.75 cm; 95% CI −2.95 to −0.55; I2 = 87%) were also revealed. Conclusions This meta-analysis shows that auricular acupoint stimulation improves physical anthropometric parameters including BW, BMI, BF, and WC in overweight and obese adults. These methods are less effective on hip circumference and waist-to-hip ratio.
Collapse
|
17
|
Mazidi M, Abbasi-Parizad P, Abdi H, Zhao B, Rahsepar AA, Tavallaie S, Parizadeh SM, Rezaie P, Safariyan M, Nematy M, Mohammadi M, Darbandi M, Darbandi S, Ghayour-Mobarhan M, Ferns GA. The effect of electro-acupuncture on pro-oxidant antioxidant balance values in overweight and obese subjects: a randomized controlled trial study. JOURNAL OF COMPLEMENTARY & INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 2017; 15:/j/jcim.ahead-of-print/jcim-2015-0081/jcim-2015-0081.xml. [PMID: 29197218 DOI: 10.1515/jcim-2015-0081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2016] [Accepted: 09/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Objective To undertake a randomized controlled trial in 196 obese subjects to examine the effect of electro-acupuncture on serum pro-oxidant antioxidant balance (PAB) values. Methods Subjects received authentic acupuncture (cases) or sham acupuncture (controls) for 6 weeks in combination with a low-calorie diet. In the following 6 weeks, they received the low-calorie diet alone. Serum PAB was measured at baseline, and 6 and 12 weeks later. Results We found that serum PAB values decreased significantly in the group receiving the authentic acupuncture compared to the sham treatment (p<0.001) at week 6, and whilst serum PAB increased significantly (p<0.05) in the second phase of the study, a significant difference between two groups remained at 12 weeks (p<0.05). Conclusions Electro-acupuncture in combination with a low-calorie diet was more effective at reducing serum PAB values in obese subjects compared to diet alone. Further work is required to determine the mechanism by which electro-acupuncture has this effect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Mazidi
- Key State Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, International College, University of Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100101, China
| | - P Abbasi-Parizad
- Biochemistry of Nutrition Research Center, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran
| | - H Abdi
- Key State Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - B Zhao
- Biochemistry of Nutrition Research Center, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran
| | - A A Rahsepar
- Biochemistry of Nutrition Research Center, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran
| | - S Tavallaie
- Biochemistry of Nutrition Research Center, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran
| | - S M Parizadeh
- Biochemistry of Nutrition Research Center, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran
| | - P Rezaie
- Biochemistry of Nutrition Research Center, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran
| | - M Safariyan
- Biochemistry of Nutrition Research Center, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran
| | - M Nematy
- Biochemistry of Nutrition Research Center, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran
| | - M Mohammadi
- Biochemistry of Nutrition Research Center, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran
| | - M Darbandi
- Biochemistry of Nutrition Research Center, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran
| | - S Darbandi
- Biochemistry of Nutrition Research Center, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran
| | - M Ghayour-Mobarhan
- Biochemistry of Nutrition Research Center, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine. Biochemistry and Nutrition, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences (MUMS), Post code: 91779-48564Po BOX: 91775-379 Mashhad, Iran
| | - G A Ferns
- Division of Medical Education, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Brighton, Rm 342, Mayfield House, Brighton BN1 9PH, UK
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Zhang RQ, Tan J, Li FY, Ma YH, Han LX, Yang XL. Acupuncture for the treatment of obesity in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Postgrad Med J 2017; 93:743-751. [PMID: 28689171 DOI: 10.1136/postgradmedj-2017-134969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Revised: 05/24/2017] [Accepted: 06/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Meta-analysis was used to assess the clinical efficacy of acupuncture treatment for simple obesity and to provide evidence-based medical data for treating obesity with acupuncture. METHODS A comprehensive search of studies on MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Chinese databases (Wan Fang,CNKI and VIP) from 1 January 1915 through 30 November 2015 (MEDLINE search updated through 31 December 2015) was performed. We included only randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that used acupuncture and sham acupuncture to treat simple obesity. The effect of acupuncture on simple obesity was measured using body mass index (BMI), body fat mass (BFM), waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), and body weight (BW). The Jadad scale was used to assess methodological quality. The random effects model was used in the pooled analysis to adjust for the heterogeneity of the included studies, and funnel plots were used to examine publication bias. The differences between treatment groups were reported as mean differences (MD). RESULTS Eleven RCTs were selected after all relevant literature from the electronic databases had been screened. There were 338 and 305 participants in the acupuncture and sham acupuncture groups, respectively. Auricular and electro acupuncture were both able to reduce BMI in obese patients (MD 0.47 kg/m2, 95% CI 0.35 to 0.58, p<0.001; MD 0.50 kg/m2, 95% CI 0.38 to 0.62, p<0.001). BFM change after acupuncture treatment compared with sham treatment was statistically significant (MD 0.66 kg, 95% CI 0.51 to 0.80, p<0.001). There were also significant differences in WC and HC between the acupuncture and sham acupuncture groups (MDwc2.02 cm, 95% CI 0.21 to 3.83, p=0.03; MDHC2.74 cm, 95% CI 1.21 to 4.27, p=0.0004). BW was not statistically significantly different between the acupuncture and sham acupuncture groups (MD 0.60 kg, 95% CI -0.20 to 1.39, p=0.14). Begg's test and funnel plots showed that the potential publication bias of the included studies was very slight (p>0.05). CONCLUSION Acupuncture for simple obesity appeared to be an effective treatment, but more studies on the safety of acupuncture used to treat simple obesity are required.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rong-Qiang Zhang
- School of Public Health, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang 712046, Shaanxi, China.,Institute of Endemic Diseases of School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases of the National Health and Family Planning Commission, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jiao Tan
- Department of Public Health, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an 710021, Shaanxi, China
| | - Feng-Ying Li
- Immunization Department of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Xianyang 712046, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yong-Hong Ma
- Department of Public Health, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an 710021, Shaanxi, China
| | - Li-Xin Han
- Institute of Endemic Diseases of School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases of the National Health and Family Planning Commission, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiao-Li Yang
- Institute of Endemic Diseases of School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Endemic Diseases of the National Health and Family Planning Commission, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Xie XC, Cao YQ, Gao Q, Wang C, Li M, Wei SG. Acupuncture Improves Intestinal Absorption of Iron in Iron-deficient Obese Patients: A Randomized Controlled Preliminary Trial. Chin Med J (Engl) 2017; 130:508-515. [PMID: 28229980 PMCID: PMC5339922 DOI: 10.4103/0366-6999.200549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Obesity has an adverse effect on iron status. Hepcidin-mediated inhibition of iron absorption in the duodenum is a potential mechanism. Iron-deficient obese patients have diminished response to oral iron therapy. This study was designed to assess whether acupuncture could promote the efficacy of oral iron supplementation for the treatment of obesity-related iron deficiency (ID). Methods: Sixty ID or ID anemia (IDA) patients with obesity were screened at Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine and were randomly allocated to receive either oral iron replacement allied with acupuncture weight loss treatment (acupuncture group, n = 30) or oral iron combined with sham-acupuncture treatment (control group, n = 30). Anthropometric parameters were measured and blood samples were tested pre- and post-treatment. Differences in the treatment outcomes of ID/IDA were compared between the two groups. Results: After 8 weeks of acupuncture treatment, there was a significant decrease in body weight, body mass index, waist circumference, and waist/hip circumference ratio of patients in the acupuncture group, while no significant changes were observed in the control group. Oral iron supplementation brought more obvious improvements of iron status indicators including absolute increases in serum iron (11.08 ± 2.19 μmol/L vs. 4.43 ± 0.47 μmol/L), transferrin saturation (11.26 ± 1.65% vs. 1.01 ± 0.23%), and hemoglobin (31.47 ± 1.19 g/L vs. 21.00 ± 2.69 g/L) in the acupuncture group than control group (all P < 0.05). Meanwhile, serum leptin (2.26 ± 0.45 ng/ml vs. 8.13 ± 0.55 ng/ml, P < 0.05) and hepcidin (3.52 ± 1.23 ng/ml vs. 6.77 ± 0.84 ng/ml, P < 0.05) concentrations declined significantly in the acupuncture group than those in the control group. Conclusion: Acupuncture-based weight loss can enhance the therapeutic effects of iron replacement therapy for obesity-related ID/IDA through improving intestinal iron absorption, probably by downregulating the systemic leptin-hepcidin levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Cai Xie
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Yan-Qiang Cao
- Department of Children's and Women's Health, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Qian Gao
- Department of Children's and Women's Health, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Chen Wang
- Department of Children's and Women's Health, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Man Li
- Department of Children's and Women's Health, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Shou-Gang Wei
- Department of Children's and Women's Health, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Abdominal and auricular acupuncture reduces blood pressure in hypertensive patients. Complement Ther Med 2017; 31:20-26. [PMID: 28434467 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2017.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2016] [Revised: 12/27/2016] [Accepted: 01/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hypertension is an important risk factor of cardiovascular disease (CVD), which is associated with premature death, myocardial infarction, stroke, peripheral vascular disease, and renal disease. The goal of the present study was to use a randomized controlled clinical trial to explore and compare the effectiveness of abdominal and auricular acupuncture on blood pressure in 440 subjects with and without obesity. METHODS Four hundred participants were recruited and randomized to one of four groups: cases and controls receiving auricular acupuncture (204 subjects) and cases and controls receiving abdominal electroacupuncture (196 subjects). Blood pressure and anthropometric parameters were measured before and after the intervention period. In order to match the initial diet of the groups, participants were required to follow an isocaloric diet for two weeks before the trial, and a low-calorie diet for 6 weeks during the intervention period. RESULTS We observed a significant time dependent improvement in the systolic blood pressure measurements in the abdominal intervention group, although this improvement was more pronounce in the first period of study. Of note, in the auricular intervention group, a significant increasing in the level of SBP was detected. Importantly no statistically significant changes were found in the corresponding sham groups. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrated that abdominal electro-acupuncture for 6 weeks reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure and auricular acupuncture had a short-term adverse effect on both SBP and DBP.
Collapse
|
21
|
Moore CB, Hickey AH. Increasing Access to Auricular Acupuncture for Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting. J Perianesth Nurs 2016; 32:96-105. [PMID: 28343649 DOI: 10.1016/j.jopan.2015.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2014] [Revised: 03/07/2015] [Accepted: 06/01/2015] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) affects more than 30% of surgical patients. Auricular acupuncture (AA) has been shown to decrease the incidence of PONV in select populations. DESIGN An evidence-based quality improvement project made AA available to all adult surgical patients, and the results were recorded in a database. A retrospective between-groups analysis of 210 database entries was conducted, of those 25 receiving AA. FINDINGS More risk factors for PONV were present in the AA group (P < .001). Both groups experienced a less-than-expected rate of PONV. Similar rates were shown between groups for PONV, postanesthesia care unit length of stay, and opioid consumption. Patient satisfaction was 96% with AA. The AA group was treated with less antiemetic medication (P < .001), yet PONV rates remained similar. CONCLUSIONS A multimodal approach treating patients at risk for PONV is recommended. Administration of multiple antiemetics may result in unnecessary cost or unfavorable side effects when effective and less costly alternatives exist. AA is a viable treatment for PONV, considering cost and patient satisfaction.
Collapse
|
22
|
Darbandi S, Darbandi M, Mokarram P, Sadeghi MR, Owji AA, Khorram Khorshid HR, Zhao B, Heidari M. CME Article:The Acupuncture-Affected Gene Expressions and Epigenetic Modifications in Oxidative Stress–Associated Diseases. Med Acupunct 2016. [DOI: 10.1089/acu.2015.1134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Darbandi
- Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Darbandi
- Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pooneh Mokarram
- Department of Biochemistry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Sadeghi
- Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Akbar Owji
- Department of Biochemistry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Baxiao Zhao
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Mahnaz Heidari
- Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Hou PW, Hsu HC, Lin YW, Tang NY, Cheng CY, Hsieh CL. The History, Mechanism, and Clinical Application of Auricular Therapy in Traditional Chinese Medicine. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2015; 2015:495684. [PMID: 26823672 PMCID: PMC4707384 DOI: 10.1155/2015/495684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 12/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Auricular therapy includes acupuncture, electroacupuncture, acupressure, lasering, cauterization, moxibustion, and bloodletting in the auricle. For 2500 years, people have employed auricular therapy for treating diseases, but the methods have been limited to bloodletting and cauterization. Only after 1957, the international scientific community became aware that the map of the ear resembles an inverted fetus, its introduction has led to auricular acupuncture (AA) becoming a more systemic approach, and, following the identification and standardization of more precise points, AA has been employed in clinical applications. The mechanisms of AA are considered to have a close relationship with the autonomic nervous system, the neuroendocrine system, neuroimmunological factors, neuroinflammation, and neural reflex, as well as antioxidation. Auricular therapy has been applied, for example, for pain relief, for the treatment of epilepsy, anxiety, and obesity, and for improving sleep quality. However, the mechanisms and evidence for auricular therapy warrant further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pu-Wei Hou
- Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Cheng Hsu
- Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Wen Lin
- Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Nou-Ying Tang
- School of Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Chin-Yi Cheng
- School of Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Liang Hsieh
- Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Zhang CS, Xia J, Zhang AL, Yang AW, Thien F, Li Y, Wu D, Cai J, DaCosta C, Xue CC. Ear acupressure for perennial allergic rhinitis: A multicenter randomized controlled trial. Am J Rhinol Allergy 2015; 28:e152-7. [PMID: 25197908 DOI: 10.2500/ajra.2014.28.4081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perennial allergic rhinitis (PAR) has a high and increasing prevalence worldwide. Ear acupressure (EAP) is a noninvasive semi-self-administered form of acupuncture. Previous studies indicated that EAP could be effective and safe for AR symptom management. However, there was insufficient evidence to confirm this. This study investigated whether EAP, a noninvasive clinical alternative to acupuncture, is effective and safe for PAR. METHODS This is an international, multicenter, randomized, single-blind, sham-controlled trial. The trial was conducted at two centers: Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University (Melbourne, Australia) Clinical Trial Clinic and Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China. PAR participants were randomized to receive real or sham EAP treatment once a week for 8 weeks and then were followed-up for 12 weeks. Participants were instructed to administer EAP stimulation three times daily. Symptom severity and quality of life (QoL) were evaluated. Adverse events (AEs) were also monitored. Intention-to-treat analysis on change of symptom scores and QoL was applied. RESULTS Two hundred forty-five participants were randomly assigned to real (n = 124) and sham EAP (n = 121) groups. Twenty-five participants discontinued during treatment and 15 participants dropped out during follow-up. At the end of treatment and follow-up periods, changes of global QoL score were significantly greater in the real EAP group compared with the sham group. At the end of follow-up, scores for total nasal symptom, runny nose, and eye symptoms in the real EAP group had a greater reduction compared with the sham group. Overall, both real and sham EAP were well tolerated. Two severe AEs were reported but were not considered related to the EAP procedures. CONCLUSION In conclusion, EAP showed short-term and extended benefit for improving PAR symptoms and QoL for PAR patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claire S Zhang
- Traditional & Complementary Medicine Research Program, Health Innovations Research Institute, School of Health Sciences, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Yu C, Ji K, Cao H, Wang Y, Jin HH, Zhang Z, Yang G. Effectiveness of acupuncture for angina pectoris: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Altern Ther Health Med 2015; 15:90. [PMID: 25888363 PMCID: PMC4426772 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-015-0586-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2013] [Accepted: 02/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Background The purpose of this systematic review is to assess the effectiveness of acupuncture for angina pectoris. Methods Eleven electronic databases were searched until January 2013. The study included randomized controlled trials that the effectiveness of acupuncture alone was compared to anti-angina medicines (in addition to conventional treatment) and the effectiveness of a combination of acupuncture plus anti-angina medicines was compared to anti-angina medicines alone. The trial selection, data extraction, quality assessment and data analytic procedures outlined in the 2011 Cochrane Handbook were involved. Results The study included 25 randomized controlled trials (involving 2,058 patients) that met our inclusion criteria. The pooled results showed that the number of patients with ineffectiveness of angina relief was less in the combined acupuncture-anti-angina treatment group than in the anti-angina medicines alone group (RR 0.33, 95% CI 0.23-0.47, p < 0.00001, I2 = 0%). Similarly, compared to the anti-angina medicines alone group, fewer patients in the combined treatment group showed no ECG improvement (RR 0.50, 95% CI 0.40-0.62, p < 0.00001, I2 = 0%). However, no differences were observed between acupuncture treatment alone and anti-angina medicines alone for both outcome measures. Only four trials mentioned adverse effects. One trial found no significant difference between acupuncture and Chinese medicine, and three reported no adverse events. The quality of the trials was found to be low. Conclusions The findings showed very low evidence to support the use of acupuncture for improving angina symptoms and ECG of angina patients. However, the quality of the trials included in this study was low. Large and rigorously designed trials are needed to confirm the potential benefit and adverse events of acupuncture. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12906-015-0586-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
|
26
|
Darbandi M, Darbandi S, Owji AA, Mokarram P, Mobarhan MG, Fardaei M, Zhao B, Abdi H, Nematy M, Safarian M, Parizadeh MR, Dabbaghmanesh MH, Abbasi P, Ferns G. Auricular or body acupuncture: which one is more effective in reducing abdominal fat mass in Iranian men with obesity: a randomized clinical trial. J Diabetes Metab Disord 2014; 13:92. [PMID: 25505744 PMCID: PMC4261582 DOI: 10.1186/s40200-014-0092-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2014] [Accepted: 08/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of abdominal obesity is on the rise worldwide. Previous studies have indicated the higher diagnostic value of body fat distribution pattern compared with general body in abdominal obesity assessments. Several non-pharmacological methods have been suggested for obesity management, of which acupuncture has gained a great deal of research interest with promising results. This study aimed to comparatively evaluate the effects of conventional auricular and body electroacupuncture on abdominal fat mass in obese men. METHODS The volunteers were randomly divided into four groups, including 2 interventions and 2 controls. This study was conducted on 80 obese volunteer men with Body Mass Index (BMI) range of 30-40 kg/m2.The intervention groups including real body electroacupuncture (A), real auricular acupuncture (C) and the control groups containing sham body electroacupuncture (B), and sham auricular acupuncture (D). All groups were in combination with a low-calorie diet for 6 weeks. BMI, Trunk Fat Mass (TFM), Waist Circumference (WC), and Hip Circumference (HC) were measured pre- and post-intervention. RESULTS In group A, respectively a significant reduction was shown in BMI (P < 0.005), TFM (P < 0.005), WC (P < 0.05, P < 0.005) and HC (P < 0.005) when compared with controls (Groups B and D). Interestingly, group C had significant decreases in BMI (P < 0.005), TFM (P < 0.01, P < 0.005), WC (P < 0.005) and HC (P < 0.001) after comparison with the sham. Likewise, WC (P < 0.05) and HC (P < 0.05) were significantly reduced post- intervention when compared with two treatment groups. CONCLUSIONS In our study, acupuncture treatment (body or auricular) seemed to have an effect on reducing BMI, TFM, WC and HC. Comparison of the two types of treatment (body and auricular acupuncture) suggests that the two types of acupuncture had similar effects on reducing BMI and TFM, but body electroacupuncture is more effective in reducing WC and auricular in HC. It seems that both auricular and body electro-acupuncture combined with a low-calorie diet are efficient, simple and painless methods to reduce respectively the HC and WC fat in obese men, compared with conventional techniques. TRIAL REGISTRATION IRCT201201127117N2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Darbandi
- Department of Biochemistry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sara Darbandi
- Department of Biochemistry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ali Akbar Owji
- Department of Biochemistry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Pooneh Mokarram
- Department of Biochemistry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran ; Gastroenterohepatology Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Nemazee Hospital, Shiraz Medical School-Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Majid Ghayor Mobarhan
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Avicenna (Bu-Ali) Research Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Majid Fardaei
- Department of Genetics, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Baxiao Zhao
- School of Acupuncture-moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Hamid Abdi
- Institute for Science & Technology in Medicine, Keele University, Hartshill, UK
| | - Mohsen Nematy
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Avicenna (Bu-Ali) Research Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran ; Biochemistry of Nutrition Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Safarian
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Avicenna (Bu-Ali) Research Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Parizadeh
- Biochemistry of Nutrition Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Dabbaghmanesh
- Endocrine Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Nemazee Hospital, Shiraz Medical School-Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Parisa Abbasi
- Biochemistry of Nutrition Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Gordon Ferns
- Institute for Science & Technology in Medicine, Keele University, Hartshill, UK
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Ju Y, Zhang H, Chen M, Chi X, Lan W, Zhang H, Mo J, Yung NY. Effects of auricular stimulation in the cavum conchae on glucometabolism in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Complement Ther Med 2014; 22:858-63. [PMID: 25440376 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2014.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2014] [Revised: 05/30/2014] [Accepted: 09/04/2014] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of auricular stimulation in cavum conchae on the glycemic control for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. METHODS Seventy-one cases were treated with auricular electrical stimulator in the cavum choncha for 30 min, once daily for consecutive 3 months. The changes on the fasting plasma glucose (FBG), 2-h postprandial blood glucose after a 75 g oral glucose load (P2BG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine (SCr), total cholesterol (TC) and aspartate transaminase (AST) were compared before and after the treatment. RESULTS The level of the HbA1c was significantly decreased (P<0.05), and there were also statistically significant decreases in BUN, SCr, TC and AST after the treatment (P<0.05). A few patients (n=7) reduced the dose of the hypoglycemic agents in response to repeated hypoglycemia during the treatment. CONCLUSION The stimulation in the cavum conchae of patients with types 2 diabetes mellitus may help decrease HbA1c, BUN, SCr, TC and AST, and may be an effective treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanli Ju
- Peking University of Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Hongwei Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Miaoling Chen
- Peking University of Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China; Medical College of Shantou University, Shantou, Guangdong Province, China; Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xu Chi
- Peking University of Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Wei Lan
- Peking University of Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Honglei Zhang
- Peking University of Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | | | - Ng Yuen Yung
- Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Zhang CS, Yang AW, Zhang AL, May BH, Xue CC. Sham control methods used in ear-acupuncture/ear-acupressure randomized controlled trials: a systematic review. J Altern Complement Med 2013; 20:147-61. [PMID: 24138333 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2013.0238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Ear-acupuncture/ear-acupressure (EAP) has been used for a range of health conditions with numerous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating its efficacy and safety. However, the design of sham interventions in these RCTs varied significantly. This study systematically reviewed RCTs on EAP for all clinical conditions involving a number of sham EAPs as a control intervention. The review is guided by the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions 5.1.0 and investigated the types and differences of sham EAP interventions. Four electronic English databases (The Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL®) and two Chinese databases (CQVIP, CNKI) were searched in December 2012 and 55 published RCTs comparing real and sham EAP for any clinical condition were included. Characteristics of participants, real and sham interventions, and outcomes were extracted. Four types of sham methods were identified. Among the 55 RCTs, 25 studies involved treatment on nonspecific ear acupoints as the sham method; seven studies used nonacupoints on the ear; nine studies selected placebo needles or placebo ear-acupressure on the same ear acupoints for the real treatment; 10 studies employed pseudo-intervention; and five studies combined two of the above methods to be the sham control. Other factors of treatment such as number of points, treatment duration, and frequency also varied greatly. Risk of bias assessment suggests that 32 RCTs were "high risk" in terms of participants blinding, and 45 RCTs were "high risk" in terms of personnel blinding. Meta-analysis was not conducted due to the high clinical heterogeneity across included studies. No relationship was found between the sham designs and efficacy outcomes, or between the sham types and dropout rate. No solid conclusion of which design is the most appropriate sham control of EAP could be drawn in this review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claire Shuiqing Zhang
- 1 Discipline of Chinese Medicine, School of Health Sciences, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|