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Cao W, Wang L, Hou TH, Shi YZ, Zheng QH, Zheng H, Zou ZH, Qin D, Yang Q, Chen SJ, Wang HY, Xiao XJ, Li Y. Disease-Related Factors Associated with Acupuncture Response in Patients with Chronic Tension-Type Headache: A Secondary Analysis of A Randomized Controlled Trial. Chin J Integr Med 2024; 30:684-691. [PMID: 38206534 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-023-3615-2] [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] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the demographic and disease-related factors associated with acupuncture response in patients with chronic tension-type headache (CTTH). METHODS Using data from a randomized clinical trial (218 cases) consisting of 4 weeks of baseline assessment, 8 weeks of treatment, and 24 weeks of follow-up, participants were regrouped into responders (at least a 50% reduction in monthly headache days at week 16 compared with baseline) and non-responders. Twenty-three demographic and disease-related factors associated with acupuncture response in 183 participants were analyzed by multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS One hundred and nineteen (65.0%) participants were classified as responders. Four factors were significantly independently associated with acupuncture response, including treatment assignment, headache intensity at baseline, and 2 domains [general health (GH) and social functioning (SF)] from the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey quality of life questionnaire. Treatment assignment was associated with non-response: participants receiving true acupuncture were 3-time more likely to achieve a CTTH response than those receiving superficial acupuncture [odds ratio (OR) 0.322, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.162 to 0.625, P=0.001]. Compared with patients with mild-intensity headache, patients with moderate-intensity headache were twice as likely to respond to acupuncture (OR 2.001, 95% CI 1.020 to 4.011, P=0.046). The likelihood of non-response increased by 4.5% with each unit increase in the GH grade (OR 0.955, 95% CI 0.917 to 0.993, P=0.024) while decreased by 3.8% with each unit increase in the SF grade (OR 1.038, 95% CI 1.009 to 1.069, P=0.011). CONCLUSIONS Greater headache intensity, lower GH score, and higher SF score were associated with better acupuncture responses in CTTH patients. These 3 factors require independent validation as predictors of acupuncture effectiveness in CTTH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Cao
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610000, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610000, China
| | - Ting-Hui Hou
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610000, China
| | - Yun-Zhou Shi
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610000, China
| | - Qian-Hua Zheng
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610000, China
| | - Hui Zheng
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610000, China
| | - Zi-Hao Zou
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610000, China
| | - Di Qin
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610000, China
| | - Qian Yang
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610000, China
| | - Si-Jue Chen
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610000, China
| | - Hai-Yan Wang
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610000, China
| | - Xian-Jun Xiao
- Acupuncture and Moxibustion School of Health Preservation and Rehabilitation, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610000, China
| | - Ying Li
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610000, China.
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Wang XZ, Liu CZ, Wang LQ, Qu ZC, Cao Y, Yan SY, Yang JW, Tu JF. Acupuncture for response and complete pain relief time of acute renal colic: Secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial. Integr Med Res 2024; 13:101021. [PMID: 38379605 PMCID: PMC10876610 DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2024.101021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The integration of acupuncture with intramuscular injection of diclofenac sodium can expedite the onset of analgesia in treating acute renal colic caused by urolithiasis. However, it remains unclear whether acupuncture can accelerate pain relief constantly until complete remission. This study aimed to explore the extent to which acupuncture can expedite the onset time of response or complete pain relief in treating acute renal colic, and the predictive value of patient characteristics for treatment efficacy. Methods This secondary analysis utilized data from a prior randomized controlled trial. Eighty patients with acute renal colic were randomly assigned 1:1 to the acupuncture group or the sham acupuncture group. After intramuscular injection of diclofenac sodium, acupuncture or sham acupuncture was delivered to patients. The outcomes included time to response (at least a 50 % reduction in pain) and complete pain relief. Between-group comparison under the 2 events was estimated by Kaplan-Meier methodology. Subgroup analysis was performed utilizing the Cox proportional hazards model. Results The median response time and complete pain relief time in the acupuncture group were lower than those in the sham acupuncture group (5 vs 30 min, Log Rank P < 0.001; 20 min vs not observed, Log Rank P < 0.001, respectively). Hazard Ratios (HRs) for response across all subgroups favored the acupuncture group. All HRs for complete pain relief favored acupuncture, expect large stone and moderate pain at baseline. No interaction was found in either event. Conclusion Acupuncture can accelerate the response time and complete pain relief time for patients with acute renal colic, with the efficacy universally. Trial registration This study has been registered at Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR1900025202.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Zhou Wang
- International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Cun-Zhi Liu
- International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Li-Qiong Wang
- International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zhi-Cheng Qu
- Emergency Department, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Cao
- Emergency Department, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Shi-Yan Yan
- International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jing-Wen Yang
- International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jian-Feng Tu
- International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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Kicherova OA, Klimov GJ, Reikhert LI, Skrjabin EG. [Features of pain syndrome in vertebrogenic pathology in women]. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova 2024; 124:14-21. [PMID: 38884425 DOI: 10.17116/jnevro202412405114] [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] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Pain syndrome is one of the important problems faced by women, and its treatment requires an integrated approach, taking into account the individual characteristics of the female body. Currently, several hypotheses have been formulated to explain sex differences in the perception of pain, but they all have a number of contradictions. It has been established that pain syndrome occurs more often in women than in men and its prevalence increases with age. The characteristics of pain syndrome in women are based on hormonal fluctuations during menstruation, changes associated with pregnancy, menopause, anatomical aspects, as well as psycho-social factors. An analysis of studies of non-drug methods of treating vertebrogenic pain syndrome (acupuncture, manual therapy, physical methods) is presented from the point of view of sex differences in their effectiveness. In female patients, the effectiveness of such therapy is shown to be generally higher than in men, and the percentage of pain relapses is lower. Also, women are more likely than men to use methods to prevent chronic pain syndrome. The features of vertebrogenic pain syndrome during pregnancy, as well as the effectiveness of medical and surgical treatment methods in patients of both sexes, are separately considered. Thus, taking into account the individual characteristics of vertebrogenic pain syndrome and its response to various treatment methods in women contributes to the development of effective comprehensive rehabilitation programs for this category of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- O A Kicherova
- Tyumen State Medical University, Tyumen Russi, Tyumen State Medical University, Tyumen Russia
| | - G Ju Klimov
- Tyumen State Medical University, Tyumen Russi, Tyumen State Medical University, Tyumen Russia
| | - L I Reikhert
- Tyumen State Medical University, Tyumen Russi, Tyumen State Medical University, Tyumen Russia
| | - E G Skrjabin
- Tyumen State Medical University, Tyumen Russi, Tyumen State Medical University, Tyumen Russia
- Regional Clinical Hospital No. 2, Tyumen, Russia
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Gao S, Sun Y, Shi H, Fang J, Liu Z. Efficacy and Safety of Acupuncture for Cyclic Mastalgia: Study Protocol for a Randomized, Sham-Controlled Trial. Int J Womens Health 2023; 15:845-855. [PMID: 37275513 PMCID: PMC10237189 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s410000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Cyclic mastalgia is prevalent among women and negatively impairs their daily life and work. There is still a lack of effective therapies for mastalgia, and acupuncture may be a promising method. We design this multicenter randomized trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of acupuncture on cyclic mastalgia. Study Design and methods Sixty participants with moderate-to-severe cyclic breast pain (with a duration of 5-21 days and the worst pain scoring 5 points or more on Numerical Rating Scale [NRS]) will be recruited at three hospitals in China. They will be randomly assigned to acupuncture group or sham-acupuncture group at 1:1 ratio to receive 16-session treatment during 3 consecutive menstrual cycles, and follow-up for 6 menstrual cycles after treatment. The primary outcome is the change from baseline in the NRS score on the worst breast pain during the third cycle of treatment period. All statistical tests will be two-sided and P value <0.05 will be considered statistically significant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Gao
- Department of Acupuncture, Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuanjie Sun
- Department of Acupuncture, Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hangyu Shi
- Department of Acupuncture, Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- Graduate School, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiufei Fang
- Department of Acupuncture, Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhishun Liu
- Department of Acupuncture, Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
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Zheng Y, Jiang X, Gao Y, Yuan L, Wang X, Wu S, Xia Y, Yao L, Yan J, Liu L, Wei Y, Song Z, Yu L, Chen Y. Microbial Profiles of Patients With Antipsychotic-Related Constipation Treated With Electroacupuncture. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:737713. [PMID: 34722577 PMCID: PMC8551555 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.737713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Antipsychotic-related constipation (APRC) is one of the most common side effects of taking antipsychotic medication. APRC can seriously impact patient quality of life and is potentially fatal, though the efficacy of current APRC treatments is low for most patients. In this study, we conducted a controlled, pilot randomized, sham-electroacupuncture (SEA) study to assess the efficacy of electroacupuncture (EA) in patients with APRC. We used 16S rRNA gene sequencing to assess the microbial profiles of these patients and analyze how EA treatments affected their bacteria. Methods: We treated 133 APRC patients with randomly assigned EA treatments or SEA treatments for 4 consecutive weeks, fully evaluating the patients 8 weeks after treatment. The participants, outcome assessors, and statistics were all blind to the EA and SEA treatments. Outcomes assessed included changes in spontaneous bowel movements (SBMs) and the frequency of rescue measures. We detected assessed the microbial diversity of stool specimens both before and after EA treatment using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Results: Both EA and SEA treatments reduced the need for constipation rescue measures and did not have serious side effects. EA treatments were better than SEA treatments at increasing SBMs and reducing rescue measures. The diversity of gut microbiota changed after EA treatment. LEfSe analysis indicated changes in the genus (belonging to phylum Proteobacteria) of gut microbiota in patients following EA treatment. Conclusions: This study found that EA treatment is effective and safe for patients with APRC, and could be associated with changes in their microbial profiles. Further study, with larger sample sizes, is needed to explore the efficacy of EA intervention as a clinical treatment for APRC. Trial Registration: ChiCTR, ChiCTR-ONC-17010842, http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=18420.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanjia Zheng
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiumin Jiang
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yacen Gao
- Rehabilitation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lexin Yuan
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaotong Wang
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shengwei Wu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China
| | - Yucen Xia
- Research Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Lin Yao
- Research Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Jinglan Yan
- Research Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Lanying Liu
- Department of Psychosomatics, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yingdong Wei
- Medical Administration Division, Shenyang Anning Hospital, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhiqiang Song
- The Third People's Hospital of Qinghai Province, Xining, China
| | - Lin Yu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China
| | - Yongjun Chen
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Research Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China.,Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Guangzhou, China
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Kong JT, Puetz C, Tian L, Haynes I, Lee E, Stafford RS, Manber R, Mackey S. Effect of Electroacupuncture vs Sham Treatment on Change in Pain Severity Among Adults With Chronic Low Back Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open 2020; 3:e2022787. [PMID: 33107921 PMCID: PMC7592030 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2020.22787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Chronic low back pain has high societal and personal impact but remains challenging to treat. Electroacupuncture has demonstrated superior analgesia compared with placebo in animal studies but has not been extensively studied in human chronic pain conditions. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the treatment effect of real electroacupuncture vs placebo in pain and disability among adults with chronic low back pain and to explore psychophysical, affective, and demographic factors associated with response to electroacupuncture vs placebo in treating chronic low back pain. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This double-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted between August 2, 2016, and December 18, 2018, at a single center in Stanford, California. Primary outcomes were collected at approximately 2 weeks before and after intervention. Participants included English-speaking adults with at least 6 months of chronic low back pain, pain intensity of at least 4 on a scale of 0 to 10, and no radiculopathy. Data analyses for this intent-to-treat study were conducted from June 2019 to June 2020. INTERVENTIONS Twelve sessions of real or placebo (sham) electroacupuncture administered twice a week over 6 weeks. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The main outcome was change in pain severity from baseline to 2 weeks after completion of treatment, measured by the National Institutes of Health PROMIS pain intensity scale. A secondary outcome was change in the Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ). Baseline factors potentially associated with these outcomes included psychophysical testing (ie, thermal temporal summation, conditioned pain modulation, pressure pain threshold), participant's self-report (ie, widespread pain, coping strategies, expectations, self-efficacy, and pain catastrophizing), and demographic characteristics (eg, age, sex, and race). RESULTS A total of 121 adults were recruited to the study, among whom 59 participants (mean [SD] age, 46.8 [11.9] years; 36 [61.0%] women) were randomized to real electroacupuncture and 62 participants (mean [SD] age, 45.6 [12.8] years; 33 [53.2%] women) were randomized to sham electroacupuncture. At baseline, the mean (SD) PROMIS T-score was 50.49 (3.36) in the real electroacupuncture group and 51.71 (4.70) in the sham acupuncture group, and the mean (SD) RMDQ score was 10.16 (4.76) in the real electroacupuncture group and 10.03 (5.45) in the sham acupuncture group. After adjusting for baseline pain scores, there was no statistically significant difference between groups in change in T-scores 2 weeks after completion of treatment (real electroacupuncture: -4.33; 95% CI, -6.36 to -2.30; sham acupuncture: -2.90; 95% CI, -4.85 to -0.95; difference: -2.09; 95% CI, -4.27 to 0.09; P = .06). After adjusting for baseline RMDQ, there was a significantly greater reduction in RMDQ in the real electroacupuncture group (-2.77; 95% CI, -4.11 to -1.43) compared with the sham electroacupuncture group (-0.67; 95% CI, -1.88 to 0.55; difference: -2.11; 95% CI, -3.75 to -0.47; P = .01). Within the real electroacupuncture group, effective coping at baseline was associated with greater RMDQ reduction (r = -0.32; 95% CI, -0.54 to -0.05; P = .02), and White race was associated with worse outcomes in PROMIS score (β = 3.791; 95% CI, 0.616 to 6.965; P = .02) and RMDQ (β = 2.878; 95% CI, 0.506 to 5.250; P = .02). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE This randomized clinical trial found no statistically significant difference in change in PROMIS pain score in real electroacupuncture vs sham electroacupuncture. There was a statistically significant treatment effect for the secondary outcome of RMDQ compared with sham electroacupuncture. Effective coping skills and non-White race were associated with response to electroacupuncture. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02890810.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiang-Ti Kong
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Chelcie Puetz
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Lu Tian
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Isaac Haynes
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Eunyoung Lee
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Randall S. Stafford
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Rachel Manber
- Department of Psychiatry, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Sean Mackey
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
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The Effect of Patient Characteristics on Acupuncture Treatment Outcomes: An Individual Patient Data Meta-Analysis of 20,827 Chronic Pain Patients in Randomized Controlled Trials. Clin J Pain 2020; 35:428-434. [PMID: 30908336 DOI: 10.1097/ajp.0000000000000691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To optimally select chronic pain patients for different treatments, as it is of interest to identify patient characteristics that might moderate treatment effect. Our aim was to evaluate the impact of possible moderators on the effect of acupuncture treatment using a large data set. METHODS We used data from an individual patient data meta-analysis of high-quality randomized trials of acupuncture for chronic headache and migraine, osteoarthritis, and back, neck, and shoulder pain. Using meta-analytic trial-level and patient-level regression analyses, we explored the impact of 5 documented patient characteristics (patients' age at baseline, sex, pain duration, baseline pain severity and baseline psychological distress) on the effect of acupuncture. RESULTS A total of 39 trials met the inclusion criteria: 25 use sham-acupuncture controls (n = 7097) and 25 non-acupuncture controls (n = 16,041). Of the 5 patient characteristics analyzed, only baseline pain severity was found to potentially moderate the treatment effect of acupuncture, with patients reporting more severe pain at baseline experiencing more benefit from acupuncture compared to either sham-control or non-acupuncture control. Baseline psychological distress showed small treatment moderating effects, and results for sex were inconsistent. There was no strong evidence that age or duration of pain influenced the response to acupuncture. DISCUSSION Of 5 patient characteristics tested, we found only baseline severity of pain to potentially moderate the effect of acupuncture treatment. For clinical practice, the evidence from this analysis does not justify stratifying chronic pain patients into subgroups that should or should not receive acupuncture on the basis of these 5 characteristics. Future acupuncture trials should assess other potentially important effect moderators.
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Foster NE, Vertosick EA, Lewith G, Linde K, MacPherson H, Sherman KJ, Witt CM, Vickers AJ. Identifying patients with chronic pain who respond to acupuncture: results from an individual patient data meta-analysis. Acupunct Med 2020; 39:83-90. [PMID: 32571096 DOI: 10.1177/0964528420920303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In a recent individual patient data meta-analysis, acupuncture was found to be superior to sham and non-sham controls in patients with chronic pain. It has been suggested that a subgroup of patients has an exceptional response to acupuncture. We hypothesized the presence of exceptional acupuncture responders would lead to a different distribution of pain scores in acupuncture versus control groups, with the former being skewed to the right. METHODS This individual patient data meta-analysis included 39 high-quality randomized trials of acupuncture for chronic headache, migraine, osteoarthritis, low back pain, neck pain and shoulder pain published before December 2015 (n = 20,827). In all, 25 involved sham acupuncture controls (n = 7097) and 25 non-acupuncture controls (n = 16,041). We analyzed the distribution of change scores and calculated the difference in the skewness statistic-which assesses asymmetry in the data distribution-between acupuncture and either sham or non-acupuncture control groups. We then entered the difference in skewness along with standard error into a meta-analysis. FINDINGS Control groups were more right-skewed than acupuncture groups, although this difference was very small. The difference in skew was 0.124 for non-acupuncture-controlled trials (p = 0.047) and 0.141 for sham-controlled trials (p = 0.029). In a pre-specified sensitivity analysis excluding three trials with outlying results known a priori, the difference in skew between acupuncture and sham was no longer statistically significant (p = 0.2). CONCLUSION We did not find evidence to support the notion that there are exceptional acupuncture responders. The challenge remains to identify features of chronic pain patients that can be used to distinguish those that have a good response to acupuncture treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadine E Foster
- Primary Care Centre Versus Arthritis, School of Primary, Community and Social Care, Keele University, Staffordshire, UK
| | | | - George Lewith
- Faculty of Medicine, Primary Care and Population Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Klaus Linde
- Institute of General Practice, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Karen J Sherman
- Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Claudia M Witt
- Institute for Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Institute for Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
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Zheng Q, Wang J, Zheng H, Lu L, Zhou S, Hao X, Zhang W, Li Y. What types of patients with chronic diarrhea benefit more from acupuncture treatment? A secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial. Eur J Integr Med 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eujim.2020.101098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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10
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The effect of treatment regimens on salivary cortisol levels in patients with chronic musculoskeletal disorders. J Bodyw Mov Ther 2020; 24:100-108. [PMID: 31987528 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2019.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increased levels of circulating cortisol have been associated with pain severity in patients with chronic musculoskeletal disorders (CMD). Little is known about the potential association between pain management and salivary cortisol alterations in CPM patients treated with different regimens. OBJECTIVES This prospective feasibility study aimed to determine the effect of two treatment regimens in comparison with sham therapy on pain intensity and disability and salivary cortisol concentration (SCC) in patients with CMD. METHODS Thirty patients were randomly assigned to 3 groups of 10: two experimental groups (A and B) and a control group (C). The experimental groups followed physiotherapy treatment (A) or acupuncture (B), while the control group (C) followed a sham therapy for 10 sessions. Pain data were collected using the Chronic Pain Grade (CPG) questionnaire and SCC was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay at pre- and posttreatment. RESULTS Repeated-measures analysis of variance showed that patients treated with acupuncture experienced greater decreases in pain intensity/pain disability (P < 0.05) than the physiotherapy and sham therapy groups. No statistical differences were found between the three groups for the SCC outcome variable. Bonferroni adjustments showed that the mean values of SCC were significantly decreased at posttreatment (P < 0.05) across the three groups. CONCLUSION There was a significant decrease in both pain and cortisol outcomes at posttreatment in patients with CMD. Because of the limitations of this study, we cannot draw conclusions regarding whether the lower SCC could be an indication of pain reduction in patients with CMD.
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Dissing KB, Vach W, Hartvigsen J, Wedderkopp N, Hestbæk L. Potential treatment effect modifiers for manipulative therapy for children complaining of spinal pain.Secondary analyses of a randomised controlled trial. Chiropr Man Therap 2019; 27:59. [PMID: 31827767 PMCID: PMC6902507 DOI: 10.1186/s12998-019-0282-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In children, spinal pain is transitory for most, but up to 20% experience recurrent and bothersome complaints. It is generally acknowledged that interventions may be more effective for subgroups of those affected with low back pain. In this secondary analysis of data from a randomized clinical trial, we tested whether five indicators of a potential increased need for treatment might act as effect modifiers for manipulative therapy in the treatment of spinal pain in children. We hypothesized that the most severely affected children would benefit more from manipulative therapy. Method This study was a secondary analysis of data from a randomised controlled trial comparing advice, exercises and soft tissue treatment with and without the addition of manipulative therapy in 238 Danish school children aged 9-15 years complaining of spinal pain. A text message system (SMS) and clinical examinations were used for data collection (February 2012 to April 2014).Five pre-specified potential effect modifiers were explored: Number of weeks with spinal pain 6 months prior to inclusion, number of weeks with co-occurring musculoskeletal pain 6 months prior to inclusion, expectations of the clinical course, pain intensity, and quality of life.Outcomes were number of recurrences of spinal pain, number of weeks with pain, length of episodes, global perceived effect, and change in pain intensity. To explore potential effect modification, various types of regression models were used depending on the type of outcome, including interaction tests. Results We found that children with long duration of spinal pain or co-occurring musculoskeletal pain prior to inclusion as well as low quality of life at baseline tended to benefit from manipulative therapy over non-manipulative therapy, whereas the opposite was seen for children reporting high intensity of pain. However, most results were statistically insignificant. Conclusions This secondary analysis indicates that children more effected by certain baseline characteristics, but not pain intensity, have a greater chance to benefit from treatment that include manipulative therapy. However, these analyses were both secondary and underpowered, and therefore merely exploratory. The results underline the need for a careful choice of inclusion criteria in future investigations of manipulative therapy in children. Trial registration NCT01504698; results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Boe Dissing
- 1Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Werner Vach
- 2Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University Hospital Basel, Spitalstr. 21, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jan Hartvigsen
- 1Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark.,3Nordic Institute of Chiropractic and Clinical Biomechanics, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Niels Wedderkopp
- 4Research in Childhood Health, University of Southern Denmark, SCampusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark.,5Department of Orthopaedics, Sydvestjysk Sygehus Esbjerg, Finsensgade 35, DK-6700 Esbjerg, Denmark
| | - Lise Hestbæk
- 1Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark.,3Nordic Institute of Chiropractic and Clinical Biomechanics, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
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Hayden JA, Wilson MN, Riley RD, Iles R, Pincus T, Ogilvie R. Individual recovery expectations and prognosis of outcomes in non-specific low back pain: prognostic factor review. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2019; 2019:CD011284. [PMID: 31765487 PMCID: PMC6877336 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011284.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low back pain is costly and disabling. Prognostic factor evidence can help healthcare providers and patients understand likely prognosis, inform the development of prediction models to identify subgroups, and may inform new treatment strategies. Recent studies have suggested that people who have poor expectations for recovery experience more back pain disability, but study results have differed. OBJECTIVES To synthesise evidence on the association between recovery expectations and disability outcomes in adults with low back pain, and explore sources of heterogeneity. SEARCH METHODS The search strategy included broad and focused electronic searches of MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and PsycINFO to 12 March 2019, reference list searches of relevant reviews and included studies, and citation searches of relevant expectation measurement tools. SELECTION CRITERIA We included low back pain prognosis studies from any setting assessing general, self-efficacy, and treatment expectations (measured dichotomously and continuously on a 0 - 10 scale), and their association with work participation, clinically important recovery, functional limitations, or pain intensity outcomes at short (3 months), medium (6 months), long (12 months), and very long (> 16 months) follow-up. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We extracted study characteristics and all reported estimates of unadjusted and adjusted associations between expectations and related outcomes. Two review authors independently assessed risks of bias using the Quality in Prognosis Studies (QUIPS) tool. We conducted narrative syntheses and meta-analyses when appropriate unadjusted or adjusted estimates were available. Two review authors independently graded and reported the overall quality of evidence. MAIN RESULTS We screened 4635 unique citations to include 60 studies (30,530 participants). Thirty-five studies were conducted in Europe, 21 in North America, and four in Australia. Study populations were mostly chronic (37%), from healthcare (62%) or occupational settings (26%). General expectation was the most common type of recovery expectation measured (70%); 16 studies measured more than one type of expectation. Usable data for syntheses were available for 52 studies (87% of studies; 28,885 participants). We found moderate-quality evidence that positive recovery expectations are strongly associated with better work participation (narrative synthesis: 21 studies; meta-analysis: 12 studies, 4777 participants: odds ratio (OR) 2.43, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.64 to 3.62), and low-quality evidence for clinically important recovery outcomes (narrative synthesis: 12 studies; meta-analysis: 5 studies, 1820 participants: OR 1.89, 95% CI 1.49 to 2.41), both at follow-up times closest to 12 months, using adjusted data. The association of recovery expectations with other outcomes of interest, including functional limitations (narrative synthesis: 10 studies; meta-analysis: 3 studies, 1435 participants: OR 1.40, 95% CI 0.85 to 2.31) and pain intensity (narrative synthesis: 9 studies; meta-analysis: 3 studies, 1555 participants: OR 1.15, 95% CI 1.08 to 1.23) outcomes at follow-up times closest to 12 months using adjusted data, is less certain, achieving very low- and low-quality evidence, respectively. No studies reported statistically significant or clinically important negative associations between recovery expectations and any low back pain outcome. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS We found that individual recovery expectations are probably strongly associated with future work participation (moderate-quality evidence) and may be associated with clinically important recovery outcomes (low-quality evidence). The association of recovery expectations with other outcomes of interest is less certain. Our findings suggest that recovery expectations should be considered in future studies, to improve prognosis and management of low back pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill A Hayden
- Dalhousie UniversityDepartment of Community Health & Epidemiology5790 University AvenueRoom 403HalifaxNSCanadaB3H 1V7
| | - Maria N Wilson
- Dalhousie UniversityDepartment of Community Health and EpidemiologyHalifaxNova ScotiaCanada
| | - Richard D Riley
- Keele UniversitySchool of Primary, Community and Social CareDavid Weatherall Building, Keele University CampusKeeleStaffordshireUKST5 5BG
| | - Ross Iles
- Monash UniversityDepartment of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health SciencesPeninsula CampusFrankstonVictoriaAustralia3199
| | - Tamar Pincus
- Royal Holloway University of LondonDepartment of PsychologyEghamSurreyUKTW20 0EX
| | - Rachel Ogilvie
- Dalhousie UniversityCommunity Health & Epidemiology5760 University AvenueHalifaxCanadaB3H 1V7
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Schloss J, McIntyre E, Steel A, Bradley R, Harnett J, Reid R, Hawrelak J, Goldenberg J, Van De Venter C, Cooley K. Lessons from Outside and Within: Exploring Advancements in Methodology for Naturopathic Medicine Clinical Research. J Altern Complement Med 2019; 25:135-140. [PMID: 30785314 PMCID: PMC6424155 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2018.0403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Naturopathy is a mixture of both traditional and complementary medicine. It incorporates a broad set of health care practices that may or may not be traditional to that country or conventional medicine and are not fully integrated into the dominant health care system. Research required to evaluate or substantiate naturopathic medicine may not fall under the testing of randomized clinical trials, which opens up discussions on what is the best practice for research in naturopathic medicine. DISCUSSION Not only do advances in health research methodology offer important opportunities to progress naturopathic research, there are also areas where the unique characteristics of naturopathic philosophy and practice can impact other areas of health research. Some of the new advances in health research methodology involve whole-system research, pragmatic trials, template for intervention description and replication protocols for complex interventions, patient-centered care models, and the pragmatic-explanatory continuum indicator summary tool for designing pragmatic trials. Discussion and critique of these health-related methodologies shows that these research methods are more suited for the philosophy and treatment options that naturopathy is based on. CONCLUSIONS Successful implementation of naturopathic research methodologies, and translation and dissemination of research will require a substantial paradigm shift in which naturopathic practitioners adopt a greater level of responsibility for developing an evidence base for naturopathic medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet Schloss
- Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Faculty of Health, Ultimo, Australia
- Office of Research, Endeavour College of Natural Health, Fortitude Valley, Australia
| | - Erica McIntyre
- Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Faculty of Health, Ultimo, Australia
| | - Amie Steel
- Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Faculty of Health, Ultimo, Australia
- Office of Research, Endeavour College of Natural Health, Fortitude Valley, Australia
| | - Ryan Bradley
- Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Faculty of Health, Ultimo, Australia
- Helfgott Research Institute, National University of Natural Medicine, Portland, OR
| | - Joanna Harnett
- Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Faculty of Health, Ultimo, Australia
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Rebecca Reid
- Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Faculty of Health, Ultimo, Australia
- Office of Research, Endeavour College of Natural Health, Fortitude Valley, Australia
| | - Jason Hawrelak
- Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Faculty of Health, Ultimo, Australia
- College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Joshua Goldenberg
- Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Faculty of Health, Ultimo, Australia
- Department of Naturopathy, Bastyr University, Kenmore, WA USA
| | - Claudine Van De Venter
- Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Faculty of Health, Ultimo, Australia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kieran Cooley
- Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Faculty of Health, Ultimo, Australia
- Office of Research, Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, North York, Canada
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Xu T, Zhou S, Zhang Y, Yu Y, Li X, Chen J, Du J, Wang Z, Zhao L. Acupuncture for chronic uncomplicated musculoskeletal pain associated with the spine: A systematic review protocol. Medicine (Baltimore) 2019; 98:e14055. [PMID: 30633205 PMCID: PMC6336643 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000014055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic uncomplicated neck pain, back pain, and lower back pain, with incidences of 18%, 17.7% and 36%, respectively. Although these three conditions occur in different parts of the body, we can summarize them as chronic uncomplicated musculoskeletal pain associated with the spine (CMPS) in accordance with the pathogenesis. Acupuncture is often used to treat them. We aim to conduct a systematic review to evaluate the efficacy of acupuncture for patients experiencing CMPS. METHODS The following electronic databases will be searched from inception to Mar 2019: Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Springer, WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, VIP Chinese Science and Technology Periodical Database, and Wanfang Database. All randomized controlled trials published in English or Chinese related to acupuncture for CMPS will be included. The primary outcome will be the visual analog scale. Adverse events will be evaluated as secondary outcomes for safety evaluation. Study selection, data extraction, and assessment of study quality will be performed independently by two reviewers. RevMan V.5.3.5 software will be used for the assessment of risk of bias and data synthesis. RESULTS This study will provide a high-quality synthesis of current evidence of acupuncture for CMPS from visual analog scale. CONCLUSION The conclusion of our study will provide an evidence to judge whether acupuncture is an effective intervention for patients suffered from CMPS. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Formal ethical approval is not required, as the data are not individualized. The findings of this systematic review will be disseminated in a peer-reviewed publication and/or presented at relevant conferences. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42018114806.
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Kong JT, MacIsaac B, Cogan R, Ng A, Law CSW, Helms J, Schnyer R, Karayannis NV, Kao MC, Tian L, Darnall BD, Gross JJ, Mackey S, Manber R. Central mechanisms of real and sham electroacupuncture in the treatment of chronic low back pain: study protocol for a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Trials 2018; 19:685. [PMID: 30541586 PMCID: PMC6292023 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-018-3044-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is the most common chronic pain condition and is often resistant to conventional treatments. Acupuncture is a popular alternative for treating CLBP but its mechanisms of action remain poorly understood. Evidence suggests that pain regulatory mechanisms (particularly the ascending and secondarily the descending pain modulatory pathways) and psychological mechanisms (e.g., expectations, pain catastrophizing and self-efficacy) may be involved in the pathogenesis of CLBP and its response to treatments. We will examine these mechanisms in the treatment of CLBP by electroacupuncture (EA). METHODS We present the aims and methods of a placebo-controlled, participant-blinded and assessor-blinded mechanistic study. Adult patients with CLBP will be randomized to receiving 16 sessions of real (active) or sham (placebo) EA over the course of 8 weeks. The primary pain regulatory measure for which the study was powered is temporal summation (TS), which approximates ascending pain facilitation. Conditioned pain modulation (CPM), representing a descending pain modulatory pathway, will be our secondary pain regulatory measure. The primary psychological measure is expectations of benefit, and the secondary psychological measures are pain catastrophizing and self-efficacy in managing pain. Main clinical outcomes are back pain bothersomeness on a 0-100 visual analog scale (primary), Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (secondary), and relevant items from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Patient-Reported Outcome Measures Information System (secondary). We hypothesize that compared to sham, real EA will lead to greater reduction in TS after 8 treatment sessions (4 weeks); and that reduction in TS (and secondarily, increase in CPM) after 8 treatment sessions will mediate reduction in back pain bothersomeness from baseline to week 10 (clinical response) to EA. We also hypothesize that the three psychological factors are moderators of clinical response. With 100 treatment completers, the study is designed to have 80% power to detect a medium-sized between-group effect (d = 0.5) on temporal summation. DISCUSSION To the best of our knowledge, this is the first appropriately powered, placebo-controlled clinical trial evaluating mechanisms of EA in the treatment of CLBP. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02503475 . Registered on 15 July 15 2015. Retrospectively registered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiang-Ti Kong
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 1070 Arastradero Rd., Suite 200, Palo Alto, CA 94304 USA
| | - Brandon MacIsaac
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 1070 Arastradero Rd., Suite 200, Palo Alto, CA 94304 USA
| | - Ruti Cogan
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 1070 Arastradero Rd., Suite 200, Palo Alto, CA 94304 USA
| | - Amanda Ng
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 1070 Arastradero Rd., Suite 200, Palo Alto, CA 94304 USA
| | - Christine Sze Wan Law
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 1070 Arastradero Rd., Suite 200, Palo Alto, CA 94304 USA
| | - Joseph Helms
- Helms Medical Institute, 2520 Milvia Street, Berkeley, CA 94704 USA
| | - Rosa Schnyer
- The University of Texas at Austin, School of Nursing, Office, NUR 5.188, 1710 Red River Street, Austin, TX 78701 USA
| | - Nicholas Vasilis Karayannis
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 1070 Arastradero Rd., Suite 200, Palo Alto, CA 94304 USA
| | - Ming-Chih Kao
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 1070 Arastradero Rd., Suite 200, Palo Alto, CA 94304 USA
| | - Lu Tian
- Department of Biomedical Data Science and Statistics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
| | - Beth D. Darnall
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 1070 Arastradero Rd., Suite 200, Palo Alto, CA 94304 USA
| | - James J. Gross
- Department of Psychology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
| | - Sean Mackey
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 1070 Arastradero Rd., Suite 200, Palo Alto, CA 94304 USA
| | - Rachel Manber
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Sleep Center, 401 Quarry Rd Rm 3337, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
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Glazov G. The Influence of Baseline Characteristics on Response to a Laser Acupuncture Intervention: An Exploratory Analysis. Acupunct Med 2018; 28:6-11. [DOI: 10.1136/aim.2009.001206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Objectives In clinical practice it is known that subjects vary in their response to acupuncture, but there is little data on what predicts the outcome. The aim of this study was to identify such predictors. Method A secondary analysis was performed on data from 100 participants in a trial of laser and sham laser acupuncture for chronic non-specific low back pain. Multiple regression analysis was used to identify which baseline characteristics predicted pain change in the immediate, short and intermediate term. An analysis of covariance was performed based on these results to re-examine the primary result of the trial. Results Strong predictors of poor response were receipt of disability support pension, headache, the regular use of analgesics or previous failed back surgery. Higher pain scores or exacerbation of pain at baseline predicted a greater proportionate pain relief after the intervention. Adjusted analysis suggested a clinically important effect of laser compared to sham (p<0.05), at short term follow-up only. Conclusion The findings of this study suggest which characteristics of patients with chronic low back pain are more likely to respond to laser acupuncture treatment, but require replication in other studies. The findings may not apply in other acupuncture interventions and treatment of different conditions. They may also be used to set selection criteria for future studies, and to aid interpreting the effect of baseline imbalances on trial results.
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Hickstein L, Kiel S, Raus C, Heß S, Walker J, Chenot JF. [Acupuncture covered by statutory health insurance in Germany : An observational study based on claims data]. Schmerz 2017; 32:30-38. [PMID: 29230550 DOI: 10.1007/s00482-017-0258-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The coverage for acupuncture for chronic lower back or knee pain by the statutory health insurance was introduced in 2007. The aim of this study was to investigate characteristics of patients and providers of acupuncture and temporal and regional trends in the utilization of acupuncture. METHODS This retrospective observational study used anonymized statutory health insurance claims data from a sample of roughly four million subjects. The sample is representative of the German population regarding age and gender in 2013. RESULTS Lower back pain was the most common coded indication (86%) for billing acupuncture. Women were more often treated with acupuncture than men; the mean age was 61.1 years. For 63% acupuncture was billed in 2014 for the first time, 37% already had an acupuncture treatment in 2012 or 2013. Premature termination (<6 sessions) was observed in 14% of all insurants receiving acupuncture for the first time in 2014 for knee pain and in 21% of those with back pain. Overall there was a statistically significant decrease in the utilization of acupuncture from 2008 to 2015. Regional differences between East and West Germany and city states were observed. Half of all acupuncture treatments in 2014 were provided by 11% of all physicians who billed acupuncture at least once. DISCUSSION Higher utilization of acupuncture by women reflects the epidemiology of back and knee pain and their preference for alternative complementary medicine. On the one hand, the large proportion of patients treated repeatedly with acupuncture suggests perceived benefits. On the other hand, provision of acupuncture services is decreasing continuously and a relevant proportion of subjects are terminating treatment prematurely.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Hickstein
- InGef - Institut für angewandte Gesundheitsforschung Berlin GmbH, Spittelmarkt 12, 10117, Berlin, Deutschland.
- Abteilung Allgemeinmedizin, Institut für Community Medicine, Universitätsmedizin Greifswald, Greifswald, Deutschland.
| | - S Kiel
- Abteilung Allgemeinmedizin, Institut für Community Medicine, Universitätsmedizin Greifswald, Greifswald, Deutschland
| | - C Raus
- Abteilung Allgemeinmedizin, Institut für Community Medicine, Universitätsmedizin Greifswald, Greifswald, Deutschland
| | - S Heß
- InGef - Institut für angewandte Gesundheitsforschung Berlin GmbH, Spittelmarkt 12, 10117, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - J Walker
- InGef - Institut für angewandte Gesundheitsforschung Berlin GmbH, Spittelmarkt 12, 10117, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - J-F Chenot
- Abteilung Allgemeinmedizin, Institut für Community Medicine, Universitätsmedizin Greifswald, Greifswald, Deutschland
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Yang X, Liu Y, Liu B, He L, Liu Z, Yan Y, Liu J, Liu B. Factors related to acupuncture response in patients with chronic severe functional constipation: Secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0187723. [PMID: 29166673 PMCID: PMC5699843 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0187723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 10/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Acupuncture has been demonstrated to be effective and safe for chronic severe functional constipation (CSFC). However, which patients with CSFC will have a better response to acupuncture remains unclear. Objective To explore factors related to acupuncture response in patients with CSFC. Methods We performed a secondary analysis of a previous multicenter randomized controlled trial consisting of a 2-week run-in period, 8-week treatment, and 12-week follow-up without treatment in which patients with CSFC were randomly allocated to an electroacupuncture group or a sham electroacupuncture group. Responders were defined as participants with an increase of at least one complete spontaneous bowel movement (CSBM) in week 20 compared with the baseline period. The CSBM responder rate in both groups was described, and the baseline characteristics of participants potentially related to acupuncture response were mainly analyzed using logistic regression analysis with bootstrapping techniques. Results A total of 1021 participants were analyzed in this study, of whom 516 (50.5%) were classified as responders. The CSBM responder rate in week 20 was significantly greater in the electroacupuncture group than in the sham electroacupuncture group (62.9% vs. 37.9%, respectively; P<0.001). Both age and comorbidity were negatively associated with clinical response: with every one-year increase in age, the likelihood of clinical response was reduced by 1.2% (OR 0.988, 95%CI 0.980 to 0.996; P = 0.005), and patients with comorbidities were approximately 42% less likely to respond to treatment (OR 0.581, 95%CI 0.248 to 0.914; P = 0.001). Conclusion CSFC patients with increasing age and comorbidity may be less likely to respond to acupuncture. These findings contribute to guiding clinical practice in terms of pretreatment patient selection. Further research is needed to confirm the association.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingyue Yang
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Bing Liu
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Liyun He
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhishun Liu
- Guang’an Men Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yanshi Yan
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jia Liu
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Baoyan Liu
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- * E-mail:
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Yeung WF, Chung KF, Yu YMB, Lao L. What predicts a positive response to acupuncture? A secondary analysis of three randomised controlled trials of insomnia. Acupunct Med 2016; 35:24-29. [PMID: 27503746 DOI: 10.1136/acupmed-2016-011058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Few studies have investigated the predictors of the specific and non-specific effects of acupuncture. The aim of this secondary analysis was to determine patient characteristics that may predict a better treatment response to acupuncture for insomnia. METHODS We pooled the data of three randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of acupuncture for insomnia to examine sociodemographic variables, clinical characteristics, baseline sleep-wake variables, and treatment expectancy in relation to acupuncture response. Subjects with an improvement in insomnia severity index (ISI) scores of ≥8 points from baseline to 1 week post-treatment were classified as responders. Factors were compared between responders and non-responders, and also by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. RESULTS A total of 116 subjects who received traditional needle acupuncture were included, of which 37 (31.9%) were classified as responders. Acupuncture responders had a higher educational level (p<0.01) and higher baseline ISI score (p<0.05), compared to non-responders. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, only the number of years spent in full-time education remained significant as a predictor of treatment response (OR 1.21, 95% CI 1.06 to 1.38, p<0.01). CONCLUSIONS Consistent with previous studies, our data suggest that the response to acupuncture is difficult to predict. Although the predictive power of educational level is weak overall, our findings provide potentially valuable information that could be built upon in further research (including a larger sample size), and may help to inform patient selection for the treatment of chronic insomnia with acupuncture in the future. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ClinicalTrials.gov: #NCT00839592; Results, #NCT00838994; Results, and #NCT01707706; Results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wing-Fai Yeung
- School of Nursing, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ka-Fai Chung
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yee-Man Branda Yu
- School of Chinese Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Lixing Lao
- School of Chinese Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Hsu KY, Chui KKH, Conboy L. Are baseline characteristics related to responses to acupuncture treatment for musculoskeletal conditions? Analysis of a dataset from a teaching centre. Acupunct Med 2016; 34:408-409. [PMID: 27390255 DOI: 10.1136/acupmed-2016-011184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Yin Hsu
- Research Department, New England School of Acupuncture at MCPHS University, Newton, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kenneth Kwan Ho Chui
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts School of Medicine, Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lisa Conboy
- Director of Research, New England School of Acupuncture at MCPHS University, Newton, Massachusetts, USA
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Patel S, Hee SW, Mistry D, Jordan J, Brown S, Dritsaki M, Ellard DR, Friede T, Lamb SE, Lord J, Madan J, Morris T, Stallard N, Tysall C, Willis A, Underwood M. Identifying back pain subgroups: developing and applying approaches using individual patient data collected within clinical trials. PROGRAMME GRANTS FOR APPLIED RESEARCH 2016. [DOI: 10.3310/pgfar04100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BackgroundThere is good evidence that therapist-delivered interventions have modest beneficial effects for people with low back pain (LBP). Identification of subgroups of people with LBP who may benefit from these different treatment approaches is an important research priority.Aim and objectivesTo improve the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of LBP treatment by providing patients, their clinical advisors and health-service purchasers with better information about which participants are most likely to benefit from which treatment choices. Our objectives were to synthesise what is already known about the validity, reliability and predictive value of possible treatment moderators (patient factors that predict response to treatment) for therapist-delivered interventions; develop a repository of individual participant data from randomised controlled trials (RCTs) testing therapist-delivered interventions for LBP; determine which participant characteristics, if any, predict clinical response to different treatments for LBP; and determine which participant characteristics, if any, predict the most cost-effective treatments for LBP. Achieving these objectives required substantial methodological work, including the development and evaluation of some novel statistical approaches. This programme of work was not designed to analyse the main effect of interventions and no such interpretations should be made.MethodsFirst, we reviewed the literature on treatment moderators and subgroups. We initially invited investigators of trials of therapist-delivered interventions for LBP with > 179 participants to share their data with us; some further smaller trials that were offered to us were also included. Using these trials we developed a repository of individual participant data of therapist-delivered interventions for LBP. Using this data set we sought to identify which participant characteristics, if any, predict response to different treatments (moderators) for clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness outcomes. We undertook an analysis of covariance to identify potential moderators to apply in our main analyses. Subsequently, we developed and applied three methods of subgroup identification: recursive partitioning (interaction trees and subgroup identification based on a differential effect search); adaptive risk group refinement; and an individual participant data indirect network meta-analysis (NWMA) to identify subgroups defined by multiple parameters.ResultsWe included data from 19 RCTs with 9328 participants (mean age 49 years, 57% females). Our prespecified analyses using recursive partitioning and adaptive risk group refinement performed well and allowed us to identify some subgroups. The differences in the effect size in the different subgroups were typically small and unlikely to be clinically meaningful. Increasing baseline severity on the outcome of interest was the strongest driver of subgroup identification that we identified. Additionally, we explored the application of Bayesian indirect NWMA. This method produced varying probabilities that a particular treatment choice would be most likely to be effective for a specific patient profile.ConclusionsThese data lack clinical effectiveness or cost-effectiveness justification for the use of baseline characteristics in the development of subgroups for back pain. The methodological developments from this work have the potential to be applied in other clinical areas. The pooled repository database will serve as a valuable resource to the LBP research community.FundingThe National Institute for Health Research Programme Grants for Applied Research programme. This project benefited from facilities funded through Birmingham Science City Translational Medicine Clinical Research and Infrastructure Trials Platform, with support from Advantage West Midlands (AWM) and the Wolfson Foundation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilpa Patel
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Siew Wan Hee
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Dipesh Mistry
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Jake Jordan
- Brunel University, Health Economics Research Group, Uxbridge, UK
- Surrey Health Economic Centre, School of Economics, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Sally Brown
- Universities/User Teaching and Research Action Partnership (UNTRAP), University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Melina Dritsaki
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- Centre for Rehabilitation Research, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - David R Ellard
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Tim Friede
- Department of Medical Statistics, University Medical Centre Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Sarah E Lamb
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- Centre for Rehabilitation Research, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Joanne Lord
- Brunel University, Health Economics Research Group, Uxbridge, UK
- Southampton Health Technology Assessments Centre (SHTAC), University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Jason Madan
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Tom Morris
- Leicester Clinical Trials Unit, Diabetes Research Centre, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Nigel Stallard
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Colin Tysall
- Universities/User Teaching and Research Action Partnership (UNTRAP), University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Adrian Willis
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
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Penney LS, Ritenbaugh C, Elder C, Schneider J, Deyo RA, DeBar LL. Primary care physicians, acupuncture and chiropractic clinicians, and chronic pain patients: a qualitative analysis of communication and care coordination patterns. Altern Ther Health Med 2016; 16:30. [PMID: 26810302 PMCID: PMC4727288 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-016-1005-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2015] [Accepted: 01/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A variety of people, with multiple perspectives, make up the system comprising chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP) treatment. While there are frequently problems in communication and coordination of care within conventional health systems, more opportunities for communicative disruptions seem possible when providers use different explanatory models and are not within the same health management system. We sought to describe the communication system surrounding the management of chronic pain from the perspectives of allopathic providers, acupuncture and chiropractor (A/C) providers, and CMP patients. METHODS We collected qualitative data from CMP patients (n = 90) and primary care physicians (PCPs) (n = 25) in a managed care system, and community acupuncture and chiropractic care providers (n = 14) who received high levels of referrals from the system, in the context of a longitudinal study of CMP patients' experience. RESULTS Multiple points of divergence and communicative barriers were identified among the main stakeholders in the system. Those that were most frequently mentioned included issues surrounding the referral process (requesting, approving) and lack of consistent information flow back to providers that impairs overall management of patient care. We found that because of these problems, CMP patients were frequently tasked and sometimes overwhelmed with integrating and coordinating their own care, with little help from the system. CONCLUSIONS Patients, PCPs, and A/C providers desire more communication; thus systems need to be created to facilitate more open communication which could positively benefit patient outcomes.
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Camilotti BM, Leite N, Alberti D, Francisco IA, Israel VL. Effects of Ai Chi and Yamamoto new scalp acupuncture on chronic low back pain. FISIOTERAPIA EM MOVIMENTO 2015. [DOI: 10.1590/0103-5150.028.004.ao09] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract Introduction : Low Back pain affects a large part of the population and represents a major socioeconomic problem. There are many resources for treatment of this symptom, among them: acupuncture and aquatic therapy. Objective : To compare the effects of an aquatic physical therapy program (AI CHI) and Yamamoto New Scalp Acupuncture (YNSA) in pain intensity and functionality in patients with chronic low back pain. Material and methods : a clinical trial with a randomized sample. Sixty six individuals with chronic low back pain, of both genders were selected, however 44 individuals completed the study. The individuals were divided into three groups AI CHI (n = 15), YNSA (n = 15) and Control (n = 14). Ten 10 interventions with a program of aquatic therapy method (Ai Chi) and Yamamoto New Scalp Acupuncture (YNSA), were made, twice a week. The control group received the intervention only after the end of the study. Pain intensity was assessed by a visual analogue scale (VAS) and the functional capacity by Owestry functionality Index. Results : There was significant reduction in pain and improvement in functional capacity (p < 0.05) in YNSA and AI CHI and when compared to the control group. Conclusion : It was concluded that the YNSA and AI CHI were effective in reducing pain and improving the functionality of the lumbar spine in patients with chronic low back pain.
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Froud R, Bjørkli T, Bright P, Rajendran D, Buchbinder R, Underwood M, Evans D, Eldridge S. The effect of journal impact factor, reporting conflicts, and reporting funding sources, on standardized effect sizes in back pain trials: a systematic review and meta-regression. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2015; 16:370. [PMID: 26620449 PMCID: PMC4663726 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-015-0825-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2015] [Accepted: 11/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low back pain is a common and costly health complaint for which there are several moderately effective treatments. In some fields there is evidence that funder and financial conflicts are associated with trial outcomes. It is not clear whether effect sizes in back pain trials relate to journal impact factor, reporting conflicts of interest, or reporting funding. METHODS We performed a systematic review of English-language papers reporting randomised controlled trials of treatments for non-specific low back pain, published between 2006-2012. We modelled the relationship using 5-year journal impact factor, and categories of reported of conflicts of interest, and categories of reported funding (reported none and reported some, compared to not reporting these) using meta-regression, adjusting for sample size, and publication year. We also considered whether impact factor could be predicted by the direction of outcome, or trial sample size. RESULTS We could abstract data to calculate effect size in 99 of 146 trials that met our inclusion criteria. Effect size is not associated with impact factor, reporting of funding source, or reporting of conflicts of interest. However, explicitly reporting 'no trial funding' is strongly associated with larger absolute values of effect size (adjusted β=1.02 (95 % CI 0.44 to 1.59), P=0.001). Impact factor increases by 0.008 (0.004 to 0.012) per unit increase in trial sample size (P<0.001), but does not differ by reported direction of the LBP trial outcome (P=0.270). CONCLUSIONS The absence of associations between effect size and impact factor, reporting sources of funding, and conflicts of interest reflects positively on research and publisher conduct in the field. Strong evidence of a large association between absolute magnitude of effect size and explicit reporting of 'no funding' suggests authors of unfunded trials are likely to report larger effect sizes, notwithstanding direction. This could relate in part to quality, resources, and/or how pragmatic a trial is.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Froud
- Clinical Trials Unit, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Gibbet Hill Road, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK.
- Norge Helsehøyskole,, Campus Kristiania, Prinsens Gate 7-9, 0152, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Tom Bjørkli
- Norge Helsehøyskole,, Campus Kristiania, Prinsens Gate 7-9, 0152, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Philip Bright
- European School of Osteopathy, The Street, ME14 3DZ Boxley, Maidstone, UK.
| | - Dévan Rajendran
- Norge Helsehøyskole,, Campus Kristiania, Prinsens Gate 7-9, 0152, Oslo, Norway.
- European School of Osteopathy, The Street, ME14 3DZ Boxley, Maidstone, UK.
| | - Rachelle Buchbinder
- Monash Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Cabrini Institute and Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Suite 41, Cabrini Medical Centre, 183 Wattletree Road, Malvern, 3144, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Martin Underwood
- Clinical Trials Unit, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Gibbet Hill Road, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK.
| | - David Evans
- Clinical Trials Unit, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Gibbet Hill Road, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK.
- Norge Helsehøyskole,, Campus Kristiania, Prinsens Gate 7-9, 0152, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Sandra Eldridge
- Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, 58 Turner Street, London, E1 2AB Whitechapel, UK.
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Factors influencing further acupuncture usage and a more positive outcome in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee and the hip: a 3-year follow-up of a randomized pragmatic trial. Clin J Pain 2015; 30:953-9. [PMID: 24346625 DOI: 10.1097/ajp.0000000000000062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Considering the chronicity of osteoarthritis-associated pain, we aimed to evaluate long-term outcome differences between patients who received immediate or delayed acupuncture in addition to usual care, and to identify predictors for further acupuncture usage and a better long-term outcome. MATERIALS AND METHODS The Acupuncture in Routine Care study was an open-label randomized pragmatic trial. As adjunct to usual care patients (>40 y, clinical and radiologic diagnosis of primary osteoarthritis of the knee or hip, pain duration >6 mo) received either immediate acupuncture in the first 3 months or delayed acupuncture in the subsequent 3 months. After 36 months 613 of 632 patients were available and asked to complete follow-up questionnaires. Primary outcome was the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). RESULTS A total of 500 (82%) of the contacted patients completed questionnaires. After 36 months the WOMAC Index did not differ significantly between groups (immediate acupuncture 36.53±26.19 vs. delayed acupuncture 38.24±25.54; P=0.420). Further acupuncture treatment during the follow-up period was reported by 202 patients and predicted by previous successful acupuncture treatment at baseline (odds ratio=2.5; 95% confidence interval, 1.6-3.9). Less osteoarthritis symptoms (WOMAC Index) after 36 months were predicted by being an acupuncture responder at 6 months (P<0.001), having higher school education (P=0.005), not wanting to use medications (P=0.016), and using additional therapies (P≤0.001 to P=0.025). DISCUSSION No long-term outcome differences were found between patients who received immediate versus those who received delayed acupuncture treatment. Education level and additional therapies were identified as predictors for a better long-term outcome.
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Gurung T, Ellard DR, Mistry D, Patel S, Underwood M. Identifying potential moderators for response to treatment in low back pain: A systematic review. Physiotherapy 2015; 101:243-51. [PMID: 25769189 DOI: 10.1016/j.physio.2015.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2014] [Accepted: 01/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Identifying which patients with non-specific low back pain are likely to gain the greatest benefit from different treatments is an important research priority. Few studies are large enough to produce data on sub-group effects from different treatments. Data from existing large studies may help identify potential moderators to use in future individual patient data meta-analyses. OBJECTIVE To systematically review papers of therapist delivered interventions for low back pain to identify potential moderators to inform an individual patient data meta-analysis. DATA SOURCES We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science and Citation Index and Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRALhttp://www.cochrane.org/editorial-and-publishing-policy-resource/cochrane-central-register-controlled-trials-central) for relevant papers. DATA EXTRACTION AND DATA SYNTHESIS We screened for randomised controlled trials with ≥500 or more participants, and cohort studies of ≥1000 or more participants. We examined all publications related to these studies for any reported moderator analyses. Two reviewers independently did risk of bias assessment of main results and quality assessment of any moderator analyses. RESULTS We included four randomised trials (n=7208). Potential moderators with strong evidence (p<0.05) in one or more studies were age, employment status and type, back pain status, narcotic medication use, treatment expectations and education. Potential moderators with weaker evidence (0.05<p≤0.20) included gender, psychological distress, pain/disability and quality of life. CONCLUSION There are insufficient robust data on moderators to be useful in clinical practice. This review has identified some important potential moderators of treatment effect worthy of testing in future confirmatory analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara Gurung
- Warwick Evidence, Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, The University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK.
| | - David R Ellard
- Clinical Trials Unit, Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, The University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK.
| | - Dipesh Mistry
- Clinical Trials Unit, Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, The University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK.
| | - Shilpa Patel
- Clinical Trials Unit, Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, The University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK.
| | - Martin Underwood
- Clinical Trials Unit, Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, The University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK.
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Evaluating the quality of subgroup analyses in randomized controlled trials of therapist-delivered interventions for nonspecific low back pain: a systematic review. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2014; 39:618-29. [PMID: 24480951 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0000000000000231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Systematic review. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the quality, conduct, and reporting of subgroup analyses performed in randomized controlled trials of therapist-delivered interventions for nonspecific low back pain (NSLBP). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Randomized controlled trials of therapist-delivered interventions for NSLBP to date have, at best, shown small to moderate positive effects. Identifying subgroups is an important research priority. This review evaluates the quality, conduct, and reporting of subgroup analyses performed in the NSLBP literature. METHODS Multiple electronic databases were searched for randomized controlled trials of therapist-delivered interventions for NSLBP. Of the identified articles, only articles reporting subgroup analyses (confirmatory or exploratory) were included in the final review. Methodological criteria were used to evaluate the quality of subgroup analyses. The quality of conduct and reporting was also evaluated. RESULTS Thirty-nine articles were included in the final review. Of these, only 3 (8%) tested hypotheses about moderators (confirmatory findings), 18 (46%) generated hypotheses about moderators to inform future research (exploratory findings), and 18 (46%) provided insufficient findings. The appropriate statistical test for interaction was performed in 27 of the articles, of which 10 reported results from interaction tests, 4 incorrectly reported results within individual subgroups, and the remaining articles reported either P values or nothing at all. CONCLUSION Subgroup analyses performed in NSLBP trials have been severely underpowered, are only able to provide exploratory or insufficient findings, and have rather poor quality of reporting. Using current approaches, few definitive trials of subgrouping in back pain are very likely to be performed. There is a need to develop new approaches to subgroup identification in back pain research.
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Sundberg T, Hagberg L, Zethraeus N, Wändell P, Falkenberg T. Integrative medicine for back and neck pain: Exploring cost-effectiveness alongside a randomized clinical pilot trial. Eur J Integr Med 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eujim.2013.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Stein KM, Weinberg J, Sherman KJ, Lemaster CM, Saper R. Participant Characteristics Associated with Symptomatic Improvement from Yoga for Chronic Low Back Pain. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 4:151. [PMID: 25401042 PMCID: PMC4228962 DOI: 10.4172/2157-7595.1000151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Context Studies suggest that yoga is effective for moderate to severe chronic low back pain (cLBP) in diverse predominantly lower socioeconomic status populations. However, little is known about factors associated with benefit from the yoga intervention. Objective Identify factors at baseline independently associated with greater efficacy among participants in a study of yoga for cLBP. Design From September–December 2011, a 12-week randomized dosing trial was conducted comparing weekly vs. twice-weekly 75-minute hatha yoga classes for 95 predominantly low-income minority adults with nonspecific cLBP. Participant characteristics collected at baseline were used to determine factors beyond treatment assignment (reported in the initial study) that predicted outcome. We used bivariate testing to identify baseline characteristics associated with improvement in function and pain, and included select factors in a multivariate linear regression. Setting Recruitment and classes occurred in an academic safety-net hospital and five affiliated community health centers in Boston, Massachusetts. Participants Ninety-five adults with nonspecific cLBP, ages ranging from 20–64 (mean 48) years; 72 women and 23 men. Outcome measures Primary outcomes were changes in back-related function (modified Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire, RMDQ; 0–23) and mean low back pain intensity (0–10) in the previous week, from baseline to week 12. Results Adjusting for group assignment, baseline RMDQ, age, and gender, foreign nationality and lower baseline SF36 physical component score (PCS) were independently associated with improvement in RMDQ. Greater than high school education level, cLBP less than 1 year, and lower baseline SF36 PCS were independently associated with improvement in pain intensity. Other demographics including race, income, gender, BMI, and use of pain medications were not associated with either outcome. Conclusions Poor physical health at baseline is associated with greater improvement from yoga in back-related function and pain. Race, income, and body mass index do not affect the potential for a person with low back pain to experience benefit from yoga.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim M Stein
- Boston University School of Medicine, USA ; Department of Family Medicine, University of Virginia Medical Center, USA
| | - Janice Weinberg
- Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, USA
| | - Karen J Sherman
- Group Health Research Institute, Group Health Cooperative, Seattle, WA and Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Chelsey M Lemaster
- Boston University School of Medicine, USA ; Department of Family Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, USA
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Manheimer E, van der Windt D, Cheng K, Stafford K, Liu J, Tierney J, Lao L, Berman BM, Langenberg P, Bouter LM. The effects of acupuncture on rates of clinical pregnancy among women undergoing in vitro fertilization: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Hum Reprod Update 2013; 19:696-713. [PMID: 23814102 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmt026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent systematic reviews of adjuvant acupuncture for IVF have pooled heterogeneous trials, without examining variables that might explain the heterogeneity. The aims of our meta-analysis were to quantify the overall pooled effects of adjuvant acupuncture on IVF clinical pregnancy success rates, and evaluate whether study design-, treatment- and population-related factors influence effect estimates. METHODS We included randomized controlled trials that compared needle acupuncture administered within 1 day of embryo transfer, versus sham acupuncture or no adjuvant treatment. Our primary outcome was clinical pregnancy rates. We obtained from all investigators additional methodological details and outcome data not included in their original publications. We analysed sham-controlled and no adjuvant treatment-controlled trials separately, but since there were no large or significant differences between these two subsets, we pooled all trials for subgroup analyses. We prespecified 11 subgroup variables (5 clinical and 6 methodological) to investigate sources of heterogeneity, using single covariate meta-regressions. RESULTS Sixteen trials (4021 participants) were included in the meta-analyses. There was no statistically significant difference between acupuncture and controls when combining all trials [risk ratio (RR) 1.12, 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.96-1.31; I(2) = 68%; 16 trials; 4021 participants], or when restricting to sham-controlled (RR 1.02, 0.83-1.26; I(2) = 66%; 7 trials; 2044 participants) or no adjuvant treatment-controlled trials (RR 1.22, 0.97-1.52; I(2) = 67%; 9 trials; 1977 participants). The type of control used did not significantly explain the statistical heterogeneity (interaction P = 0.27). Baseline pregnancy rate, measured as the observed rate of clinical pregnancy in the control group of each trial, was a statistically significant effect modifier (interaction P < 0.001), and this covariate explained most of the heterogeneity of the effects of adjuvant acupuncture across all trials (adjusted R(2) = 93%; I(2) residual = 9%). Trials with lower control group rates of clinical pregnancy showed larger effects of adjuvant acupuncture (RR 1.53, 1.28-1.84; 7 trials; 1732 participants) than trials with higher control group rates of clinical pregnancy (RR 0.90, 0.80-1.01; 9 trials; 2289 participants). The asymmetric funnel plot showed a tendency for the intervention effects to be more beneficial in smaller trials. CONCLUSIONS We found no pooled benefit of adjuvant acupuncture for IVF. The subgroup finding of a benefit in trials with lower, but not higher, baseline pregnancy rates (the only statistically significant subgroup finding in our earlier review) has been confirmed in this update, and was not explained by any confounding variables evaluated. However, this baseline pregnancy rate subgroup finding among published trials requires further confirmation and exploration in additional studies because of the multiple subgroup tests conducted, the risk of unidentified confounders, the multiple different factors that determine baseline rates, and the possibility of publication bias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Manheimer
- Center for Integrative Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
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Bishop FL, Lewith GT. Patients' preconceptions of acupuncture: a qualitative study exploring the decisions patients make when seeking acupuncture. Altern Ther Health Med 2013; 13:102. [PMID: 23664032 PMCID: PMC3658911 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6882-13-102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2012] [Accepted: 05/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Background Like any other form of healthcare, acupuncture takes place in a particular context which can enhance or diminish treatment outcomes (i.e. can produce contextual effects). Patients’ expectations of acupuncture might be an important component of contextual effects, but we know relatively little about the origins and nature of patients’ expectations or wider preconceptions about acupuncture. Our aim was to identify the processes the underpin patients’ decisions to try acupuncture and thus begin to tease out the origins and nature of patients’ preconceptions. Methods One-off semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive, varied sample of 35 adults who had tried acupuncture for various conditions. Interviews explored people’s experiences of acupuncture treatment and techniques from framework and inductive thematic analysis were used to relate the data to the research question. Results We identified four distinct processes within participants’ accounts of deciding to try acupuncture: establishing a need for treatment, establishing a need for a new treatment, deciding to try acupuncture, and finding an acupuncturist. Family, friends and health care professionals played a role in these processes, providing support, advice, and increasing people’s general familiarity with acupuncture. When they came to their first acupuncture appointment, participants had hopes, concerns, and occasionally concrete expectations as to the nature of acupuncture treatment and its likely effects. Conclusions Existing theories of how context influences health outcomes could be expanded to better reflect the psychological components identified here, such as hope, desire, optimism and open-mindedness. Future research on the context of acupuncture should consider these elements of the pre-treatment context in addition to more established components such as expectations. There appears to be a need for accessible (i.e. well-disseminated), credible, and individualised, patient-centred materials that can allay people’s concerns about the nature of acupuncture treatment and shape realistic hopes and expectations.
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Witt CM, Schützler L. The gap between results from sham-controlled trials and trials using other controls in acupuncture research-the influence of context. Complement Ther Med 2013; 21:112-4. [PMID: 23497814 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2012.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2012] [Accepted: 12/10/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
In chronic pain studies involving acupuncture treatments, the size of the effect between acupuncture and a sham acupuncture control is usually small. By contrast, when acupuncture is compared to an active control group (usual care or standard treatment), the size of the effect is generally moderate and clinically relevant. Factors such as treatment setting, the expectations of patient and practitioner, and the interaction between patient and practitioner differ for different treatments and may influence the study outcome. In acupuncture, these factors seem to play a role. Acupuncture research is helpful in stimulating placebo research and illuminates a variety of aspects that influence the placebo response. The influence of different types of patient-practitioner interaction and their underlying mechanisms seem to be a clinically relevant area for future research, but should be researched in less complex placebo models than sham acupuncture.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Witt
- Charité University Medical Center, Institute for Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Berlin, Germany.
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Yao E, Gerritz PK, Henricson E, Abresch T, Kim J, Han J, Wang K, Zhao H. Randomized controlled trial comparing acupuncture with placebo acupuncture for the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. PM R 2012; 4:367-73. [PMID: 22405683 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmrj.2012.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2011] [Revised: 11/23/2011] [Accepted: 01/14/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the efficacy of acupuncture for the treatment of mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). DESIGN Prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded study. SETTING Single-center study. PARTICIPANTS Forty-one acupuncture-naïve adult subjects with mild to moderate CTS enrolled in the study. Thirty-four subjects completed the study. METHODS Clinical diagnosis of CTS was supported by electrodiagnostic findings. Subjects were randomly assigned to either (1) acupuncture (n = 21) or (2) placebo acupuncture (n = 20) with use of Streitberger placebo acupuncture needles. Both groups received weekly sessions of acupuncture for 6 weeks. Wrist braces were provided to both groups to wear at night, and compliance was monitored. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS The primary outcome measurement was subject-reported change in the Carpal Tunnel Self Assessment Questionnaire (CTSAQ) Symptom and Function scales immediately after and at 2 weeks and 3 months after the final treatment. The secondary outcomes included tip and key pinch strength and combined sensory index. RESULTS Compared with pretreatment baseline values, subjects in the acupuncture group had 0.58 improvement (P = .03) on the CTSAQ Symptom scale score at 3 months after the last treatment, whereas 0.81 improvement (P = .001) was noted in the placebo acupuncture group. No statistically significant difference was found between the groups treated with acupuncture and placebo acupuncture with respect to improvement in CTS symptoms, function, tip/key pinch, or combined sensory index. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this study is the first randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded prospective study of traditional acupuncture for CTS. Both the treatment and placebo groups demonstrated improvements from baseline. Acupuncture was not shown to be superior to placebo acupuncture when used in conjunction with bracing for patients with mild to moderate CTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Yao
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of California, Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, USA.
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DeBar LL, Elder C, Ritenbaugh C, Aickin M, Deyo R, Meenan R, Dickerson J, Webster JA, Jo Yarborough B. Acupuncture and chiropractic care for chronic pain in an integrated health plan: a mixed methods study. BMC COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2011; 11:118. [PMID: 22118061 PMCID: PMC3256110 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6882-11-118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2011] [Accepted: 11/25/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Substantial recent research examines the efficacy of many types of complementary and alternative (CAM) therapies. However, outcomes associated with the "real-world" use of CAM has been largely overlooked, despite calls for CAM therapies to be studied in the manner in which they are practiced. Americans seek CAM treatments far more often for chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP) than for any other condition. Among CAM treatments for CMP, acupuncture and chiropractic (A/C) care are among those with the highest acceptance by physician groups and the best evidence to support their use. Further, recent alarming increases in delivery of opioid treatment and surgical interventions for chronic pain--despite their high costs, potential adverse effects, and modest efficacy--suggests the need to evaluate real world outcomes associated with promising non-pharmacological/non-surgical CAM treatments for CMP, which are often well accepted by patients and increasingly used in the community. METHODS/DESIGN This multi-phase, mixed methods study will: (1) conduct a retrospective study using information from electronic medical records (EMRs) of a large HMO to identify unique clusters of patients with CMP (e.g., those with differing demographics, histories of pain condition, use of allopathic and CAM health services, and comorbidity profiles) that may be associated with different propensities for A/C utilization and/or differential outcomes associated with such care; (2) use qualitative interviews to explore allopathic providers' recommendations for A/C and patients' decisions to pursue and retain CAM care; and (3) prospectively evaluate health services/costs and broader clinical and functional outcomes associated with the receipt of A/C relative to carefully matched comparison participants receiving traditional CMP services. Sensitivity analyses will compare methods relying solely on EMR-derived data versus analyses supplementing EMR data with conventionally collected patient and clinician data. DISCUSSION Successful completion of these aggregate aims will provide an evaluation of outcomes associated with the real-world use of A/C services. The trio of retrospective, qualitative, and prospective study will also provide a clearer understanding of the decision-making processes behind the use of A/C for CMP and a transportable methodology that can be applied to other health care settings, CAM treatments, and clinical populations. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01345409.
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Patient characteristics and variation in treatment outcomes: which patients benefit most from acupuncture for chronic pain? Clin J Pain 2011; 27:550-5. [PMID: 21317771 DOI: 10.1097/ajp.0b013e31820dfbf5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to identify patients' characteristics that increase or decrease their benefit from acupuncture treatment of chronic pain. METHODS Patients with chronic low back pain, headache, neck pain, or pain due to osteoarthritis of the knee or hip, were included in 4 multicenter, randomized, controlled studies, all conducted in Germany. All patients received routine care; the patients randomized to the acupuncture group received additional acupuncture treatment. Data were pooled, and the main outcome was defined as the 3-month change from baseline of the SF-36 bodily pain subscale. To identify predictors for treatment effects and effect modifiers (ie, variables that interact with the form of treatment), patients' characteristics and their interaction with treatment were included in a mixed linear model to predict treatment outcome. RESULTS A total of 9,990 patients who were treated by 2,781 physicians were analyzed. The outcome was markedly improved in the acupuncture group (P < 0.001). Age, education, duration of illness, baseline pain, and some concomitant diseases predicted treatment outcome in both groups. Patients' characteristics that enlarged the acupuncture effect (ie, acted as effect modifiers) were being female (P = 0.028), living in a multi-person household (P = 0.002), failure of other therapies before the study (P = 0.049), and former positive acupuncture experience (P = 0.005). DISCUSSION Future research to clarify the modifying effects with special focus on patients' expectations and other psychological variables is needed.
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Underwood M, Mistry D, Lall R, Lamb S. Predicting response to a cognitive-behavioral approach to treating low back pain: Secondary analysis of the BeST data set. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2011; 63:1271-9. [DOI: 10.1002/acr.20518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Abstract
The determination of whether a patient should pursue an active or passive treatment program is often made by medical practitioners. Knowledge about all forms of treatment, including complementary and alternative (CAM) treatments, is essential in the treatment of low back pain. Medical practitioner-directed active treatments that have been shown to be effective for the treatment of low back pain include physical therapy-directed exercise programs such as core stabilization and mechanical diagnosis and therapy (MDT). Based on the current literature, it appears that yoga is the most effective nonphysician-directed active treatment approach to nonspecific low back pain when comparing other CAM treatments. Acupuncture is a medical practitioner-directed passive treatment that has been shown to be a good adjunct treatment. More randomized controlled studies are needed to support both CAM treatments and exercise in the treatment of low back pain.
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Ali A, Vitulano LA. A brief report: Yale Research Symposium on Complementary and Integrative Medicine. THE YALE JOURNAL OF BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2010; 83:123-5. [PMID: 20885898 PMCID: PMC2946124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The 2010 Yale Research Symposium on Complementary and Integrative Medicine highlighted original research in related areas by Yale faculty and provided a forum to discuss and debate issues of evidence and plausibility. In this brief report, we describe selected presentations on such diverse foci as nutritional influences on cancer, acupuncture for low back pain, protein intake's effects on bone consumption, Chinese herb-derived adjuvant chemotherapy, and the relationship between anger and cardiac arrhythmia. This symposium demonstrated that rigorous research methods are being used to study unconventional therapies and that an integrative medicine approach requires a solid scientific foundation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ather Ali
- Assistant Director of Integrative Medicine, Prevention Research Center and Associate Research Scientist, Department of Pediatrics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut,To whom all correspondence should be addressed: Ather Ali, Prevention Research Center, 130 Division Street, Derby, CT 06418; Tele: 203-732-1265 x210; E-mail:
| | - Lawrence A. Vitulano
- Associate Clinical Professor, Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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