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Han S, Park KS, Lee H, Kim E, Zhu X, Lee JM, Suh HS. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for pain control in women with primary dysmenorrhoea. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2024; 7:CD013331. [PMID: 39037764 PMCID: PMC11262556 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013331.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a non-pharmacological treatment that works by delivering electrical currents via electrodes attached to the skin at the site of pain. It can be an alternative to pharmacological treatments. The mechanism of action of TENS for pain relief is related to the inhibition of the transmission of painful stimuli, release of endogenous opioids, and reduced muscle ischaemia of the uterus. Although it has been used for primary dysmenorrhoea ((PD); period pain or menstrual cramps), evidence of the efficacy and safety of high-frequency TENS, low-frequency TENS, or other treatments for PD is limited. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) in comparison with placebo, no treatment, and other treatments for primary dysmenorrhoea (PD). SEARCH METHODS We searched the Gynaecology and Fertility Group's Specialized Register of controlled trials, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, AMED, CINAHL, and the Korean and Chinese language databases up to 9 April 2024. We also searched for ongoing trials in trials registries and the reference lists of relevant studies for additional trials. Language restrictions were not applied. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that included women (aged 12 to 49 years) with PD. Included trials compared low-frequency TENS or high-frequency TENS with other TENS, placebo, or other treatment. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Four review authors screened the trials, extracted the data according to the protocol, assessed the risk of bias using RoB 2, and assessed the certainty of evidence for all review comparisons and primary outcomes (i.e. pain relief and adverse effects) using the GRADE approach. MAIN RESULTS This review replaces the current review, published in 2009. We included 20 RCTs involving 585 randomized women with high-frequency TENS, low-frequency TENS, placebo or no treatment, or other treatment. We included five comparisons: high-frequency TENS versus placebo or no treatment, low-frequency TENS versus placebo or no treatment, high-frequency TENS versus low-frequency TENS, high-frequency TENS versus other treatments, and low-frequency TENS versus other treatments. High-frequency TENS versus placebo or no treatment High-frequency TENS may reduce pain compared with placebo or no treatment (mean difference (MD) -1.39, 95% confidence interval (CI) -2.51 to -0.28; 10 RCTs, 345 women; low-certainty evidence; I2 = 88%). Two out of three RCTs reported no adverse effects and hence we were unable to estimate the effect of high-frequency TENS on adverse effects. Low-frequency TENS versus placebo or no treatment Low-frequency TENS may reduce pain compared with placebo or no treatment (MD -2.04, 95% CI -2.95 to -1.14; 3 RCTs, 645 women; low-certainty evidence; I2 = 0%). No trials reported adverse effects for this comparison. High-frequency TENS versus low-frequency TENS It is uncertain whether high-frequency TENS had an effect on pain relief compared with low-frequency TENS (MD 0.89, 95% CI -0.19 to 1.96; 3 RCTs, 54 women; low-certainty evidence; I2 = 0%). One trial contributed data on adverse effects but no adverse events occurred. High-frequency TENS versus other treatments It is uncertain whether high-frequency TENS had an effect on pain relief compared to acupressure (MD -0.66, 95% CI -1.72 to 0.40; 1 RCT, 18 women; very low-certainty evidence), acetaminophen (paracetamol) (MD -0.98, 95% CI -3.30 to 1.34; 1 RCT, 20 women; very low-certainty evidence), and interferential current therapy (MD -0.03, 95% CI -1.04 to 0.98; 2 RCTs, 62 women; low-certainty evidence; I2 = 0%). The occurrence of adverse effects did not differ significantly between high-frequency TENS and NSAIDs (OR 12.06, 95% CI 0.26 to 570.62; 2 RCTs, 88 women; low-certainty evidence; I2 = 78%). Low-frequency TENS versus other treatments It is uncertain whether low-frequency TENS had an effect on pain relief compared with acetaminophen (MD -1.48, 95% CI -3.61 to 0.65; 1 RCT, 20 women; very low-certainty evidence). No trials reported adverse effects for this comparison. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS High-frequency TENS and low-frequency TENS may reduce pain compared with placebo or no treatment. We downgraded the certainty of the evidence because of the risk of bias. Future RCTs should focus more on secondary outcomes of this review (e.g. requirement for additional analgesics, limitation of daily activities, or health-related quality of life) and should be designed to ensure a low risk of bias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sola Han
- College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | | | - Hojung Lee
- Oriental Medicine, Dongguk University in Los Angeles (DULA), Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Eunji Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Pusan National University, Busan, Korea, South
| | - Xiaoshu Zhu
- Chinese Medicine Centre, School of Science and Health, NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jin Moo Lee
- Korean Medicine Obstetrics & Gynecology, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea, South
| | - Hae Sun Suh
- College of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea, South
- Institute of Regulatory Innovation through Science (IRIS), Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea, South
- Department of Regulatory Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea, South
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Qin H, Feng J, Wu X. Effects and mechanisms of acupuncture on women related health. Front Med 2024; 18:46-67. [PMID: 38151668 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-023-1051-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Globally, public health interventions have resulted in a 30-year increase in women's life expectancy. However, women's health has not increased when socioeconomic status is ignored. Women's health has become a major public health concern, for those women from developing countries are still struggling with infectious and labor-related diseases, and their counterparts in developed countries are suffering from physical and psychological disorders. In recent years, complementary and alternative medicine has attracted wide attentions with regards to maintaining women's health. Acupuncture, a crucial component of traditional Chinese medicine, has been used to treat many obstetric and gynecological diseases for thousands of years due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects and its effects on stimulating the sympathetic/parasympathetic nervous system. To fully understand the mechanism through which acupuncture exerts its effects in these diseases would significantly extend the list of available interventions and would allow for more reasonable advice to be given to general practitioners. Therefore, by searching PubMed and CNKI regarding the use of acupuncture in treating obstetric and gynecological diseases, we aimed to summarize the proven evidence of using acupuncture in maintaining women's health by considering both its effectiveness and the underlying mechanisms behind its effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huichao Qin
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Heilongjiang Provincial Hospital, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150036, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, China
| | - Jiaxing Feng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, China
| | - Xiaoke Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, China.
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Giese N, Kwon KK, Armour M. Acupuncture for endometriosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Integr Med Res 2023; 12:101003. [PMID: 38033648 PMCID: PMC10682677 DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2023.101003] [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: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Current endometriosis treatments do not always provide symptom relief, with many using complementary approaches. This study examined the effectiveness of acupuncture on pain and quality of life in people with endometriosis. Methods Searches were conducted on Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PubMed, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database (AMED) and Embase (Ovid), Epistemonikos, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL; EBSCOhost) on 20 March 2023. Trials were included if they used penetrating acupuncture. Risk of bias was assessed with Cochrane RoB2 and GRADE for overall evidence certainty. Random-effects meta-analyses were undertaken, using Hedges' g or mean difference (MD) both with 95 % confidence intervals (CI). Results Six studies involving a total of 331 participants were included. Evidence for benefit was found for acupuncture compared to non-specific acupuncture on overall pelvic pain (g = 1.54, 95 % CI 0.92 to 2.16, 3 RCTs, n = 231, low certainty evidence, p<0.001), menstrual pain (g = 1.67, 95 % CI 1.23 to 2.12, 1 RCT, n = 106, moderate certainty evidence, p<0.001), and non-specified pelvic pain (MD -2.77, 95 % CI 2.15 to 3.38, 2 RCTs, n = 125, low certainty evidence, p<0.001), and compared to usual care on menstrual pain (g = 0.9, 95 % CI 0.15 to 1.64, 1 RCT, n = 19, very low certainty evidence, p = 0.02). Most studies reported low rates of adverse events. Conclusion Acupuncture treatment for endometriosis demonstrated clinically relevant improvements in pelvic pain and should be considered as a potential treatment intervention. Study registration PROSPERO ID: CRD42023408700.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora Giese
- Praxis für Chinesische Medizin, Bonn, Germany
| | - Ki Kyung Kwon
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia
| | - Mike Armour
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia
- Translational Health Research Institute (THRI), Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia
- Medical Research Institute of New Zealand (MRINZ), Wellington, New Zealand
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Dong Y, Li MJ, Hong YZ, Li WJ. Insight into Dysmenorrhea Research from 1992 to 2022: A Bibliometric Analysis. J Pain Res 2023; 16:3591-3611. [PMID: 37915864 PMCID: PMC10617534 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s430233] [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: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Dysmenorrhea, classified as primary dysmenorrhea and secondary dysmenorrhea, is a common gynecological symptom that seriously affects female daily life. At present, studies on dysmenorrhea are numerous and complex. To better reflect the trend and innovative progress of dysmenorrhea-related research, this study screened papers on the Web of Science from January 1, 1992, to December 31, 2022. A total of 1012 papers were selected and analyzed for their affiliated countries, institutions, authors, keywords, etc. China is the country with the most academic output, Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine is the most influential institution, and Yang Jie, from Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China, is the scholar with the most papers. We consider that the current research focus is on pathogenesis, treatment, epidemiology, and self-management. With increasing research on functional connectivity between dysmenorrhea and various brain regions, functional connectivity has gradually become the forefront of research. We hope our study can promote the further study of dysmenorrhea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin Dong
- Putuo Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ming-Jing Li
- Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yan-Zhu Hong
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wen-Jie Li
- Shanghai Innovation Center of TCM Health Service, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
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Tuo L, Tang S, Li S, Gu S, Xie Z. Murine Models and Research Progress on Dysmenorrhea. Reprod Sci 2023:10.1007/s43032-023-01220-0. [PMID: 37010703 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01220-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023]
Abstract
Dysmenorrhea is a prevalent gynecological disease among women at reproductive age. It is classified as the primary dysmenorrhea and the secondary dysmenorrhea according to the etiology. The primary dysmenorrhea is caused by uterine hypercontraction without any identifiable pelvic lesions, while the secondary dysmenorrhea is incurred by gynecological disorder with pelvic organic lesions. However, the underlying mechanism of dysmenorrhea is not completely clear. Animal models of dysmenorrhea, especially mouse and rat model, are helpful to explore the pathophysiological mechanism of dysmenorrhea, clarify the therapeutic effect of compounds, and guide clinical treatment. The murine model of primary dysmenorrhea is commonly induced by oxytocin or prostaglandin F2α, while the secondary dysmenorrhea murine model was further created by injecting oxytocin on the basis of the established primary disease model. This review summarizes the current progress of dysmenorrhea models in rodent, including experimental methods, corresponding evaluation indexes, and the advantages and disadvantages of various murine dysmenorrhea models, in order to provide a reference for the selection of murine dysmenorrhea models and the further study of the pathophysiological mechanism of dysmenorrhea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Tuo
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan Province, China
| | - Simiao Tang
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan Province, China
| | - Shiyan Li
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan Province, China
| | - Shuyi Gu
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan Province, China
| | - Zhizhong Xie
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan Province, China.
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Dong X, Yang J, Wei W, Chen L, Su M, Li A, Guo X, Liu L, Li S, Yu S, Zeng F. Efficacy and cerebral mechanism of acupuncture and moxibustion for treating primary dysmenorrhea: study protocol for a randomized controlled clinical trial. Trials 2022; 23:964. [DOI: 10.1186/s13063-022-06675-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Acupuncture or moxibustion has been proven to be effective for patients with primary dysmenorrhea (PDM). However, the respective advantages and potential central mechanism of acupuncture and moxibustion are worthy of investigating to promote their further application.
Methods
In this randomized controlled neuroimaging trial, 72 patients with PDM will be randomly assigned to three groups: acupuncture treatment group, moxibustion treatment group, and waiting list group. The acupuncture treatment group and moxibustion treatment group will receive acupuncture or moxibustion, respectively, for a total of 3 sessions over 3 consecutive menstrual cycles, and the waiting list group will not take acupuncture or moxibustion during these 3 menstrual cycles. The COX Menstrual Symptom Scale (CMSS), visual analog scale (VAS), and Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) will be used to evaluate the clinical efficacy. The Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS), Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), and 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) will be used to assess the mental state and quality of life at baseline and at the end of treatment. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) will be performed for detecting the cerebral activity changes at baseline and at the end of the treatment. The clinical data and imaging data will be analyzed among the groups. Correlation analysis will be conducted to investigate the relationship between brain functional changes and symptom improvement.
Discussion
The application of the randomized controlled neuroimaging trial will provide objective and valid evidence about how acupuncture and moxibustion treatment relieve menstrual pain. The results of this study would be useful to confirm the potential similarities and differences between acupuncture and moxibustion in clinical efficacy and central mechanism for patients with PDM.
Trial registration
Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2100043732. Registered on 27 February 2021
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Yöndem ZN, Çıtak Bilgin N. Dysmenorrhea among hospital nurses and its effects on work life*,**,***. Health Care Women Int 2022; 43:997-1014. [DOI: 10.1080/07399332.2020.1800015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Nevin Çıtak Bilgin
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing, Bolu Abant İzzet Baysal University, Bolu, Turkey
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Xiang H, Zhang T, Al-Danakh A, Yang D, Wang L. Neuromodulation in Chronic Pelvic Pain: A Narrative Review. Pain Ther 2022; 11:789-816. [PMID: 35834103 PMCID: PMC9314476 DOI: 10.1007/s40122-022-00405-w] [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: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic primary pelvic pain syndrome (CPPPS) is a heterogeneous disease with unknown pathogenesis and a lack of distinct pathological features, which complicates diagnosis and therapy and has a significant impact on patients' daily life. Because pharmacological management is ineffective and long-term use may result in additional system damage, developing a more effective treatment is critical. Neuromodulation has advanced rapidly over the last few decades, and various types of neuromodulations have demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of CPPPS. In this article we discuss the evolution of neuromodulation technology in the treatment of chronic pelvic pain, its application to various subtypes of chronic pelvic pain, and the comparison of relevant efficacy and parameter differences, as well as assess the relative advantages and disadvantages of sacral neuromodulation, percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation , transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, electroacupuncture, and pudendal neuromodulation. Furthermore, it was noted that chronic pelvic pain should be evaluated in terms of pain, associated symptoms, psychological problems, and quality of life. Although neuromodulation approaches have been shown to be effective in treating chronic pelvic pain, more extensive multicenter trials are required to confirm this.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Xiang
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Zhongshan Road No. 222, Dalian, 116021, China
| | - Tingting Zhang
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Zhongshan Road No. 222, Dalian, 116011, China
| | - Abdullah Al-Danakh
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Zhongshan Road No. 222, Dalian, 116021, China
| | - Deyong Yang
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Zhongshan Road No. 222, Dalian, 116021, China.
- Healinghands (Dalian) Clinic, Dalian, Liaoning, China.
| | - Lina Wang
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Zhongshan Road No. 222, Dalian, 116021, China.
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Xu J, Xie H, Liu L, Shen Z, Yang L, Wei W, Guo X, Liang F, Yu S, Yang J. Brain Mechanism of Acupuncture Treatment of Chronic Pain: An Individual-Level Positron Emission Tomography Study. Front Neurol 2022; 13:884770. [PMID: 35585847 PMCID: PMC9108276 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.884770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
ObjectiveAcupuncture has been shown to be effective in the treatment of chronic pain. However, their neural mechanism underlying the effective acupuncture response to chronic pain is still unclear. We investigated whether metabolic patterns in the pain matrix network might predict acupuncture therapy responses in patients with primary dysmenorrhea (PDM) using a machine-learning-based multivariate pattern analysis (MVPA) on positron emission tomography data (PET).MethodsForty-two patients with PDM were selected and randomized into two groups: real acupuncture and sham acupuncture (three menstrual cycles). Brain metabolic data from the three special brain networks (the sensorimotor network (SMN), default mode network (DMN), and salience network (SN)) were extracted at the individual level by using PETSurfer in fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18F-FDG-PET) data. MVPA analysis based on metabolic network features was employed to predict the pain relief after treatment in the pooled group and real acupuncture treatment, separately.ResultsPaired t-tests revealed significant alterations in pain intensity after real but not sham acupuncture treatment. Traditional mass-univariate correlations between brain metabolic and alterations in pain intensity were not significant. The MVPA results showed that the brain metabolic pattern in the DMN and SMN did predict the pain relief in the pooled group of patients with PDM (R2 = 0.25, p = 0.005). In addition, the metabolic pattern in the DMN could predict the pain relief after treatment in the real acupuncture treatment group (R2 = 0.40, p = 0.01).ConclusionThis study indicates that the individual-level metabolic patterns in DMN is associated with real acupuncture treatment response in chronic pain. The present findings advanced the knowledge of the brain mechanism of the acupuncture treatment in chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Xu
- Department of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongjun Xie
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Liying Liu
- Department of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhifu Shen
- Department of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Lu Yang
- Department of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Department of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoli Guo
- Department of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Fanrong Liang
- Department of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Siyi Yu
- Department of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Siyi Yu
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Jie Yang
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Graca S, Betts D, Roberts K, Smith CA, Armour M. The changing clinical landscape in acupuncture for women's health: a cross-sectional online survey in New Zealand and Australia. BMC Complement Med Ther 2022; 22:94. [PMID: 35361171 PMCID: PMC8973511 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-022-03576-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Acupuncture is a popular treatment for women’s health. Several trials and meta-analysis have been published in recent years on key women’s health conditions but it is unclear if this has led to any changes in clinical practice or referrals from other health professionals. The aim of this survey was to explore if, how, and why, aspects of acupuncture practice have changed since our survey in 2013. Method An online cross-sectional survey of registered acupuncturists and Chinese Medicine practitioners in Australia and New Zealand. Questions covered the practitioner demographics and training, women’s health conditions commonly treated, modalities used, sources of information and continuing education (CE) (e.g. webinars), changes in clinical practice, and referral networks. Results One hundred and seventy registered practitioners responded to this survey, with 93% reporting treating women’s health in the last 12 months. The majority of respondents were from Australia (60%), held a bachelors level qualification (60%), and used a traditional Chinese medicine framework (86%). Most practitioners incorporated other modalities in addition to acupuncture. Most practitioners’ referral networks were predominantly based on word of mouth for menstrual, fertility and pregnancy related conditions, with referrals from medical practitioners being much less common. More than half (57%) reported having changed their women’s health practice in the past 12 months; just over a quarter of those who changed treatment (27%) reported it was due to research findings. The most commonly used sources of information/CE used to inform treatment were webinars and conferences, while peer-reviewed journal articles were the least commonly used source. Conclusion Acupuncture practitioners in Australia and New Zealand commonly treat women’s health conditions, but this is usually the result of women seeking them out, rather than being referred from a medical practitioner. The majority of practitioners did report changing their women’s health practice, but peer reviewed academic articles alone are not an ideal medium to convey this information since practitioners favour knowledge obtained from webinars and conferences. Academics and other clinician researchers should consider alternative means of disseminating knowledge beyond traditional academic publications and conferences, special interest groups may assist in this and also help improve research literacy. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12906-022-03576-3.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Debra Betts
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia
| | - Kate Roberts
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia
| | - Caroline A Smith
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia.,Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia
| | - Mike Armour
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia. .,Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia. .,Medical Research Institute of New Zealand (MRINZ), Wellington, New Zealand.
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The Effect of Electroacupuncture Treatment with Different Intensities for Functional Diarrhea: A Randomized Controlled Trial. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:2564979. [PMID: 35027932 PMCID: PMC8752238 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2564979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background Electroacupuncture (EA) may have a role in the treatment of diarrhea symptoms. However, the efficacy and safety of EA with different current intensities in improving gastrointestinal function, psychology, and quality of life (QOL) of functional diarrhea (FD) remain unknown. Objective To investigate the efficacy and safety of EA with different current intensities in improving gastrointestinal function, psychology, and QOL for FD patients. Methods 73 FD patients were randomly divided into three groups: low current intensity group (LI) of EA, high current intensity group (HI) of EA, and loperamide control group (LC). Four weeks of treatment were provided in the three groups. The primary outcome was the proportion of normal defecation. Additional outcomes included the change from baseline for the weekly spontaneous bowel movements (SBMs) and the change from baseline for the mean Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS). QOL was assessed by the 36-item short-form health survey (SF-36). Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) and Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS) were used to assess the psychology state. Results Low current intensity of EA significantly improved the proportion of normal defecation during treatment and follow-up period (P < 0.01). EA significantly improves the mean BSFS scores and weekly SBMs, and this efficacy is equivalent to loperamide (P < 0.05). The SF-36 scores of general health in LI and HI groups and vitality and mental health in LI group were significantly increased compared to baseline (P < 0.05). Low current intensity of EA can significantly improve SAS and SDS scores (P < 0.05). Conclusions EA significantly improved stool consistency and weekly SBMs in FD patients. Compared with loperamide, low current intensity of EA may have a better sustainable effect in restoring normal defecation in patients with FD, and it can also effectively improve QOL, anxiety, and depression. However, larger sample sizes are needed to determine safety and efficacy. Trial registration number: NCT01274793.
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Strong Twirling-Rotating Manual Acupuncture with 4 r/s Is Superior to 2 r/s in Relieving Pain by Activating C-Fibers in Rat Models of CFA-Induced Pain. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:5528780. [PMID: 34675986 PMCID: PMC8526210 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5528780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Background Manual acupuncture (MA) with different stimulus frequencies may give rise to varying acupuncture effects. However, the intensity-effect relationship and the underlying mechanisms of MA remain unclear. Objective To compare the analgesic effects of different frequencies of twirling-rotating MA on rats with complete Freund's adjuvant- (CFA-) induced pain and explore the underlying mechanism via peripheral sensory nerves. Methods First, 36 healthy male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 6 groups: control group, 2 r/s MA group (twirling-rotating MA with the frequency of 2 revolutions per second), 4 r/s MA group (twirling-rotating MA with the frequency of 4 revolutions per second), CFA group, CFA + 2 r/s MA group, and CFA + 4 r/s MA group. Rats in three CFA groups received an intraplantar injection of CFA to establish a pain model, while the rats in other three groups received an intraplantar injection of saline. Rats in the 2 r/s MA group and 4 r/s MA group were treated with the corresponding frequencies of twirling-rotating MA on bilateral Zusanli (ST36) and Kunlun (BL60) for 7 days. The ipsilateral nociceptive thresholds (paw withdrawal latency; PWL) were tested to evaluate the analgesic effects. Second, 9 healthy male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: control group, 2 r/s MA group, and 4 r/s MA group. The proportion of C-fiber neurons (calcitonin gene-related peptide- (CGRP-) positive neurons) and A-fiber neurons (neurofilament 200- (NF200-) positive neurons) in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) activated by MA were quantitatively analyzed with the morphological immunofluorescence staining method. Third, 30 healthy male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 6 groups: control group, CFA group, CFA + 2 r/s MA group, CFA + 2 r/s MA + RTX group, CFA + 4 r/s MA group, and CFA + 4 r/s MA + RTX group. Resiniferatoxin (RTX) was injected into the acupoints before acupuncture. PWL was evaluated to investigate the analgesic effect. Results Both types of MA treatment increased the PWL of saline-injecting rats and pain model rats. Moreover, 4 r/s MA was superior to 2 r/s MA in increasing PWL. A higher quantity of excited C-fiber neurons was observed following 4 r/s MA than 2 r/s MA, while the reverse was observed in the activation of A-fiber neurons. Following the injection of RTX to inhibit the activation of C-fibers, the analgesic effect of 4 r/s MA reduced significantly but not of 2 r/s MA. Conclusion Strong MA (4 r/s MA) has superior analgesic effects to gentle MA (2 r/s MA) on CFA model rats, which is associated with C-fiber activation.
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Arentz S, Smith C, Redmond R, Abbott J, Armour M. A cross-sectional study of traditional Chinese medicine practitioner's knowledge, treatment strategies and integration of practice of chronic pelvic pain in women. BMC Complement Med Ther 2021; 21:174. [PMID: 34167548 PMCID: PMC8229696 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-021-03355-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) in women is persistent, intermittent cyclical and non-cyclical lower abdominal pain, lasting for more than 6 months. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a popular treatment option for women's health conditions, but little is known about how treatment for CPP is delivered by TCM practitioners. The aim of this survey was to explore practitioners understanding and treatment of women with CPP, and how they integrate their management and care into the health care system. METHOD An online cross-sectional survey of registered TCM practitioners in Australia and New Zealand between May and October 2018. Survey domains included treatment characteristics (e.g. frequency), evaluation of treatment efficacy, referral networks, and sources of information that informed clinical decision making. RESULTS One hundred and twenty-two registered TCM practitioners responded to this survey, 91.7% reported regular treatment of women with CPP. Treatment decisions were most-often guided by a combination of biomedical and TCM diagnosis (77.6%), and once per week was the most common treatment frequency (66.7%) for acupuncture. Meditation (63.7%) and dietary changes (57.8%) were other commonly used approaches to management. The effectiveness of treatment was assessed using multiple approaches, most commonly pain scales, (such as the numeric rating scale) and any change in use of analgesic medications. Limitations to TCM treatment were reported by over three quarters (83.7%) of practitioners, most commonly due to cost (56.5%) and inconvenience (40.2%) rather than safety or lack of efficacy. Sources informing practice were most often Integration within the wider healthcare system was common with over two thirds (67.9%) receiving referrals from health care providers. CONCLUSION TCM practitioners seeing women with various CPP symptoms, commonly incorporate both traditional and modern diagnostic methods to inform their treatment plan, monitor treatment progress using commonly accepted approaches and measures and often as a part of multidisciplinary healthcare for women with CPP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Arentz
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW, 2751, Australia
| | - Caroline Smith
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW, 2751, Australia
- Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW, 2751, Australia
| | - Rebecca Redmond
- Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
- Office of Research, Endeavour College of Natural Health, Fortitude Valley, QLD, Australia
| | - Jason Abbott
- School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Barker Street, Randwick, NSW, 2031, Australia
| | - Mike Armour
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW, 2751, Australia.
- Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW, 2751, Australia.
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14
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Armour M, Cave AE, Schabrun SM, Steiner GZ, Zhu X, Song J, Abbott J, Smith CA. Manual Acupuncture Plus Usual Care Versus Usual Care Alone in the Treatment of Endometriosis-Related Chronic Pelvic Pain: A Randomized Controlled Feasibility Study. J Altern Complement Med 2021; 27:841-849. [PMID: 34161143 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2021.0004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To determine the acceptability and feasibility of acupuncture for the treatment of endometriosis-related chronic pelvic pain. Design: A prospective, randomized controlled feasibility study. Setting: Outpatient setting in Sydney, Australia. Subjects: Participants who were aged 18-45 years, had a confirmed laparoscopic diagnosis of endometriosis in the past 5 years, and had regular menstrual periods and mean pelvic pain scores ≥4/10. Interventions: Sixteen acupuncture treatments delivered by registered acupuncturists using a standardized point protocol over 8 weeks, twice per week plus usual care compared with usual care alone. Outcome measures: Primary outcome measures were feasibility, safety, and acceptability of the acupuncture intervention. Secondary outcomes were changes in self-reported pelvic pain scores, changes in quality of life as measured by the Endometriosis Health Profile (EHP-30), changes in descending pain modulation, and changes in systemic inflammation (plasma interleukin [IL-6] concentrations). Results: Twenty-nine participants were eligible to participate, with 19 participants completing the trial. There was unequal withdrawals between groups; the acupuncture group had a withdrawal rate of 14% compared with 53% in usual care. Adverse events were uncommon (6.7%) and generally mild. A 1.9 point decrease in median nonmenstrual pain scores and a 2.0 decrease in median menstrual pain scores between baseline and end of trial were observed in the acupuncture group only. Improvements in all domains of the EHP-30 were seen in the acupuncture group, with no changes seen in usual care. There was no difference between baseline and end of treatment in IL-6 concentrations for either group. Conclusions: Acupuncture was an acceptable, well-tolerated treatment and it may reduce pelvic pain and improve quality of life; however, usual care was not an acceptable control group. Trial Registration: anzctr.org.au: ACTRN12617000053325. Prospectively registered January 11, 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mike Armour
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia.,Translational Health Research Institute (THRI), Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia
| | - Adele E Cave
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia
| | | | - Genevieve Z Steiner
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia.,Translational Health Research Institute (THRI), Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia
| | - Xiaoshu Zhu
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia
| | - Jing Song
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, SWSLHD Camden and Campbelltown Hospitals, NSW, Australia
| | - Jason Abbott
- School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Caroline A Smith
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia.,Translational Health Research Institute (THRI), Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia
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15
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Wang Y, Xu J, Zhang Q, Zhang Q, Yang Y, Wei W, Guo X, Liang F, Yu S, Yang J. Immediate Analgesic Effect of Acupuncture in Patients With Primary Dysmenorrhea: A fMRI Study. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:647667. [PMID: 34108856 PMCID: PMC8180846 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.647667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary dysmenorrhea (PDM) is a common gynecological disease characterized by lower abdominal pain. Acupuncture is considered a good alternative therapy for PDM. However, the central mechanism of the analgesic effect of acupuncture is largely unknown. In this study, eligible patients were randomized into the real and sham acupuncture groups using a computer-generated, permuted block randomization method. The study cohort comprised 34 patients: 19 in the real acupuncture group and 15 in the sham acupuncture group. The clinical characteristics of the patients during their menstrual period were collected, and imaging scans were performed during the first 3 days of the patients' menstrual period. We analyzed task and resting functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data to investigate the potential central mechanism of the immediate effect of acupuncture intervention on the intensity of PDM pain. The task fMRI study found that the rostral anterior cingulate cortex (rACC) and right supplemental motor area were activated during real acupuncture. Using the resting-state functional connectivity (FC) method, we found a post- versus pre-treatment change in the FC of the rACC and left precentral gyrus in the comparison of real acupuncture versus sham acupuncture. In addition, the FC of the rACC-left precentral gyrus at baseline was negatively correlated with short-term analgesia, while the change in the FC of the rACC-left precentral gyrus was positively correlated with short-term analgesia after acupuncture treatment. These findings support the importance of rACC-left precentral gyrus resting-state FC in the modulation of the intensity of PDM pain through acupuncture, which may shed light on the central mechanism of acupuncture in the treatment of PDM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Wang
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jing Xu
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- People’s Hospital of Yuxi City, Yuxi, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Chongqing Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Ya Yang
- Chongqing Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoli Guo
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Fanrong Liang
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Siyi Yu
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
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16
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Kim JH, Cho MR, Shin JC, Park GC, Lee JS. Factors contributing to cognitive improvement effects of acupuncture in patients with mild cognitive impairment: a pilot randomized controlled trial. Trials 2021; 22:341. [PMID: 33980288 PMCID: PMC8117619 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-021-05296-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is generally regarded as the borderline between cognitive changes of aging and very early Alzheimer’s disease (AD). It is important to develop easily available interventions to delay the progression of MCI to AD. We investigated factors contributing to the cognitive improvement effects of acupuncture to obtain data for developing optimized acupuncture treatments for MCI. Methods This outcome assessor-blinded, randomized controlled trial included a full analysis for comparing the efficacy of different acupuncture methods. Thirty-two participants with MCI (i.e., fulfilling the Peterson diagnostic criteria for MCI, K-MMSE scores of 20–23, and MoCA-K scale scores of 0–22) were randomly assigned to basic acupuncture (BA; GV20, EX-HN1, GB20, and GV24 for 30 min), acupoint specificity (AS; adding KI3 to BA), needle duration (ND; BA for 20 min), or electroacupuncture (EA; electrical stimulation to BA) groups (n=8/group) via 1:1:1:1 allocation and administered acupuncture once daily, three times a week for 8 weeks. The measured outcomes included scores on the Korean version of the Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale-cognitive subscale (ADAS-K-cog), Korean version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment scale (MoCA-K), Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale, Korean Activities of Daily Living scale, Korean Instrumental Activities of Daily Living scale, and European Quality of Life Five Dimension Five Level Scale. Outcome measurements were recorded at baseline (week 0), intervention endpoint (week 8), and 12 weeks after intervention completion (week 20). Results Twenty-five patients with MCI completed the trial (BA group, 8; AS group, 6; ND group, 5; EA group, 6). MoCA-K scores were significantly increased in the BA group compared with the ND (p=0.008, week 8–week 0) and EA groups (p=0.003, week 8–week 0; p=0.043, week 20–week 0). ADAS-K-cog scores were significantly decreased in the BA group compared with the ND group (p=0.019, week 20–week 0). Conclusions The BA group showed significant improvement in cognitive function compared to the ND and EA groups. Electrical stimulation and needle duration may contribute to the cognitive improvement effects of acupuncture in patients with MCI. Trial registration Clinical Research Information Service; URL:cris.nih.go.kr.; unique identifier: KCT0003430 (registration date: January 16, 2019). Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13063-021-05296-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae-Hong Kim
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, DongShin University, Naju City, 58245, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Nursing, Christian College of Nursing, Gwangju City, 61662, Republic of Korea.
| | - Myoung-Rae Cho
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, DongShin University, Naju City, 58245, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Cheol Shin
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, DongShin University, Naju City, 58245, Republic of Korea
| | - Gwang-Cheon Park
- Clinical Research Center, DongShin University Gwangju Korean Medicine Hospital, 141, Wolsan-ro, Nam-gu, Gwangju City, 61619, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Soon Lee
- Department of Nursing, Christian College of Nursing, Gwangju City, 61662, Republic of Korea
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17
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Tsonis O, Gkrozou F, Barmpalia Z, Makopoulou A, Siafaka V. Integrating Lifestyle Focused Approaches into the Management of Primary Dysmenorrhea: Impact on Quality of Life. Int J Womens Health 2021; 13:327-336. [PMID: 33762855 PMCID: PMC7982556 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s264023] [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: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This narrative review aims to identify alternative ways to improve the symptoms of primary dysmenorrhea (PD). BACKGROUND PD refers to endometrial painful cramps during the premenstrual period. This condition affects a lot of women worldwide and is accompanied with absenteeism and high economic costs, thus, risk-free, and effective therapeutic approaches are needed. Pharmacological agents such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and oral contraceptive pills (OCPs), which are widely prescribed for these women, demonstrate adequate efficacy in alleviating pain and discomfort. The long natural course of the disease dictates remedies that focus on lifestyle changes and on improvement of Quality-of-Life (QoL) for women suffering with PD. MATERIALS AND METHODS Five major search engines, namely MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library were searched for articles published prior to October 2020 focused in PD. A total of 74 paper were included. DISCUSSION Physical activity, for instance yoga, aromatherapy massage, and other forms of relaxation, vitamins and dietary changes, acupressure and acupuncture,a and some psychological interventions are just few of the proposed health behavior targeted approaches in cases of PD. This review focuses on lifestyle changes and alternative methods that could potentially result in minimizing symptoms of PD and in improving overall QoL for these patients, by providing current scientific evidence on their efficacy. CONCLUSION Complementary and alternative medicine practices (CAM) are widely accepted by women. International literature provides controversial scientific evidence, thus further studies need to be conducted in order to prove or disregard their efficacy in cases of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orestis Tsonis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Fani Gkrozou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Zoi Barmpalia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Annamaria Makopoulou
- School of Psychology, College of Human Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Wales, UK
| | - Vassiliki Siafaka
- Department of Speech and Language Therapy, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
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18
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Xing R, Yang J, Wang R, Wang Y. Extracorporeal shock wave therapy for treating primary dysmenorrhea: A randomized controlled trial. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e23798. [PMID: 33592837 PMCID: PMC7870246 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000023798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are scanty data to apply radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy (rESWT) on the acupuncture points in the lower abdomen to reduce the menstrual pain. This trial aimed to test the rESWT safety and efficacy for treating primary dysmenorrhea (PD). METHODS Forty-four young-women with PD were randomly assigned to one of the three groups: to receive rESWT on the acupuncture points during the follicular phase (Group A, n = 15) or during the luteal phase (Group B, n = 14), or to apply heat patch to the acupuncture points during the follicular phase as the control (Group C, n = 15) over three menstrual cycles. The pain severity (using 0-to-10 visual analog scale), the pain duration (hours), plasma PGF2α prostaglandin F2alpha and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), self-rating anxiety scale and menstrual blood loss were assessed before and after interventions. RESULTS The pain severity and duration significantly decreased in all groups after interventions. Although the reduced pain duration was not different among the groups, the reduced pain severity was more significant (P = .003) in Groups A (-53.8 ± 33.7%) and B (-59.3 ± 36.7%) than in Group C (-18.7 ± 27.1%). The rESWT intervention did not change plasma prostaglandins in Group A, although there was a decreased prostaglandin F2alpha (-20.5 ± 32.9%) in Group B or a decreased PGE2 (-18.9 ± 17.8%) in Group C. The anxiety level showed no change after intervention. The menstrual blood volume reduced slightly after intervention and the change of menstrual blood loss in Group B was significant (P = .038). CONCLUSION The rESWT applications on the abdominal acupuncture points safely and effectively reduced the menstrual pain, which was not associated with the prostaglandin changes. The rESWT-reduced pain seemed equally effective with the intervention applied during the follicular phase or luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Heat patch placed on the abdominal acupuncture points also reduced the pain severity and duration, indicating that the improved blood flow could effectively alleviate the menstrual pain with PD. The changes in anxiety level and menstrual blood loss were slight after intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruirui Xing
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport
| | - Jian Yang
- Department of Rehabilitation, Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Renwei Wang
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation, Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Shanghai, China
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19
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The Role of Research in Guiding Treatment for Women's Health: A Qualitative Study of Traditional Chinese Medicine Acupuncturists. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18020834. [PMID: 33478105 PMCID: PMC7835913 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18020834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Background: Surveys of acupuncture practitioners worldwide have shown an increase in the use of acupuncture to treat women’s health conditions over the last ten years. Published studies have explored the effectiveness of acupuncture for various conditions such as period pain, fertility, and labor induction. However, it is unclear what role, if any, peer-reviewed research plays in guiding practice. Methods: Acupuncturists with a significant women’s health caseload were interviewed online in three small groups to explore factors that contribute to acupuncturists’ clinical decision made around treatment approaches and research. Results: Eleven practitioners participated in the focus groups. The overarching theme that emerged was one of ‘Not mainstream but a stream.’ This captured two themes relating to acupuncture as a distinct practice: ‘working with what you’ve got’ as well as ‘finding the right lens’, illustrating practitioners’ perception of research needing to be more relevant to clinical practice. Conclusions: Acupuncture practitioners treating women’s health conditions reported a disconnect between their clinical practice and the design of clinical trials, predominantly due to what they perceived as a lack of individualization of treatment. Case histories were popular as a learning tool and could be used to support increasing research literacy.
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20
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Yu S, Xie M, Liu S, Guo X, Tian J, Wei W, Zhang Q, Zeng F, Liang F, Yang J. Resting-State Functional Connectivity Patterns Predict Acupuncture Treatment Response in Primary Dysmenorrhea. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:559191. [PMID: 33013312 PMCID: PMC7506136 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.559191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary dysmenorrhea (PDM) is a common complaint in women throughout the menstrual years. Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in dysmenorrhea; however, there are large interindividual differences in patients’ responses to acupuncture treatment. Fifty-four patients with PDM were recruited and randomized into real or sham acupuncture treatment groups (over the course of three menstrual cycles). Pain-related functional connectivity (FC) matrices were constructed at baseline and post-treatment period. The different neural mechanisms altered by real and sham acupuncture were detected with multivariate analysis of variance. Multivariate pattern analysis (MVPA) based on a machine learning approach was used to explore whether the different FC patterns predicted the acupuncture treatment response in the PDM patients. The results showed that real but not sham acupuncture significantly relieved pain severity in PDM patients. Real and sham acupuncture displayed differences in FC alterations between the descending pain modulatory system (DPMS) and sensorimotor network (SMN), the salience network (SN) and SMN, and the SN and default mode network (DMN). Furthermore, MVPA found that these FC patterns at baseline could predict the acupuncture treatment response in PDM patients. The present study verified differentially altered brain mechanisms underlying real and sham acupuncture in PDM patients and supported the use of neuroimaging biomarkers for individual-based precise acupuncture treatment in patients with PDM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyi Yu
- Brain Research Center, Department of Acupuncture & Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Mingguo Xie
- Department of Radiology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Shuqin Liu
- Department of Radiology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoli Guo
- Brain Research Center, Department of Acupuncture & Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jin Tian
- Brain Research Center, Department of Acupuncture & Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Brain Research Center, Department of Acupuncture & Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Brain Research Center, Department of Acupuncture & Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Fang Zeng
- Brain Research Center, Department of Acupuncture & Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Fanrong Liang
- Brain Research Center, Department of Acupuncture & Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Brain Research Center, Department of Acupuncture & Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
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21
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Cottrell AM, Schneider MP, Goonewardene S, Yuan Y, Baranowski AP, Engeler DS, Borovicka J, Dinis-Oliveira P, Elneil S, Hughes J, Messelink BJ, de C Williams AC. Benefits and Harms of Electrical Neuromodulation for Chronic Pelvic Pain: A Systematic Review. Eur Urol Focus 2020; 6:559-571. [PMID: 31636030 DOI: 10.1016/j.euf.2019.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Patients with chronic pelvic pain (CPP) may have pain refractory to conventional pain management strategies. Neuromodulation could provide relief of pain. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the benefits and harms of neuromodulation for CPP. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION A comprehensive search of EMBASE, PUBMED, and SCOPUS was performed for the entire database to January 2018. Studies were selected, data were extracted, and quality was assessed by two independent reviewers. A meta-analysis was used to combine randomized controlled trials (RCTs); otherwise, a narrative analysis was used. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS After screening 1311 abstracts, 36 studies including eight RCTs were identified, enrolling 1099 patients. Studies covered a broad range in terms of phenotypes of CPP and methods of neuromodulation. A meta-analysis was possible for percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, which showed improvement in pain. Only narrative synthesis was possible for other modalities (sacral nerve stimulation, spinal cord stimulation, intravaginal electrical stimulation, and pudendal nerve stimulation) which appeared to reduce pain in patients with CPP. Treatments generally improved quality of life but with variable reporting of adverse events. Many studies showed high risks of bias and confounding. CONCLUSIONS While electrical neuromodulation may improve symptoms in CPP, further work is needed with high-quality studies to confirm it. PATIENT SUMMARY Neuromodulation may be useful in reducing pain and improving quality of life in patients with chronic pelvic pain, but more research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Yuhong Yuan
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Andrew P Baranowski
- University College London and University College Hospital and the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
| | | | | | | | - Sohier Elneil
- National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
| | - John Hughes
- The James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough, UK
| | - Bert J Messelink
- Department of Urology, Medical Centre Leeuwarden, Leeuwarden, The Netherlands
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Ee C, Smith CA, Costello M, Moran L, Steiner GZ, Stepto N, Cave A, Albrehee A, Teede H. Acupuncture or auricular electro-acupuncture as adjuncts to lifestyle interventions for weight management in PCOS: protocol for a randomised controlled feasibility study. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2020; 6:53. [PMID: 32346487 PMCID: PMC7183107 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-020-00591-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent women's health condition with reproductive, metabolic, and psychological manifestations. Weight loss can improve these symptoms and is a key goal; however, many women find this difficult to achieve. Acupuncture is a Chinese medical treatment that involves insertion of very fine metal needles into specific areas of the body and has been shown to be efficacious for weight loss in non-PCOS populations. However, few studies have been conducted in women with PCOS. A variant of acupuncture, auricular electro-acupuncture (AEA), may have beneficial effects on sympathetic tone, which is associated with insulin resistance, obesity and PCOS. METHODS This prospective three-arm open label parallel randomised controlled trial will assess feasibility and acceptability of acupuncture and/or AEA for weight loss in women with PCOS. We will enrol 39 women from the community aged between 18 and 45 years, with physician diagnosis of PCOS according to the Rotterdam criteria: body mass index (BMI) between 25 and 40 kg/m2. Women will be randomly allocated to receive one of three treatments for 12 weeks duration: body electro-acupuncture + lifestyle interventions, AEA + lifestyle interventions, or lifestyle interventions alone. The lifestyle intervention in this study is telephone-based health coaching (between 4 and 13 phone calls, depending on individual need), provided by the Get Healthy Service. Primary outcomes of the study are feasibility and acceptability of trial methods as determined by recruitment and retention rates, adherence, acceptability, credibility, and safety. Secondary outcomes include anthropometric (body weight, BMI, waist and hip circumference), metabolic (glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity obtained from a 2-h 75 g oral glucose tolerance test with area under the curve insulin calculated using the trapezoid rule), reproductive (androgen levels, menstrual cyclicity, clinical hyperandrogenism using the Ferriman-Gallwey scoring system), autonomic (heart rate variability, blood pressure), lifestyle (physical activity levels, diet quality, weight self-efficacy), quality of life, and psychological (depression and anxiety symptoms, internal health locus of control). DISCUSSION This study addresses the feasibility and acceptability of novel interventions to treat overweight/obesity in PCOS. Study findings have the potential to generate a new understanding of the role of acupuncture and auricular acupuncture in weight management. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry, 8/6/18 ACTRN12618000975291.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn Ee
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751 Australia
| | - Caroline A. Smith
- Graduate Research School, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751 Australia
| | - Michael Costello
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, Level 1, Women’s Health Institute, Royal Hospital for Women, Randwick, NSW 2031 Australia
| | - Lisa Moran
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, Locked Bag, Clayton, VIC 29 Australia
| | - Genevieve Z. Steiner
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751 Australia
| | - Nigel Stepto
- Institute for Heath and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC Australia
| | - Adele Cave
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751 Australia
| | - Atekah Albrehee
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751 Australia
| | - Helena Teede
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, Locked Bag, Clayton, VIC 29 Australia
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Zhai SJ, Ruan Y, Liu Y, Lin Z, Xia C, Fang FF, Zhou QH. Time-effective analgesic effect of acupressure ankle strip pressing wrist and ankle acupuncture point on primary dysmenorrhea: Study protocol clinical trial (SPIRIT compliant). Medicine (Baltimore) 2020; 99:e19496. [PMID: 32195949 PMCID: PMC7220230 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000019496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dysmenorrhea seriously affects the ability of women to perform normal social activities and decreases their quality of life. Primary dysmenorrhea can be effectively treated with acupuncture. Based on the wrist-ankle acupuncture (WAA) theory, we designed a portable WAA point compression treatment strap that treats diseases by automatically applying pressure to acupuncture points. The proposed study aims to evaluate the immediate analgesic effect of the acupressure wrist-ankle strap in patients with primary dysmenorrhea. METHODS The study will be a randomized controlled trial conducted from May 1, 2019 to May 30, 2020 that includes 78 students from Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine who have primary dysmenorrhea and meet the eligibility criteria. Participants will be randomly divided into 2 groups in a 1:1 allocation ratio. The intervention group will use the acupressure wrist-ankle strap equipped with tip compression component parts on the internal side; the control group will use the nonacupressure wrist-ankle strap with the tip compression parts removed. All participants will be treated for 30 minutes on the 1st day of menstruation. The primary outcome is the pain intensity score measured by the visual analog scale. The secondary outcomes are the onset time of analgesia, the pain threshold at Yinlingquan (SP 9), skin temperature at Guanyuan (CV 4), and expectations and satisfaction of patients as investigated via the expectation and treatment credibility scale. DISCUSSION This trial will be the 1st study to evaluate the analgesic effect of the acupressure wrist-ankle strap in patients with primary dysmenorrhea. The quality of this study is ensured by the randomization, nonacupressure control, and blinded design. The results may provide evidence for a potential alternative treatment for primary dysmenorrhea and evidence-based proof of the analgesic effect of WAA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-jie Zhai
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Ruan
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yue Liu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhen Lin
- Department of Health Statistics, Naval Medical University
| | - Chen Xia
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fan-fu Fang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Changhai Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing-hui Zhou
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
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24
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Liu CH, Kung YY, Lin CL, Yang JL, Wu TP, Lin HC, Chang YK, Chang CM, Chen FP. Therapeutic Efficacy and the Impact of the "Dose" Effect of Acupuncture to Treat Sciatica: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study. J Pain Res 2019; 12:3511-3520. [PMID: 32021387 PMCID: PMC6942513 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s210672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To investigate the required sample size for and feasibility of a full-scale randomized controlled trial examining the impact of the “dose” effect of acupuncture in treating sciatica. Patients and methods Fifty-seven patients with sciatica, aged 35–70 years, were recruited and screened. Thirty-one participants were randomly assigned to receive “low-dose” manual acupuncture (MAL) (n= 15) or “high-dose” manual acupuncture (MAH) (n=16). The acupuncture treatment was administered twice weekly for 4 weeks. The primary outcome was the visual analog scale (VAS) score at baseline and after 4 weeks of acupuncture treatment. Secondary outcomes included the Roland Disability Questionnaire for Sciatica (RDQS), the Sciatica Bothersomeness Index (SBI), and the World Health Organization Quality of Life in the Brief Edition (WHOQOL-BREF) scores at baseline and after 4 weeks of acupuncture treatment. Results Thirty patients completed the study. For all patients, acupuncture achieved significant improvement in the VAS (5.48±2.0, p<0.001), RDQS (3.18±2.83, p=0.004), and SBI (2.85±3.23, p=0.008) scores, but not in the WHOQOL-BREF scores. In the between-group analysis, the assessed scales showed no significant differences between the MAL and MAH groups. However, based on the level of chronicity, the MAH group demonstrated greater improvement in the outcomes and a significant benefit in the physical subscale of the WHOQOL-BREF (p<0.05). Conclusion Results of this pilot study indicate that acupuncture is safe and may effectively relieve symptoms and disability in patients with non-acute sciatica. MAL was as effective as MAH in treating sciatica. A subsequent trial with a larger sample size (estimated at n=96) is required to confirm whether patients with a high level of chronicity would benefit from MAH treatment. Trial registration NCT03489681.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ching-Hsiung Liu
- Department of Neurology, Lotung Poh-Ai Hospital, Ilan, Taiwan, Republic of China.,Institute of Traditional Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Yen-Ying Kung
- Institute of Traditional Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China.,Center for Traditional Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China.,Faculty of Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Chun-Liang Lin
- Department of Neurology, Lotung Poh-Ai Hospital, Ilan, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Jen-Lin Yang
- Institute of Traditional Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China.,Center for Traditional Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China.,Faculty of Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Ta-Peng Wu
- Center for Traditional Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Hong-Chun Lin
- Center for Traditional Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Yang-Kai Chang
- Center for Traditional Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Ching-Mao Chang
- Institute of Traditional Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China.,Center for Traditional Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China.,Faculty of Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Fang-Pey Chen
- Institute of Traditional Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China.,Center for Traditional Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
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Armour M, Smith CA, Wang LQ, Naidoo D, Yang GY, MacPherson H, Lee MS, Hay P. Acupuncture for Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8081140. [PMID: 31370200 PMCID: PMC6722678 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8081140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2019] [Revised: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Depression is commonly treated with anti-depressant medication and/or psychological interventions. Patients with depression are common users of complementary therapies, such as acupuncture, either as a replacement for, or adjunct to, their conventional treatments. This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effectiveness of acupuncture in major depressive disorder. Methods: A search of English (Medline, PsychINFO, Google Scholar, and CINAL), Chinese (China National Knowledge Infrastructure Database (CNKI) and Wanfang Database), and Korean databases was undertaken from 1980 to November 2018 for clinical trials using manual, electro, or laser acupuncture. Results: Twenty-nine studies including 2268 participants were eligible and included in the meta-analysis. Twenty-two trials were undertaken in China and seven outside of China. Acupuncture showed clinically significant reductions in the severity of depression compared to usual care (Hedges (g) = 0.41, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.18 to 0.63), sham acupuncture (g = 0.55, 95% CI 0.31 to 0.79), and as an adjunct to anti-depressant medication (g = 0.84, 95% CI 0.61 to 1.07). A significant correlation between an increase in the number of acupuncture treatments delivered and reduction in the severity of depression (p = 0.015) was found. Limitations: The majority of the included trials were at a high risk of bias for performance blinding. The applicability of findings in Chinese populations to other populations is unclear, due to the use of a higher treatment frequency and number of treatments in China. The majority of trials did not report any post-trial follow-up and safety reporting was poor. Conclusions: Acupuncture may be a suitable adjunct to usual care and standard anti-depressant medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mike Armour
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia.
- Translational Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia.
| | - Caroline A Smith
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia
- Translational Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia
| | - Li-Qiong Wang
- School of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Dhevaksha Naidoo
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia
| | - Guo-Yan Yang
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia
| | - Hugh MacPherson
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, Heslington, York YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Myeong Soo Lee
- Clinical Medicine Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon 34054, Korea
| | - Phillipa Hay
- Translational Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia
- Campbelltown Hospital, South West Sydney Local Health District, Campbelltown, NSW 5074, Australia
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26
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Wang CC, Tan JY, Williams A. Safety and side effects of acupuncture therapy in Australia: A systematic review. Eur J Integr Med 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eujim.2019.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Zhang Q, Xu C, Lin S, Zhou H, Yao G, Liu H, Wang L, Pan X, Quan G, Wu C. Synergistic immunoreaction of acupuncture-like dissolving microneedles containing thymopentin at acupoints in immune-suppressed rats. Acta Pharm Sin B 2018; 8:449-457. [PMID: 29881684 PMCID: PMC5989831 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2017.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2017] [Revised: 10/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Dissolving microneedles carried drug molecules can effectively penetrate the stratum corneum of skin to improve the transdermal drug delivery. The traditional Chinese medicine acupuncture is based on the needle stimulation at a specific location (acupoint) to generate and transmit biochemical and physiological signals which alter the pathophysiological state of patients. However, the pain associated with conventional acupuncture needles and the requirement of highly trained professionals limit the development of acupuncture in non-Asian countries. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether the dissolving microneedles can be utilized as a self-administered painless replacement for acupuncture and locally released drug molecules can achieve expected therapeutic outcomes. Immunosuppressive rats were treated with acupuncture at Zusanli (ST36) acupoint using microneedles containing thymopentin. The immune functions and psychological mood of the immunosuppressed animals were examined. The proliferation of splenocytes was examined by CCK-8 assay. CD4 and CD8 expression patterns in spleen cells were detected by flow cytometry. The current study showed that use of either microneedles containing thymopentin or conventional acupuncture both resulted in immune cell proliferation, which was confirmed by flow cytometry. Furthermore, either conventional acupuncture or microneedles were able to effectively mitigate the anxiety caused by immune-suppression when applied on the ST36.
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Mirabi P, Alamolhoda SH, Yazdkhasti M, Mojab F. The Effects of Lemon balm on Menstrual Bleeding and the Systemic Manifestation of Dysmenorrhea. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL RESEARCH : IJPR 2018; 17:214-223. [PMID: 31011354 PMCID: PMC6447884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
We conducted a double-blind randomized placebo controlled trial to evaluate the impact of Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) on the bleeding and systemic manifestations of menstruation. A total of 90 students were randomly assigned to treatment or placebo group. Bleeding and systemic manifestations were evaluated with a menstrual pictogram and multidimensional verbal scale before and during 2 consecutive menstrual cycles, respectively. Statistical tests indicated that in both groups, the severity of the systemic symptoms associated with dysmenorrhea significantly decreased (P = 0.001). Among the systemic symptoms, the mean severity of fatigue, the lethargy, and nervous changes in the two groups decreased after the treatment, which was statistically significant. There was no significant difference between the two groups regarding fatigue in the three cycles, but there was a significant difference between the two groups regarding lethargy in the first cycle (P = 0.05) and the second cycle (P = 0.001) after the treatment. The present study demonstrated that Melissa officinalis decreases the severity of the systemic signs associated with menstruation. It showed that the herb does not increase the severity of bleeding and the duration of menstruation. However, it reduces the mean total score of the severity of all the systemic symptoms associated with dysmenorrhea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parvaneh Mirabi
- Infertility and Reproductive Health Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.
| | - S. Hanieh Alamolhoda
- Midwifery and reproductive health department, Nursing and midwifery School, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mansooreh Yazdkhasti
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Midwifery, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran.
| | - Faraz Mojab
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center and School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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