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Zhao FY, Spencer SJ, Kennedy GA, Zheng Z, Conduit R, Zhang WJ, Xu P, Yue LP, Wang YM, Xu Y, Fu QQ, Ho YS. Acupuncture for primary insomnia: Effectiveness, safety, mechanisms and recommendations for clinical practice. Sleep Med Rev 2024; 74:101892. [PMID: 38232645 DOI: 10.1016/j.smrv.2023.101892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Primary insomnia (PI) is an increasing concern in modern society. Cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia is the first-line recommendation, yet limited availability and cost impede its widespread use. While hypnotics are frequently used, balancing their benefits against the risk of adverse events poses challenges. This review summarizes the clinical and preclinical evidence of acupuncture as a treatment for PI, discussing its potential mechanisms and role in reliving insomnia. Clinical trials show that acupuncture improves subjective sleep quality, fatigue, cognitive impairments, and emotional symptoms with minimal adverse events. It also positively impacts objective sleep processes, including prolonging total sleep time, improving sleep efficiency, reducing sleep onset latency and wake after sleep onset, and enhancing sleep architecture/structure, including increasing N3% and REM%, and decreasing N1%. However, methodological shortcomings in some trials diminish the overall quality of evidence. Animal studies suggest that acupuncture restores circadian rhythms in sleep-deprived rodents and improves their performance in behavioral tests, possibly mediated by various clinical variables and pathways. These may involve neurotransmitters, brain-derived neurotrophic factors, inflammatory cytokines, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, gut microbiota, and other cellular events. While the existing findings support acupuncture as a promising therapeutic strategy for PI, additional high-quality trials are required to validate its benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei-Yi Zhao
- Department of Nursing, School of International Medical Technology, Shanghai Sanda University, Shanghai, 201209, China; Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200071, China
| | - Sarah J Spencer
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia
| | - Gerard A Kennedy
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia; Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Federation University, Mount Helen, Victoria, Australia; Institute for Breathing and Sleep, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, 3084, Australia
| | - Zhen Zheng
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia
| | - Russell Conduit
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia
| | - Wen-Jing Zhang
- Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200071, China
| | - Peijie Xu
- School of Computing Technologies, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
| | - Li-Ping Yue
- Department of Nursing, School of International Medical Technology, Shanghai Sanda University, Shanghai, 201209, China
| | - Yan-Mei Wang
- Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200071, China
| | - Yan Xu
- Department of Nursing, School of International Medical Technology, Shanghai Sanda University, Shanghai, 201209, China.
| | - Qiang-Qiang Fu
- Yangpu Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200090, China.
| | - Yuen-Shan Ho
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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Xu M, Yang C, Nian T, Tian C, Zhou L, Wu Y, Li Y, Deng X, Li X, Yang K. Adverse effects associated with acupuncture therapies: An evidence mapping from 535 systematic reviews. Chin Med 2023; 18:38. [PMID: 37038228 PMCID: PMC10088157 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-023-00743-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Considering that physicians and patients widely use acupuncture, it is necessary to explore its adverse effects during treatment. Herein, an evidence map was generated based on published studies to identify acupuncture-induced adverse effects and assess their severity, with the overarching goal of providing references for safe and effective implementation. METHODS A comprehensive literature search was performed in four public databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of science, and the Cochrane Library) to identify relevant studies published up to 15th June 2022. In addition, relevant studies were explored in the Epistemonikos database and reference lists were retrieved as a supplement. A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews, Version 2 (AMSTAR-2) quality assessment tool was applied to determine the methodological quality of included systematic reviews (SRs) and/or meta-analysis (MAs), whereas Microsoft Excel 2019 tool was used for data extraction and coding. Heatmaps were generated to display disease type, countries of origin for the first authors, and the sample sizes of original studies. Moreover, bubble charts comprehensively presented intervention categories, adverse reaction types, and evidence levels. RESULTS A total of 535 SRs involving 33 adverse reactions were included. Among them, 22 studies were rated as high quality, 28 as moderate, 106 as low, and the rest were of critically-low quality. Numerous adverse effects were described in the studies, including syncope (86 SRs), organ or tissue injury (233 SRs), systemic reactions (113 SRs), infection (19 SRs), and other adverse events (373 SRs). Importantly, these adverse reactions were mainly associated with 19 acupuncture techniques, including electroacupuncture (n = 67), manual acupuncture (n = 47) and acupoint catgut embedding (n = 41). Furthermore, the 535 SRs described 23 diseases, among which symptoms, signs or clinical findings (83 SRs), mental, behavioral or neurodevelopmental disorders (67 SRs), and diseases of the nervous system (66 SRs) had the highest incidence. CONCLUSION This evidence mapping explores the adverse effects of acupuncture, showing that there are multiple types of adverse reactions to acupuncture, with milder symptoms. The methodological assessment revealed that most of the included studies were of low- or critically low-quality. Therefore, there is a need for future randomized controlled trials and SRs to comprehensively analyze acupuncture-related adverse events in order to provide reliable and credible evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Xu
- Health Technology Assessment Center/Evidence-Based Social Science Research Center, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, 199 Donggang West Road, Lanzhou, 730000, China
- Evidence-Based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, 199 Donggang West Road, Lanzhou, 730000, China
- Key Laboratory of Evidence Based Medicine and Knowledge Translation of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Chaoqun Yang
- Health Technology Assessment Center/Evidence-Based Social Science Research Center, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, 199 Donggang West Road, Lanzhou, 730000, China
- Evidence-Based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, 199 Donggang West Road, Lanzhou, 730000, China
- Key Laboratory of Evidence Based Medicine and Knowledge Translation of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Tao Nian
- Health Technology Assessment Center/Evidence-Based Social Science Research Center, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, 199 Donggang West Road, Lanzhou, 730000, China
- Evidence-Based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, 199 Donggang West Road, Lanzhou, 730000, China
- Key Laboratory of Evidence Based Medicine and Knowledge Translation of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Chen Tian
- Health Technology Assessment Center/Evidence-Based Social Science Research Center, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, 199 Donggang West Road, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Liying Zhou
- Health Technology Assessment Center/Evidence-Based Social Science Research Center, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, 199 Donggang West Road, Lanzhou, 730000, China
- Evidence-Based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, 199 Donggang West Road, Lanzhou, 730000, China
- Key Laboratory of Evidence Based Medicine and Knowledge Translation of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Yanan Wu
- Health Technology Assessment Center/Evidence-Based Social Science Research Center, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, 199 Donggang West Road, Lanzhou, 730000, China
- Evidence-Based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, 199 Donggang West Road, Lanzhou, 730000, China
- Key Laboratory of Evidence Based Medicine and Knowledge Translation of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Yanfei Li
- Evidence-Based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, 199 Donggang West Road, Lanzhou, 730000, China
- Key Laboratory of Evidence Based Medicine and Knowledge Translation of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Xinxin Deng
- Health Technology Assessment Center/Evidence-Based Social Science Research Center, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, 199 Donggang West Road, Lanzhou, 730000, China
- Evidence-Based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, 199 Donggang West Road, Lanzhou, 730000, China
- Key Laboratory of Evidence Based Medicine and Knowledge Translation of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Xiuxia Li
- Health Technology Assessment Center/Evidence-Based Social Science Research Center, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, 199 Donggang West Road, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
- Evidence-Based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, 199 Donggang West Road, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
- Key Laboratory of Evidence Based Medicine and Knowledge Translation of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
| | - Kehu Yang
- Health Technology Assessment Center/Evidence-Based Social Science Research Center, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, 199 Donggang West Road, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
- Evidence-Based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, 199 Donggang West Road, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
- Key Laboratory of Evidence Based Medicine and Knowledge Translation of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
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Li AR, Andrews L, Hilts A, Valdebran M. Efficacy of Acupuncture and Moxibustion in Alopecia: A Narrative Review. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:868079. [PMID: 35755043 PMCID: PMC9219404 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.868079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Acupuncture is the practice of applying needles to target specific pressures points in the body. Since originating in China, acupuncture has been practiced for thousands of years to treat numerous conditions including chronic pain and mood disorders. Alopecia is a common dermatologic condition associated with psychological distress and decreased quality of life. Although it remains underexplored in western medicine, recent evidence suggests that acupuncture may be efficacious in the treatment of alopecia. In this review, we discuss the available evidence describing the efficacy of acupuncture or moxibustion alone (ACU) and in combination with other traditional and alternative interventions (ACU + TRAD) for hair loss. Additionally, the proposed physiologic mechanisms, targeted acupuncture points, and the benefits and barriers to treatment will be further described. An exploratory search using PubMed, EMBASE and Scopus databases was performed for studies that evaluated the effect of acupuncture and moxibustion on alopecia. In these studies, both ACU and ACU + TRAD were efficacious for numerous etiologies of hair loss including alopecia areata, androgenetic alopecia, and seborrheic alopecia. Given their ability to modulate the immune system, as well as neuronal networks associated with emotional cognition, the most frequently targeted acupoints were ST 36, GV 20, and LR 3. The proposed mechanistic effect is dependent upon disease etiology and is theorized to be twofold: reduction of inflammation and decrease in testosterone levels. The limited side effect profile of acupuncture makes it an advantageous treatment option, however, factors including cost, time, limited access, and aversion to needles may serve as barriers to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andraia R Li
- Department of Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery, The Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Laura Andrews
- Department of Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery, The Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Alexis Hilts
- Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV, Las Vegas, NV, United States
| | - Manuel Valdebran
- Department of Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery, The Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, The Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
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4
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Effectiveness of Acupuncture for Scoliosis: A Systematic Review. JOURNAL OF ACUPUNCTURE RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.13045/jar.2021.00325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Scoliosis is a 3-dimensional change of the spine, presenting 10° above Cobb angle. Various acupuncture methods are being increasingly performed to correct scoliosis. However, no systematic review has been published. Therefore, we report on the effectiveness of acupuncture on mild scoliosis in this systematic review. We searched various databases for acupuncture treatment for scoliosis published before June 2021. The primary outcome was Cobb angle, and the secondary outcomes were patient-centered scores. Six studies were identified. RCTs that compared combination therapy with acupuncture, and other treatment methods and showed significant improvement in the Cobb angle, and effective rate, but, with low quality evidence. Acupuncture monotherapy resulted in significant improvement in the Cobb angle and had high heterogeneity compared with other treatment methods, but no significant improvement in the effective rate was observed, and the quality of evidence was low. Regardless of the type of scoliosis, acupuncture monotherapy or combination therapy with acupuncture showed significant improvement in the Cobb angle, and the quality of evidence was moderate. No serious adverse events were observed in the 6 studies reviewed. Acupuncture is considered safe, and it is more effective when performed with other conventional treatments.
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Fredy DM, Harpin D, Mihardja H. The role of acupuncture for myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) in interventional pain management. JOURNAL OF COMPLEMENTARY & INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 19:213-217. [PMID: 35179004 DOI: 10.1515/jcim-2021-0525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this literature review is to describe the role of acupuncture for myofascial pain syndrome in interventional pain management. CONTENT Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) can be found at all ages. Approximately 30.0-93.0% of patients with musculoskeletal pain have MPS. Unsuccessful treatment can lead to dysfunction, disability, and a cost burden. We conducted a search of studies published in Google Scholar and PubMed databases from 2016 to 2021. SUMMARY Acupuncture, combined with other therapies, is effective in reducing pain and improving physical function. Acupuncture can enhance endogenous opioids such as endorphins to relieve pain and enhance the healing process. OUTLOOK Acupuncture could be considered as one of nonpharmacological options in Interventional Pain Management for MPS. Interventions with acupuncture are safe and have minimal side effects when performed by a trained and competent practitioner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Marsha Fredy
- Department of Medical Acupuncture, RSUPN Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo, Jakarta, Indonesia.,Medical Acupuncture Specialist Program, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Darwin Harpin
- Medical Acupuncture Specialist Program, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia.,Universitas Indonesia Hospital, Depok, Indonesia
| | - Hasan Mihardja
- Department of Medical Acupuncture, RSUPN Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo, Jakarta, Indonesia.,Center for the Development and Application of Traditional Medicine of DKI Jakarta, Jakarta, Indonesia
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6
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Olson EA, Metzger AK, Mallory MJ, Mackey RM. Opioid-Induced Constipation and Acupuncture: A Case Discussion. J Pain Symptom Manage 2021; 62:876-880. [PMID: 33556492 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2021.01.135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Use of acupuncture for treatment of functional constipation is well studied; however, studies examining use of acupuncture for opioid-induced constipation are limited. CASE DESCRIPTION A 70-year-old woman with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma discovered after presentation to the emergency room with severe back pain. Pain management required use of opioids, escalating to effect. Hospital course was complicated by opioid-induced constipation causing abdominal pain, nausea, and ileus despite aggressive titration of stimulant and osmotic laxatives as well as administration of suppositories and enemas on multiple occasions. Prior to nasogastric tube placement for the ileus, the patient requested acupuncture treatment in attempt to relieve constipation. Shortly after acupuncture session, patient passed multiple stools with improvement in abdominal pain and nausea and avoidance of nasogastric tube. CONCLUSION Acupuncture for opioid-induced constipation may provide symptom relief through use of nonpharmacologic interventions; however, further studies are needed to determine the optimal therapeutic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A Olson
- General Internal Medicine, Center for Palliative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota.
| | - Abbey K Metzger
- General Internal Medicine, Center for Palliative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Molly J Mallory
- General Internal Medicine, Integrative Medicine and Health, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Regina M Mackey
- General Internal Medicine, Center for Palliative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
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7
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Zhao FY, Fu QQ, Spencer SJ, Kennedy GA, Conduit R, Zhang WJ, Zheng Z. Acupuncture: A Promising Approach for Comorbid Depression and Insomnia in Perimenopause. Nat Sci Sleep 2021; 13:1823-1863. [PMID: 34675729 PMCID: PMC8520448 DOI: 10.2147/nss.s332474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Comorbid depression and insomnia are ubiquitous mental complaints among women going through the perimenopausal stage of life and can result in major decline in quality of life. Antidepressive agents combined with/without hypnotics, and/or hormone therapy are currently the most common treatment for perimenopausal depression (PMD) and insomnia (PMI). Balancing the benefits of these pharmacotherapies against the risk of adverse events (AEs) is a difficult task for both clinicians and women. There has been a growing body of research regarding the utilization of acupuncture for treatment of PMD or PMI, whereas no studies of acupuncture for comorbid PMD and PMI have appeared. In this review, we summarize the clinical and preclinical evidence of acupuncture as a treatment for PMD or PMI, and then discuss the potential mechanisms involved and the role of acupuncture in helping women during this transition. Most clinical trials indicate that acupuncture ameliorates not only PMD/PMI but also climacteric symptoms with minimal AEs. It also regulates serum hormone levels. The reliability of trials is however limited due to methodological flaws in most studies. Rodent studies suggest that acupuncture prolongs total sleep time and reduces depression-like behavior in PMI and PMD models, respectively. These effects are possibly mediated through multiple mechanisms of action, including modulating sex hormones, neurotransmitters, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis/hypothalamic-pituitary-ovary axis, oxidative stress, signaling pathways, and other cellular events. In conclusion, acupuncture is a promising therapeutic strategy for comorbid depression and insomnia during perimenopause. Neuroendocrine modulation is likely to play a major role in mediating those effects. High-quality trials are required to further validate acupuncture's effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei-Yi Zhao
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia.,Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200071, People's Republic of China.,Department of Nursing, School of International Medical Technology, Shanghai Sanda University, Shanghai, 201209, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiang-Qiang Fu
- Yangpu Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200090, People's Republic of China
| | - Sarah J Spencer
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia.,ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale Biophotonics, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia
| | - Gerard A Kennedy
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia.,School of Science, Psychology and Sport, Federation University, Mount Helen, Victoria, Australia.,Institute for Breathing and Sleep, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, 3084, Australia
| | - Russell Conduit
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia
| | - Wen-Jing Zhang
- Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200071, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhen Zheng
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia
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Abstract
BACKGROUND In children, cerebral palsy (CP) is one of the most common causes of irreversible neurological sequelae. Acupotomy, a modernized acupuncture form combining the effects of microsurgery and conventional acupuncture, may show specific benefits in the treatment of CP, especially with respect to spasticity. The aim of this review was to evaluate the efficacy of acupotomy for CP. METHODS Eleven databases were comprehensively searched from their inception dates to November 27, 2018. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-RCTs evaluating acupotomy as a monotherapy or as adjunctive therapy to rehabilitation treatment for CP were included. The methodological quality of included studies was assessed using the risk of bias tool. The quality of evidence for each main outcome was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach. Meta-analysis was performed, and the pooled data were presented as mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence interval (CI) for continuous outcomes and as risk ratio (RR) with 95% CI for dichotomous outcomes. RESULTS Eight studies involving 530 participants were included. In 1 study, acupotomy was associated with significantly higher total effective rate (TER) compared with Bobath (P < .01). Acupotomy combined with rehabilitation was associated with significantly higher TER (RR 1.24, 95% CI 1.01-1.52, I = 77%) and gross motor function measure score (MD 12.62, 95% CI 11.75-13.49, I = 54%), and significantly lower muscle tone of gastrocnemius measured by the Ashworth scale or the modified Ashworth scale (MD -0.97, 95% CI -1.07 to -0.88, I = 0%) compared with rehabilitation alone. No studies reported the incidence of adverse events. The methodological quality of the included studies and quality of evidence for the main finding were generally low. CONCLUSION Current evidence shows that acupotomy as a monotherapy or as adjunctive therapy to rehabilitation treatment might have benefits in the treatment of CP. However, due to the small number of studies included, the lack of sample size, poor methodological qualities, and low quality of evidence, the findings of this review should be interpreted with caution. Larger and more rigorous, high-quality RCTs should be performed on this topic. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42018105891.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chan-Young Kwon
- Chung-Yeon Central Institute, Gwangju
- Department of Clinical Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University
| | - Boram Lee
- Department of Pediatrics of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University Korean Medicine Hospital at Gangdong, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyu Tae Chang
- Department of Clinical Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University
- Department of Pediatrics of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University Korean Medicine Hospital at Gangdong, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Schwartz ASK, Gross E, Geraedts K, Rauchfuss M, Wölfler MM, Häberlin F, von Orelli S, Eberhard M, Imesch P, Imthurn B, Leeners B. The use of home remedies and complementary health approaches in endometriosis. Reprod Biomed Online 2018; 38:260-271. [PMID: 30612955 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2018.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2018] [Revised: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Conventional treatments are often associated with adverse effects and endometriosis pain symptoms may reoccur despite treatment. Consequently, many women use complementary health approaches (CHA) and home remedies (HR) to relieve their pain. The aim of this study was to examine the frequency and the subjectively perceived efficacy of CHA/HR use by women affected by endometriosis. DESIGN Retrospective evaluation using medical charts and a questionnaire. Women recruited in hospitals and in self-help groups were asked about the use of 'topical heat', 'repose/relaxation', 'movement/massages', 'homeopathy/phytotherapy', 'acupuncture/traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)' and 'kinesiology/physiotherapy'. RESULTS From a total of 574 women with a confirmed diagnosis of endometriosis, 359 (62.5%) applied some form of CHA/HR. Women suffering from fatiguing disease symptoms more often selected alternative therapies (odds ratio [OR] 3.14, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.39-7.11, P = 0.006) compared with women without these characteristics. Furthermore, women dissatisfied with healthcare provided by their treating physician, more frequently (OR 2.30, 95% CI 1.19-4.45, P = 0.013) chose the aforementioned alternative strategies. CONCLUSION As conventional therapies may not be sufficiently effective, women's needs should be closely examined, and individual treatment options should be discussed and initiated by clinicians to provide the best comprehensive treatment possible for endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Sabrina Kohl Schwartz
- University Hospital Zürich, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zürich 8910, Switzerland; University Women's Hospital, Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Bern 3010, Switzerland
| | - Elvira Gross
- University Hospital Zürich, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zürich 8910, Switzerland
| | - Kirsten Geraedts
- University Hospital Zürich, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zürich 8910, Switzerland
| | - Martina Rauchfuss
- Charité Berlin, University Hospital, Department of Psychosomatics, Berlin 10117, Germany
| | - Monika Maria Wölfler
- University Hospital Graz, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Graz 8036, Austria
| | - Felix Häberlin
- Canton Hospital St. Gallen, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, St. Gallen 9007, Switzerland
| | - Stephanie von Orelli
- Triemli Hospital Zürich, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Zürich 8036, Switzerland
| | - Markus Eberhard
- Canton Hospital Schaffhausen, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Schaffhausen 8208, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Imesch
- University Hospital Zürich, Department of Gynecology, Zürich 8910, Switzerland
| | - Bruno Imthurn
- University Hospital Zürich, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zürich 8910, Switzerland
| | - Brigitte Leeners
- University Hospital Zürich, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zürich 8910, Switzerland.
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Berkovitz S, Cummings M, Perrin C, Ito R. High Volume Acupuncture Clinic (Hvac) for Chronic Knee Pain – Audit of a Possible Model for Delivery of Acupuncture in the National Health Service. Acupunct Med 2018; 26:46-50. [DOI: 10.1136/aim.26.1.46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Recent research has established the efficacy, effectiveness and cost effectiveness of acupuncture for some forms of chronic musculoskeletal pain. However, there are practical problems with delivery which currently prevent its large scale implementation in the National Health Service. We have developed a delivery model at our hospital, a ‘high volume’ acupuncture clinic (HVAC) in which patients are treated in a group setting for single conditions using standardised or semi-standardised electroacupuncture protocols by practitioners with basic training. We discuss our experiences using this model for chronic knee pain and present an outcome audit for the first 77 patients, demonstrating satisfactory initial (eight week) clinical results. Longer term (one year) data are currently being collected and the model should next be tested in primary care to confirm its feasibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saul Berkovitz
- Royal London, Homeopathic Hospital University College London Hospitals NHS Trust London, UK
| | - Mike Cummings
- Royal London, Homeopathic Hospital University College London Hospitals NHS Trust London, UK
| | - Chris Perrin
- Royal London, Homeopathic Hospital University College London Hospitals NHS Trust London, UK
| | - Rieko Ito
- Royal London, Homeopathic Hospital University College London Hospitals NHS Trust London, UK
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11
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White A, Kawakita K. The Evidence on Acupuncture for Knee Osteoarthritis – Editorial Summary on the Implications for Health Policy. Acupunct Med 2018. [DOI: 10.1136/aim.24.suppl.71] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Decisions on whether a health service should provide a particular treatment are based on the evidence on three questions: 1) whether the treatment can work, ie it is biologically active; 2) whether the treatment is safe and effective in daily practice; and 3) whether it is economically worthwhile. Evidence presented at the Kyoto conference shows that acupuncture for osteoarthritis of the knee has a biological effect, has a large clinical effect in practice, has negligible risk, and has a cost effectiveness which is well within the usual acceptable limit. On the present evidence, acupuncture is likely to offer an alternative to treatment with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kenji Kawakita
- Department of Physiology Meiji University of Oriental Medicine Japan
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Bishop FL, Salmon C. Advertising, Expectations and Informed Consent: The Contents and Functions of Acupuncture Leaflets. Acupunct Med 2018; 31:351-7. [DOI: 10.1136/acupmed-2013-010416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Objective To evaluate the content of patient information leaflets about acupuncture. Methods 401 patient information leaflets were obtained from practising UK acupuncturists and subjected to content and thematic analysis. Results 59% of included leaflets were from NHS physiotherapists. Almost all the leaflets defined acupuncture and the majority explained how it might work, described the treatment process and placed it in a historical context. Most described possible benefits and risks of acupuncture and discussed contraindications and safety. Just under a third of leaflets (120, 30%) suggested conditions that might be helped by acupuncture, most commonly musculoskeletal pain, arthritis and injuries. By emphasising differences between individuals in acupuncture treatments and responsiveness, the leaflets fostered hope for positive effects without making any guarantees. Conclusions Information leaflets are broadly consistent with the evidence for acupuncture, but some claims are inconsistent with official advice from advertising regulators. An ethically sound, scientifically grounded and psychologically effective leaflet should accurately convey both benefits and risks of treatment, optimise patients’ expectations and allay concerns about needling. This study suggests that acupuncture leaflets might achieve these multiple functions but care should be taken to ensure adequate coverage of risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicity L Bishop
- Centre for Applications of Health Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Cathy Salmon
- Centre for Applications of Health Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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Dascanio VC. Acupuncture in Physiotherapy: A Contemporary Uk Perspective. Acupunct Med 2018; 33:442-4. [DOI: 10.1136/acupmed-2015-010977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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14
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WANG F, GANG WJ, WU XD, DONG GF, WANG X, YANG GN, HAN YJ, WANG YX, ZHAO H. Understanding the concept of safety in acupuncture international standardization: a context-based interpretation. WORLD JOURNAL OF ACUPUNCTURE-MOXIBUSTION 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/s1003-5257(18)30008-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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15
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Bishop FL, Greville-Harris M, Bostock J, Din A, Graham CA, Lewith G, Liossi C, O'Riordan T, Ryves R, White P, Yardley L. Using psychological theory and qualitative methods to develop a new evidence-based website about acupuncture for back pain. Eur J Integr Med 2016; 8:384-393. [PMID: 27807469 PMCID: PMC5078494 DOI: 10.1016/j.eujim.2016.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Potential acupuncture patients seek out information about acupuncture from various sources including websites, many of which are unreliable. We aimed to create an informative, scientifically accurate and engaging website to educate patients about acupuncture for back pain and modify their beliefs in a way that might enhance its clinical effects. METHODS We used psychological theory and techniques to design an evidence-based website, incorporating multimedia elements. We conducted qualitative "think aloud" audio-recorded interviews to elicit user views of the website. A convenience sample of ten participants (4 male; aged 21-64 years from the local community) looked at the website in the presence of a researcher and spoke their thoughts out loud. Comments were categorised by topic. RESULTS The website comprises 11 main pages and addresses key topics of interest to potential acupuncture patients, including beneficial and adverse effects, mechanisms of action, safety, practicalities, and patients' experiences of acupuncture. It provides information through text, evidence summaries and audio-clips of four patients' stories and two acupuncturists' descriptions of their practice, and three short films. Evidence from the think aloud study was used to identify opportunities to make the website more informative, engaging, and user-friendly. CONCLUSIONS Using a combination of psychological theory and qualitative interviews enabled us to produce a user-friendly, evidence-based website that is likely to change patients' beliefs about acupuncture for back pain. Before using the website in clinical settings it is necessary to test its effects on key outcomes including patients' beliefs and capacity for making informed choices about acupuncture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicity L Bishop
- Centre for Applications of Health Psychology, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, Building 44 Highfield Campus, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
| | - Maddy Greville-Harris
- Centre for Applications of Health Psychology, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, Building 44 Highfield Campus, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
| | - Jennifer Bostock
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Amy Din
- Centre for Innovation & Leadership in Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield Campus, SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
| | - Cynthia A Graham
- Centre for Applications of Health Psychology, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, Building 44 Highfield Campus, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
| | - George Lewith
- Primary Care and Population Sciences, Aldermoor Health Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton, SO16 5ST, United Kingdom
| | - Christina Liossi
- Centre for Applications of Health Psychology, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, Building 44 Highfield Campus, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
| | - Tim O'Riordan
- Zemedia, Bitterne Park, Southampton, SO18 1NH, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Ryves
- Primary Care and Population Sciences, Aldermoor Health Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton, SO16 5ST, United Kingdom
| | - Peter White
- Centre for Innovation & Leadership in Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield Campus, SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
| | - Lucy Yardley
- Centre for Applications of Health Psychology, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, Building 44 Highfield Campus, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
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Shergis JL, Ni X, Jackson ML, Zhang AL, Guo X, Li Y, Lu C, Xue CC. A systematic review of acupuncture for sleep quality in people with insomnia. Complement Ther Med 2016; 26:11-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2016.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2015] [Revised: 01/22/2016] [Accepted: 02/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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Kim JE, Seo BK, Choi JB, Kim HJ, Kim TH, Lee MH, Kang KW, Kim JH, Shin KM, Lee S, Jung SY, Kim AR, Shin MS, Jung HJ, Park HJ, Kim SP, Baek YH, Hong KE, Choi SM. Acupuncture for chronic fatigue syndrome and idiopathic chronic fatigue: a multicenter, nonblinded, randomized controlled trial. Trials 2015. [PMID: 26211002 PMCID: PMC4515016 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-015-0857-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The causes of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and idiopathic chronic fatigue (ICF) are not clearly known, and there are no definitive treatments for them. Therefore, patients with CFS and ICF are interested in Oriental medicine or complementary and alternative medicine. For this reason, the effectiveness of complementary and alternative treatments should be verified. We investigated the effectiveness of two forms of acupuncture added to usual care for CFS and ICF compared to usual care alone. Methods A three-arm parallel, non-blinded, randomized controlled trial was performed in four hospitals. We divided 150 participants into treatment and control groups at the same ratio. The treatment groups (Group A, body acupuncture; Group B, Sa-am acupuncture) received 10 sessions for 4 weeks. The control group (Group C) continued usual care alone. The primary outcome was the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) at 5 weeks after randomization. Secondary outcomes were the FSS at 13 weeks and a short form of the Stress Response Inventory (SRI), the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), and the EuroQol-5 Dimension (EQ-5D) at 5 and 13 weeks. Results Group A showed significantly lower FSS scores than Group C at 5 weeks (P = 0.023). SRI scores were significantly lower in the treatment groups than in the control group at 5 (Group A, P = 0.032; B, P <0.001) and 13 weeks (Group A, P = 0.037; B, P <0.001). Group B showed significantly lower BDI scores than Group C at 13 weeks (P = 0.007). NRS scores from the treatment groups were significantly reduced compared to control at 5 (Group A and B, P <0.001) and 13 weeks (Group A, P = 0.011; B, P = 0.002). Conclusions Body acupuncture for 4 weeks in addition to usual care may help improve fatigue in CFS and ICF patients. Trial registration Clinical Research Information Service (CRIS) KCT0000508; Registered on 12 August 2012. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13063-015-0857-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung-Eun Kim
- Acupuncture, Moxibustion & Meridian Research Group, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea.
| | - Byung-Kwan Seo
- Department of Acupuncture & Moxibustion, Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong, Seoul, South Korea.
| | - Jin-Bong Choi
- Department of Oriental Rehabilitation Medicine, Gwangju Oriental Hospital of Dongshin University, Gwangju, South Korea.
| | - Hyeong-Jun Kim
- Department of Oriental Gynecology, Jecheon Oriental Hospital of Semyung University, Jecheon, South Korea.
| | - Tae-Hun Kim
- Acupuncture, Moxibustion & Meridian Research Group, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea. .,College of Korean Medicine, Gachon University, Seongnam, South Korea.
| | - Min-Hee Lee
- Acupuncture, Moxibustion & Meridian Research Group, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea.
| | - Kyung-Won Kang
- Acupuncture, Moxibustion & Meridian Research Group, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea.
| | - Joo-Hee Kim
- Acupuncture, Moxibustion & Meridian Research Group, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea.
| | - Kyung-Min Shin
- Acupuncture, Moxibustion & Meridian Research Group, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea.
| | - Seunghoon Lee
- Acupuncture, Moxibustion & Meridian Research Group, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea. .,Department of Acupuncture & Moxibustion, Kyung Hee University Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea.
| | - So-Young Jung
- Acupuncture, Moxibustion & Meridian Research Group, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea.
| | - Ae-Ran Kim
- Acupuncture, Moxibustion & Meridian Research Group, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea.
| | - Mi-Suk Shin
- Acupuncture, Moxibustion & Meridian Research Group, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea.
| | - Hee-Jung Jung
- Acupuncture, Moxibustion & Meridian Research Group, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea.
| | - Hyo-Ju Park
- Acupuncture, Moxibustion & Meridian Research Group, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea.
| | - Sung-Phil Kim
- Acupuncture, Moxibustion & Meridian Research Group, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea.
| | - Yong-Hyeon Baek
- Department of Acupuncture & Moxibustion, Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong, Seoul, South Korea.
| | - Kwon-Eui Hong
- Department of Acupuncture & Moxibustion, Daejeon Oriental Hospital of Daejeon University, Daejeon, South Korea. .,Department of Korean Medicine, Nurije Korean Medical Clinic, Daejeon, South Korea.
| | - Sun-Mi Choi
- Acupuncture, Moxibustion & Meridian Research Group, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea.
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Park SJ, Jin M, Jong-Cheon J, Young-Mi K. Assessment of Factors Associated with the Safety Depth of GV15 Yamen: Factors Associated with the Safety Depth of GV15. J Pharmacopuncture 2015; 17:70-3. [PMID: 25780692 PMCID: PMC4331983 DOI: 10.3831/kpi.2014.17.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2013] [Accepted: 01/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Yamen is the fifteenth acupoint of the Governor Vessel Meridian (GV15). It is anatomically close to the medulla oblongata, so finding the safety depth of the acupoint is very important. However, few studies on the safety depth of GV15 have been done. Methods: This study tried to measure the safety depth of GV15 by using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans and to analyze the factors affecting the safety depth through multiple regression analyses. This study was carried out for patients who had a brain MRI scan while visiting Jeonju Wonkwang Hospital, Korea. The shortest distance between the glabella and the occipital protuberance (DGO), the horizontal distance between the glabella and the back of the head (DGB) and the dangerous depth (DD) were measured from the sagittal views of the MRI images. The DD is the horizontal distance from the skin’s surface at GV15 to the spinal dura mater. Results: The model suggested that the safety depth (SD) was significantly associated with gender (β= 0.474, P< 0.0001), DGO (β= 0.272, P= 0.027), and BMI (β= 0.249, P= 0.005) and the combination of three variables can explain the SD, with R2= 0.571 (Table3). A longer SD was associated with males and with greater BMI and DGO. Conclusion: This study suggests that gender, BMI and DGO may be important factors when the SD of GV15 is considered clinically through a multiple regression analysis of GV15.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soo-Jung Park
- Department of Sasang Constitutional Medicine, Wonkwang University Jeonju Korean Medicine Hospital, Jeonju, Korea
| | - Ming Jin
- Department of Sasang Constitutional Medicine, Wonkwang University College of Korean Medicine, Iksan, Korea
| | - Joo Jong-Cheon
- Department of Sasang Constitutional Medicine, Wonkwang University Jeonju Korean Medicine Hospital, Jeonju, Korea ; Department of Sasang Constitutional Medicine, Wonkwang University College of Korean Medicine, Iksan, Korea
| | - Kwon Young-Mi
- Department of Radiology, Wonkwang University College of Korean Medicine, Iksan, Korea
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Zhang Y, Fu Y, Han F, Kuang H, Hu M, Wu X. The effect of complementary and alternative medicine on subfertile women with in vitro fertilization. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2014; 2014:419425. [PMID: 24527047 PMCID: PMC3914344 DOI: 10.1155/2014/419425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2013] [Revised: 12/13/2013] [Accepted: 12/15/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
About 10-15% of couples have difficulty conceiving at some point in their reproductive lives and thus have to seek specialist fertility care. One of the most commonly used treatment options is in vitro fertilization (IVF) and its related expansions. Despite many recent technological advances, the average IVF live birth rate per single initiated cycle is still only 30%. Consequently, there is a need to find new therapies to promote the efficiency of the procedure. Many patients have turned to complementary and alternative medical (CAM) treatments as an adjuvant therapy to improve their chances of success when they undergo IVF treatment. At present, several CAM methods have been used in infertile couples with IVF, which has achieved obvious effects. However, biologically plausible mechanisms of the action of CAM for IVF have not been systematically reviewed. This review briefly summarizes the current progress of the impact of CAM on the outcomes of IVF and introduces the mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuehui Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
- Center for Post-Doctoral Studies, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Yiman Fu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Fengjuan Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Hongying Kuang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Min Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Xiaoke Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
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McCutcheon L, Yelland M. Iatrogenic pneumothorax: safety concerns when using acupuncture or dry needling in the thoracic region. PHYSICAL THERAPY REVIEWS 2013. [DOI: 10.1179/1743288x11y.0000000012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
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Mikashima Y, Takagi T, Tomatsu T, Horikoshi M, Ikari K, Momohara S. Efficacy of acupuncture during post-acute phase of rehabilitation after total knee arthroplasty. J TRADIT CHIN MED 2013; 32:545-8. [PMID: 23427386 DOI: 10.1016/s0254-6272(13)60068-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to determine whether acupuncture is effective in reducing pain and swelling around the knee and improving range of motion (ROM) during the post-acute phase of rehabilitation after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). METHODS Following TKA, 80 knees in 80 patients were randomly assigned to either an acupuncture treatment group (Group A) or a control group (Group C). In Group A, the complementary treatment of acupuncture was performed three times/week from postoperative day 7 until postoperative day 21. Outcome measures were: i) pain as assessed by a visual analog scale; ii) reduction of swelling around the knee as indicated by its circumference at the center of the patella; and iii) ROM of the affected knee. RESULTS Group A patients had significantly reduced pain and swelling around the knees and earlier recovery of ROM than did those in Group C. CONCLUSION Acupuncture provides effective treatment during the post-acute phase of rehabilitation after TKA with respect to pain relief, reduction of swelling around the knee, and early recovery of ROM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshinori Mikashima
- Department of Orthopaedics, Takagi Hospital, Imadera 5-18-19, Oume, Tokyo 198-0021, Japan.
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Robinson TW. Western acupuncture in a NHS general practice: anonymized 3-year patient feedback survey. J Altern Complement Med 2012; 18:555-60. [PMID: 22784343 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2010.0398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to observe the response to Western acupuncture performed in a National Health Service (NHS) general practice. Outcomes, patient experience, impact on conventional therapies, and appropriateness of acupuncture in general practice were assessed. DESIGN An explanatory letter and questionnaire were sent to every patient in a 3-partner rural general practice regarding the acupuncture treatment they had received from the author over a period of 3 years. Completed questionnaires were returned anonymously to the Practice Manager to be collated. RESULTS There were 194 surveys were posted; 71% were completed and returned to the Practice Manager. Demographics of patients treated with acupuncture demonstrate that it was administered to patients of all age groups, with the majority on the 40-80-year age span, and female-to-male ratio of 64%:36%, respectively. Following the course of acupuncture, 75% of patients surveyed noted an improvement in their presenting condition; 24% noted no change. Those who benefited from the treatment reported the improvement as complete (26%) or major (38%). Seventy-two percent (72%) of patients judged their "quality of life" to be improved. Sixty-nine percent (69%) of patients stated a reduction or cessation of painkillers and/or anti-inflammatory drugs. Fifty-seven percent (57%) thought that referral to hospital specialist or physiotherapist was avoided as a result of the acupuncture treatment. Twenty-three percent (23%) of patients found acupuncture to be painful; of those, 60% said the pain was only mild. Seventy-two percent (72%) of patients were treated within 1 week of being seen by the general practitioner (GP); the majority (81%) of patients had between one and three treatments. Patient opinion on interval time between GP consultation and treatment, as well as appropriateness of acupuncture in the general practice setting, was extremely favorable. CONCLUSIONS This survey demonstrates the application of Western acupuncture within a NHS general practice administered by an individual GP. The patients' response scores from an anonymized questionnaire showed beneficial outcomes from acupuncture; patients also perceived that the treatment negated secondary care referral and reduction or cessation of pain-relieving medication.
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He W, Zhao X, Li Y, Xi Q, Guo Y. Adverse events following acupuncture: a systematic review of the Chinese literature for the years 1956-2010. J Altern Complement Med 2012; 18:892-901. [PMID: 22967282 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2011.0825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to make non-Chinese readers better informed about the current safety situation of acupuncture in China. METHODS Four (4) major Chinese comprehensive databases were searched: Chinese Journal Full-text Database (1949-2010), China Biomedical Literature Database (1978-2010), Chinese Technology Journal Database (1989-2010), and Wanfang (1998-2010). Case reports of adverse events related to acupuncture therapy were included. Literature reviews, case-control study, translations, duplicate literatures in various databases, and duplicate published articles with duplicate data were excluded. RESULTS One hundred and sixty-seven (167) articles were included with 1038 cases, among which 35 patients died. The most frequent adverse events were syncope (468 cases), pneumothorax (307 cases), and subarachnoid hemorrhage (64 cases). CONCLUSIONS Acupuncture-related adverse events were mainly caused by mental tension of the patient, improper operation by the doctor, and incompleteness of sterilization. Most of them can be avoided by standardizing teaching and clinical practices. Making the corresponding safety standards can greatly lower the risk of adverse events and protect patient safety to the greatest extent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenju He
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion College, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
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Jung D, Lee S, Hong S. Effects of acupuncture and moxibustion in a mouse model of allergic rhinitis. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2012; 146:19-25. [PMID: 22020787 DOI: 10.1177/0194599811421736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2011] [Accepted: 08/08/2011] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In this study, the authors examined the effects of acupuncture and moxibustion on the expression of various inflammatory cells and mediators in the nasal mucosa of an allergic rhinitis (AR) animal model. STUDY DESIGN Randomized controlled animal study. SETTING Animal laboratory in a Dongguk University. SUBJECTS AND METHODS Twenty-eight BALB/c mice were divided into 4 groups: control, levocetirizine (Lcz), moxibustion (Mox), and acupuncture (Acu). To induce AR, mice were intraperitoneally sensitized to ovalbumin (OVA) and challenged with intranasal OVA. At 7 days following the final sensitization and every day for a further 7 days, the Lcz group was orally administered levocetirizine (50 mg/kg), the Mox group was subjected to 5 seconds of moxibustion stimulation at the juncture of the medial canthus and nostril, and the Acu group was subjected to 30 seconds of acupuncture stimuli at the same point. The authors measured the degree of positive reaction to substance P, STAT6, nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB), and iNOS via immunohistochemical staining of the nasal mucosa. RESULTS The degree of positive reaction to substance P, STAT6, NFκB, and iNOS was markedly decreased in the treatment groups compared to that in the control group. Notably, the above indices were most significantly decreased in the Acu group, followed by the Mox group and then the Lcz group (P = .000). CONCLUSION In an allergic rhinitis animal model, acupuncture and moxibustion are shown to exhibit an antiallergic effect and exert their effects by reducing the expression of substance P, STAT6, NFκB, and iNOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dallim Jung
- Department of Oriental Medicine, The Graduate School of Dongguk University, Gyeongju, Republic of Korea
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Ernst E, Lee MS, Choi TY. Acupuncture: does it alleviate pain and are there serious risks? A review of reviews. Pain 2011; 152:755-764. [PMID: 21440191 DOI: 10.1016/j.pain.2010.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2010] [Revised: 11/01/2010] [Accepted: 11/03/2010] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Acupuncture is commonly used for pain control, but doubts about its effectiveness and safety remain. This review was aimed at critically evaluating systematic reviews of acupuncture as a treatment of pain and at summarizing reports of serious adverse effects published since 2000. Literature searches were carried out in 11 databases without language restrictions. Systematic reviews were considered for the evaluation of effectiveness and case series or case reports for summarizing adverse events. Data were extracted according to predefined criteria. Fifty-seven systematic reviews met the inclusion criteria. Four were of excellent methodological quality. Numerous contradictions and caveats emerged. Unanimously positive conclusions from more than one high-quality systematic review existed only for neck pain. Ninety-five cases of severe adverse effects including 5 fatalities were included. Pneumothorax and infections were the most frequently reported adverse effects. In conclusion, numerous systematic reviews have generated little truly convincing evidence that acupuncture is effective in reducing pain. Serious adverse effects continue to be reported. Numerous reviews have produced little convincing evidence that acupuncture is effective in reducing pain. Serious adverse events, including deaths, continue to be reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Ernst
- Complementary Medicine, Peninsula Medical School, Universities of Exeter & Plymouth, Exeter, UK Division of Standard Research, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea
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Usichenko TI, Pavlovic D, Anders E. Certain doubts and uncertain fears of acupuncture. Pain 2011; 152:2182-2183. [PMID: 21680093 DOI: 10.1016/j.pain.2011.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2011] [Accepted: 05/11/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Taras I Usichenko
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Ernst Moritz Arndt University, Greifswald, Germany Department of Pediatric Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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McDowell JM, Johnson GM, Bradnam LV. Towards a neurophysiological mechanisms-based classification of adverse reactions to acupuncture. PHYSICAL THERAPY REVIEWS 2011. [DOI: 10.1179/1743288x11y.0000000008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Abstract
Research in complementary and alternative veterinary medicine (CAVM) has increased dramatically in recent years. Acupuncture represents the most commonly practiced and extensively researched of all the CAVM modalities. Acupuncture is considered a valid therapeutic mode of treatment that can be integrated into Western veterinary medicine for the treatment of large, small, and zoological companion animal patients, especially in the area of analgesia. This article is intended to provide a guide for the zoological companion animal practitioner to gain a basic understanding of acupuncture and its potential for use in the zoological companion animal patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilyn A Koski
- Companion Avian and Exotic Pet Medicine Wellness Service, University of California, Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616-8747, USA.
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Is acupuncture in addition to conventional medicine effective as pain treatment for endometriosis? Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2010; 153:90-3. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2010.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2009] [Revised: 06/24/2010] [Accepted: 06/28/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Rickards LD. Therapeutic needling in osteopathic practice: An evidence-informed perspective. INT J OSTEOPATH MED 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijosm.2009.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Lee CH, Hyun JK, Lee SJ. Isolated Median Sensory Neuropathy After Acupuncture. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2008; 89:2379-81. [DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2008.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2008] [Revised: 05/30/2008] [Accepted: 06/10/2008] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Freedman J, Richardson M. Setting up an acupuncture knee clinic under Practice Based Commissioning. Acupunct Med 2008; 26:183-7. [PMID: 18818564 DOI: 10.1136/aim.26.3.183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
This paper outlines the setting up of a new service in primary care offering acupuncture to patients with severe osteoarthritis of the knee. The high volume clinic is funded under the Practice Based Commissioning initiative and is the first of its type in the UK. It appears to offer a model for similar services elsewhere.
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