1
|
Klocke C, Rhein K, Cramer H, Kröger B, Wetzel AJ, Vagedes J, Mauch H, Beißner F, Joos S, Valentini J. A randomized controlled trial of acupuncture and receptive music therapy for sleep disorders in the elderly-ELAMUS: study protocol. BMC Complement Med Ther 2024; 24:295. [PMID: 39095748 PMCID: PMC11295593 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-024-04581-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, the demographic shift towards an aging population leads to significant challenges in healthcare systems, specifically due to an increasing incidence of multimorbidity resulting in polypharmacy among the elderly. Simultaneously, sleep disorders are a common complaint for elderly people. A treatment with pharmacological therapies often leads to side effects causing a high potential for dependency. Within this context, there is a high need to explore non-pharmacological therapeutic approaches. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of acupuncture and music therapy, both individually and combined as a multimodal therapy, in the treatment of sleep disorders in individuals aged 70 years and older. METHODS We conduct a confirmatory randomized controlled trial using a two-factorial study design. A total of n = 100 elderly people receive evidence-based standard care information for age-related sleep disorders. Beyond that, patients are randomly assigned into four groups of n = 25 each to receive acupuncture, receptive music therapy with a monochord, multimodal therapy with both acupuncture and music therapy, or no further therapy. The study's primary outcome measurement is the improvement in sleep quality as assessed by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) (global score), at the end of intervention. Additionally, depression scores (Geriatric Depression Scale), health-related quality of life (Short-Form-Health Survey-12), neurovegetative activity measured via heart rate variability, and safety data are collected as secondary outcomes. Using a mixed-methods approach, a qualitative process evaluation will be conducted to complement the quantitative data. DISCUSSION The study is ongoing and the last patient in is expected to be enrolled in April 2024. The results can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions for sleep disorders among the elderly, contributing to a more personalized and holistic approach in geriatric healthcare. TRIAL REGISTRATION German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS00031886).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Klocke
- Institute of General Practice and Interprofessional Care, University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
| | - K Rhein
- Institute of General Practice and Interprofessional Care, University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - H Cramer
- Institute of General Practice and Interprofessional Care, University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Robert Bosch Center for Integrative Medicine and Health, Bosch Health Campus, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - B Kröger
- Institute of General Practice and Interprofessional Care, University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - A-J Wetzel
- Institute of General Practice and Interprofessional Care, University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - J Vagedes
- ARCIM Institute, Filderklinik, Filderstadt, Germany
- Department of Neonatology, University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - H Mauch
- Institute of General Practice and Interprofessional Care, University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - F Beißner
- Insula Institute for Integrative Therapy Research, Hannover, Germany
| | - S Joos
- Institute of General Practice and Interprofessional Care, University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - J Valentini
- Institute of General Practice and Interprofessional Care, University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Xiong Z, Ma P, Zhang H, Liu C, Liu B, Liu Z, Yan S. Placebo response to sham electroacupuncture in patients with chronic functional constipation: A secondary analysis. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2024; 36:e14770. [PMID: 38361038 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.14770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic severe functional constipation is a common disease that requires novel and effective treatment strategies. Acupuncture might constitute a promising therapeutic approach for chronic constipation, but it reportedly engenders an enhanced placebo response. Herein, we aimed to determine the magnitude of the placebo responses to electroacupuncture for constipation and identify its influencing factors. METHODS In this secondary analysis of a multicenter randomized trial, patients were randomized to a sham electroacupuncture group, which was administered for 8 weeks in 24 sessions of superficial needling at nonacupoints. The placebo response rates were assessed using three responder criteria: ≥3 complete spontaneous bowel movements per week (CSBMs/week), overall CSBM, and sustained CSBM. Logistic regression with backward selection method was employed to identify the potential factors that affected the placebo response. KEY RESULTS Overall, 539 patients were included in the study. The placebo response rate was 10.58%, 9.46%, and 9.09% according to the three aforementioned criteria, respectively. Those who exhibited more CSBMs/week at baseline were more likely to respond to sham electroacupuncture. Among patients with more than one CSBM per week at baseline, the response rates for achieving the criteria of ≥3 CSBMs per week, overall CSBM, and sustained CSBM were 25.40%, 30.16%, and 22.22%. CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCE Electroacupuncture did not demonstrate a large placebo response in functional constipation treatment. The number of CSBMs at baseline may be a moderator of the placebo response to sham electroacupuncture. Thus, superficial needling sham acupuncture may be considered an ideal sham control for clinical trials of chronic constipation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyi Xiong
- International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Peihong Ma
- International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Haoran Zhang
- College of Preschool Education, Beijing Youth Politics College, Beijing, China
| | - Cunzhi Liu
- International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Baoyan Liu
- China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhishun Liu
- Department of Acupuncture, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shiyan Yan
- International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Liu N, Liu G, Chang X, Xu Y, Hou Y, Zhang D, Wang L, Chen S. Combining various acupuncture therapies with multimodal analgesia to enhance postoperative pain management following total knee arthroplasty: a network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1361037. [PMID: 38562427 PMCID: PMC10984270 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1361037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of various acupuncture treatments in conjunction with multimodal analgesia (MA) for managing postoperative pain and improving knee function in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA), based on the findings from clinical research indicating the potential benefits of acupuncture-related therapies in this context. Methods We searched Web of Science, PubMed, SCI-hub, Embase, Cochrane Library, China Biology Medicine (CBM), China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Data, and Chinese Scientific Journal Database (VIP) to collect randomized controlled trials of acupuncture-related therapies for post-TKA pain. After independent screening and data extraction, the quality of the included literature was evaluated. The potential for bias in the studies incorporated in the analysis was assessed according to the guidelines outlined in the Cochrane Handbook 5.1. Network meta-analysis (NMA) was conducted using RevMan 5.4 and Stata 16.0 software, with primary outcome measures including visual analog scale (VAS), pain pressure threshold (PPT), hospital for special surgery knee score (HSS), and knee joint range of motion (ROM). Furthermore, the interventions were ranked based on the SUCRA value. Results We conducted an analysis of 41 qualifying studies encompassing 3,003 patients, examining the efficacy of four acupuncture therapies (acupuncture ACU, electroacupuncture EA, transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation TEAS, and auricular acupoint therapy AAT) in conjunction with multimodal analgesia (MA) and MA alone. The VAS results showed no significant difference in efficacy among the five interventions for VAS-3 score. However, TEAS+MA (SMD: 0.67; 95%CI: 0.01, 1.32) was more effective than MA alone for VAS-7 score. There was no significant difference in PPT score among the three interventions. ACU + MA (SMD: 6.45; 95%CI: 3.30, 9.60), EA + MA (SMD: 4.89; 95%CI: 1.46, 8.32), and TEAS+MA (SMD: 5.31; 95%CI: 0.85, 9.78) were found to be more effective than MA alone for HSS score. For ROM score, ACU + MA was more efficacious than EA + MA, TEAS+MA, and AAT + MA, MA. Regarding the incidence of postoperative adverse reactions, nausea and vomiting were more prevalent after using only MA. Additionally, the incidence of postoperative dizziness and drowsiness following ACU + MA (OR = 4.98; 95%CI: 1.01, 24.42) was observed to be higher compared to that after AAT + MA intervention. Similarly, the occurrence of dizziness and drowsiness after MA was found to be significantly higher compared to the following interventions: TEAS+MA (OR = 0.36; 95%CI: 0.18, 0.70) and AAT + MA (OR = 0.20; 95%CI: 0.08, 0.50). The SUCRA ranking indicated that ACU + MA, EA + MA, TEAS+MA, and AAT + MA displayed superior SUCRA scores for each outcome index, respectively. Conclusion For the clinical treatment of post-TKA pain, acupuncture-related therapies can be selected as a complementary and alternative therapy. EA + MA and TEAS+MA demonstrate superior efficacy in alleviating postoperative pain among TKA patients. ACU + MA is the optimal choice for promoting postoperative knee joint function recovery in TKA patients. AAT + MA is recommended for preventing postoperative adverse reactions. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/, identifier (CRD42023492859).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ningning Liu
- Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Gaihong Liu
- Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaoli Chang
- Research Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yingxue Xu
- Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yi Hou
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Dongbin Zhang
- Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Lianzhu Wang
- Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Shaozong Chen
- Research Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chae Y, Lee JH, Lee MS. Using the right design controls for acupuncture trials: Methodological rigor and validity in research. Integr Med Res 2024; 13:101026. [PMID: 38434794 PMCID: PMC10904908 DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2024.101026] [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: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Acupuncture treatment can be defined as a medical procedure with an acupuncture needle at acupoints. Establishing suitable control settings is essential, based on the target elements of the acupuncture therapy. In order to properly design a clinical trial or an experiment, a control group must be established. Here, we overview the significance of the control group and its limitations in acupuncture research. Clinical trials have employed a variety of study designs and controls for acupuncture treatment in order to compare the effects of actual treatments with control groups that include no treatment or treatment as usual, sham acupuncture at true acupoints, real acupuncture at non-acupoints, and sham acupuncture at non-acupoints. In order to determine the point-specificity of acupuncture, real acupuncture at non-acupoints should be taken into consideration, whereas sham acupuncture at the same true acupoints should be used to determine the needling-specific effect of acupuncture. It is crucial to choose the optimum control for acupuncture treatments depending on the study's main goal and to interpret the results in accordance with the research design.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Younbyoung Chae
- Department of Meridian and Acupoints, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun-Hwan Lee
- KM Science Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Korean Convergence Medical Science, KIOM School, University of Science & Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusettes General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Myeong Soo Lee
- KM Science Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Korean Convergence Medical Science, KIOM School, University of Science & Technology (UST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zhang A, Song Z, Di A, Zhou Z, Zheng L, Zhuang L. Acupuncture for the Treatment of Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Parkinson's Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Complement Ther Med 2024; 80:103020. [PMID: 38185400 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2024.103020] [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: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPSs) of Parkinson's disease (PD) have received increasing attention, but effective treatment options remain limited. Acupuncture may have clinical benefits for NPSs in PD patients, but high-quality evidence supporting this possibility still needs to be discovered. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate the effect of acupuncture treatment on NPSs in PD patients. METHODS Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of acupuncture treatment for PD retrieved from the following electronic databases: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus, were used to evaluate NPSs of PD patients. The Cochrane Intervention System Evaluation Manual assessed the methodological quality. RESULTS A total of 13 RCTs involving 719 patients were included. The results showed that compared with medication alone or sham acupuncture, acupuncture improved sleep quality in PD patients, with Parkinson's Disease Sleep Scale (PDSS) [standardized mean difference (SMD)= 0.48, 95% confidence interval (CI)= 0.242 to 0.793, P = 0.001]. The I scores and total scores on Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) indicated acupuncture treatment was effective (SMD=-0.66, 95%CI=-0.66 to -0.18, P = 0.042; SMD=-0.77, 95%CI=-1.31 to -0.23, P = 0.005). Results of the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) and Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire-39 (PDQ-39) showed no statistically significant differences (SMD=-0.27, 95%CI=-0.08 to 0.62, P = 0.128; SMD=-0.20, 95%CI=-0.42 to 0.01, P = 0.554). Anxiety and depression research had no significant differences due to the excessive inter-study bias. CONCLUSION Acupuncture treatment can improve sleep quality, psychological and behavioral alterations, and the overall condition of PD patients. However, the study revealed no significant positive intervention effects on anxiety, depression, and quality of life, underscoring the necessity for continued research to elucidate these domains' intricacies and develop productive therapeutic approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anxin Zhang
- First Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Zefeng Song
- Medical Department, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Anqi Di
- First Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Zelin Zhou
- First Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Liang Zheng
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China
| | - Lixing Zhuang
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Yang E, Lu W, Napadow V, Wayne PM. Clinical and Research Implications of a Cochrane Systematic Review of Acupuncture for Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain. GLOBAL ADVANCES IN INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE AND HEALTH 2024; 13:27536130241261161. [PMID: 39099638 PMCID: PMC11295214 DOI: 10.1177/27536130241261161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- EunMee Yang
- Osher Center for Integrative Health, Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Weidong Lu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Vitaly Napadow
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Peter M. Wayne
- Osher Center for Integrative Health, Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Sun C, Xiong Z, Sun C, Liu T, Liu X, Zhang Q, Liu B, Yan S, Liu C. Placebo response in sham-acupuncture-controlled trials for migraine: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2023; 53:101800. [PMID: 37793307 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2023.101800] [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: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
AIM To understand the placebo response of acupuncture and its effect on migraine and optimize the design of future acupuncture clinical trials on migraine treatment. METHODS Randomized controlled trials with sham acupuncture as a control in migraine treatment were searched in four English databases from inception to September 1, 2022. The primary outcome was placebo response rate. Secondary outcomes were migraine symptoms, emotional condition, and quality of life. Factors associated with placebo response were also explored. Results were combined using risk difference (RD) or standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) with a random effects model. RESULTS The final analysis included 21 studies involving 1177 patients. The pooled response rate of sham acupuncture was 0.34 (RD, 95% CI 0.23-0.45, I2 89.8%). The results (SMD [95% CI]) showed significant improvements in migraine symptoms (pain intensity -0.56 [-0.73 to -0.38], and episode conditions -0.55 [-0.75 to -0.35]); emotional condition (anxiety scale -0.49 [-0.90 to -0.08] and depression scale -0.21 [-0.40 to -0.03]); and quality of life on the Migraine-Specific Quality-of-Life Questionnaire (restrictive 0.78 [0.61-0.95]; preventive 0.52 [0.35-0.68]; and emotional 0.45 [0.28-0.62]) and on the Medical Outcomes Study Short-Form (physical 0.48 [0.34-0.62] and mental 0.21 [0.02-0.41]). Only acupuncture treatment frequency had a significant impact on the placebo response rate (RD 0.49 vs. 0.14; p = 0.00). CONCLUSIONS The effect sizes for placebo response of sham acupuncture varied across migraine treatment trials. Further studies should routinely consider adjusting for a more complete set of treatment factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chengyi Sun
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zhiyi Xiong
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Chongyang Sun
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Tinglan Liu
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyu Liu
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Qinhong Zhang
- Department of Tuina, Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Shenzhen Jiuwei Chinese Medicine Clinic, Shenzhen, China
| | - Baoyan Liu
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shiyan Yan
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China; International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.
| | - Cunzhi Liu
- International Acupuncture and Moxibustion Innovation Institute, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Lee YS, Kim SY, Lee H, Chae Y, Lee MS. ACURATE: A guide for reporting sham controls in trials using acupuncture. Integr Med Res 2023; 12:100955. [PMID: 37250752 PMCID: PMC10220258 DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2023.100955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
This paper presents the Acupuncture Controls gUideline for Reporting humAn Trials and Experiments (ACURATE) checklist, an extension of The Consolidated Standards for Reporting of Trials (CONSORT) and to be used along with STandards for Reporting Interventions in Clinical Trials of Acupuncture (STRICTA) when both real and sham acupuncture needles are used in the study. This checklist focuses on a clear depiction of sham needling procedures to enhance replicability and enable a precise appraisal. We encourage researchers to use ACURATE in trials and reviews involving sham acupuncture to assist reporting of sham acupuncture procedures and the related components.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ye-Seul Lee
- Jaseng Spine and Joint Research Institute, Jaseng Medical Foundation, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Song-Yi Kim
- Department of Anatomy and Acupoint, College of Korean Medicine, Gachon University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyangsook Lee
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Younbyoung Chae
- Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Myeong Soo Lee
- KM Science Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Xie Y, Liu X, Liu T, Sun C, Xin Z, Hu Y, Wang Y, Zhang C, Yan S. Descriptions of sham acupuncture in randomised controlled trials: a critical review of the literature. BMC Complement Med Ther 2023; 23:173. [PMID: 37254178 PMCID: PMC10227975 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-023-04007-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sham acupuncture is usually used to assess the specific effects of acupuncture. However, the reporting quality of sham acupuncture remains unclear despite its critical importance in understanding and analyzing the effects of acupuncture. This paper presents a literature review aimed at assessing the quality of reporting of sham acupuncture in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) based on STRICTA 2010 and TIDieR-Placebo. METHODS Three electronic English-language databases (PubMed, MEDLINE and Embase) were searched from inception to March 7, 2022, and RCTs of sham acupuncture were identified. The reporting quality of sham acupuncture was assessed in accordance with the items recommended in STRICTA 2010 and TIDieR-Placebo. The reporting quality of other items related to sham acupuncture apart from items from these two checklists was also captured to further assess the reporting quality of sham acupuncture. RESULTS A total of 609 eligible studies were included. For all of the items recommended in STRICTA 2010 and TIDieR-Placebo, 100% of the studies reported a brief name that described the sham acupuncture, 93.9% studies reported the needle type, and 90.0% reported the names of the points used. Other items for which the reporting rates were above 50% included the number, frequency and duration of treatment sessions; needle retention time; and number of needle insertions per subject per session. Overall, 49.4% of the studies revealed the rationale why sham acupuncture was chosen, 39.7% of the studies involving insertion processes reported the depth of insertion, and 37.9% of the studies reported the needle manufacturer. Other items for which the reporting rates were below 30% included practitioner-related information, response sought, evaluation of blinding, intervention mode and environment, assisting tools, and the extent to which the treatment was varied. The items "Modifications", "How well (planned)" and "How well (actual)" were not reported in any of the analyzed studies. CONCLUSIONS The overall reporting quality of sham acupuncture in RCTs was suboptimal. Although STRICTA 2010 and TIDieR-Placebo could be beneficial for describing sham acupuncture, neither can offer recommendations specifically for sham acupuncture. There is thus an urgent need to develop specialized guidelines for reporting sham acupuncture in clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yixuan Xie
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyu Liu
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Tinglan Liu
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Chiyun Sun
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zeyin Xin
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yuzhi Hu
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Wang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Cheng Zhang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Shiyan Yan
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Li L, Wang X, Guo J, Chen Y, Wang Z. Effect of acupuncture in the acute phase of intracerebral hemorrhage on the prognosis and serum BDNF: a randomized controlled trial. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1167620. [PMID: 37123377 PMCID: PMC10133506 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1167620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a common cerebrovascular disease, with a high rate of disability. In the literature on Chinese traditional medicine, there is increasing evidence that acupuncture can help hematoma absorption and improve neurological deficits after cerebral hemorrhage. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), one of the most studied neurotrophic factors, is involved in a variety of neurological functions and plays an important role in brain injury recovery. We investigated the effect of acupuncture intervention in the acute phase of ICH on the prognosis and serum BDNF levels of several patient groups. Objective To investigate the influence of acupuncture on the prognosis and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in patients in the acute phase of ICH. Methods From November 2021 to May 2022, 109 subjects were consecutively enrolled, including patients with ICH, who were randomized into the acupuncture group (AG) and sham acupuncture group (SAG), and a control group (CG). The CG received the same acupuncture intervention as the AG, and the SAG received sham acupuncture, with 14 interventions in each group. The level of consciousness of patients with ICH was assessed and serum BDNF levels were measured in all three groups before the intervention and at 3 weeks after onset, and the level of consciousness and outcomes were assessed at 12 weeks after onset. Results After the intervention, the level of consciousness of the AG improved significantly (P < 0.05); the BDNF level of only the AG increased significantly (P < 0.05); the changes in Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score and BDNF level were significantly greater in the AG than in the SAG (P < 0.05), especially for locomotion (P < 0.05). At 12 weeks post-onset, the AG showed better outcomes and recovery of consciousness than the SAG (P < 0.05).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Zhenyu Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yongchuan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Lee YS, Kim SY, Lee H, Chae Y, Lee MS. ACURATE: A guide for reporting sham controls in trials using acupuncture. J Evid Based Med 2023; 16:82-90. [PMID: 36959765 DOI: 10.1111/jebm.12524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To promote better reporting quality regarding sham acupuncture in clinical trials for a precise appraisal of the adequacy of the sham acupuncture procedure. METHODS A three-stage online Delphi survey was conducted to a group of experts. Items with higher than 80% consensus from the initial checklist were selected as the final candidates. Further discussion among the working group was convened to preclude potential redundancy among the items. RESULTS A total of 23 experts out of 35 (66%) responded to the Delphi process. The final checklist consists of 23 items in six categories: type of sham acupuncture, details of sham acupuncture manipulation, location of sham acupuncture, treatment regimen, practitioner, and protocol and settings. CONCLUSION This paper presents the Acupuncture Controls gUideline for Reporting humAn Trials and Experiments (ACURATE) checklist, an extension of The Consolidated Standards for Reporting of Trials (CONSORT) and to be used along with STandards for Reporting Interventions in Clinical Trials of Acupuncture (STRICTA) when sham acupuncture needles are used in the study. This checklist focuses on a clear depiction of sham needling procedures to enhance replicability and enable a precise appraisal. We encourage researchers to use ACURATE in trials and reviews involving sham acupuncture to assist reporting sham acupuncture procedures and the related components.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ye-Seul Lee
- Jaseng Spine and Joint Research Institute, Jaseng Medical Foundation, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Song-Yi Kim
- Department of Anatomy and Acupoint, College of Korean Medicine, Gachon University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyangsook Lee
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Younbyoung Chae
- Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Myeong Soo Lee
- KM Science Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Bluhm R, Cortright M, Achtyes ED, Cabrera LY. "They Are Invasive in Different Ways.": Stakeholders' Perceptions of the Invasiveness of Psychiatric Electroceutical Interventions. AJOB Neurosci 2023; 14:1-12. [PMID: 34387539 PMCID: PMC10424189 DOI: 10.1080/21507740.2021.1958098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Medical interventions are usually categorized as "invasive" when they involve piercing the skin or inserting an object into the body. Beyond this standard definition, however, there is little discussion of the concept of invasiveness in the medical literature, despite evidence that the term is used in ways that do not reflect the standard definition of medical invasiveness. We interviewed psychiatrists, patients with depression, and members of the public without depression to better understand their views on the invasiveness of several psychiatric electroceutical interventions (treatments that involve electrical or magnetic stimulation of the brain) for the treatment of depression. Our study shows that people recognize several kinds of invasiveness: physical, emotional, and lifestyle. In addition, several characteristics of therapies influence how invasive they are perceived to be; these include the perceived capacity of an intervention to result in harm; how localized the effects of the intervention are; the amount of control retained by the person receiving the intervention; how permanent its effects are perceived as being; and how familiar it seemed to participants. Our findings contribute to a small literature on the concept of invasiveness, which emphasizes that categorizing an intervention as invasive, or as noninvasive, evokes a variety of other normative considerations, including the potential harm it poses and how it compares to other potential therapies. It may also draw attention away from other salient features of the intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Eric D. Achtyes
- Michigan State University
- Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Okawa Y, Yamashita H, Masuyama S, Fukazawa Y, Wakayama I. Quality assessment of Japanese clinical practice guidelines including recommendations for acupuncture. Integr Med Res 2022; 11:100838. [PMID: 35340335 PMCID: PMC8943251 DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2022.100838] [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: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The quality of clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) should be extensively evaluated. This study aimed to evaluate Japanese CPGs that include recommendations for acupuncture. Methods In a literature search, CPGs including recommendations for acupuncture published in Japan until October 2021 were sought. We assessed (1) whether the CPGs were developed in accordance with the Grading Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system, (2) the quality of the CPGs using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) II, and (3) whether the strength of the recommendations for acupuncture was consistent with each CPG's predefined procedure. Results Seventeen CPGs including 23 recommendations in total were identified and assessed. (1) Three CPGs were in accordance with the GRADE system. (2) The mean score of overall assessment using AGREE II was 4.5 on a 7-point Likert scale. The mean domain scores were 77% for domain 1 (scope and purpose), 54% for domain 2 (stakeholder involvement), 48% for domain 3 (rigor of development), 78% for domain 4 (clarity of presentation), 20% for domain 5 (applicability), and 51% for domain 6 (editorial independence). (3) The strength of the recommendations for acupuncture in two CPGs was judged to be underestimated. Some of the CPGs contained elementary problems that were not considered in AGREE II. Conclusion The methodological quality of Japanese CPGs including recommendations for acupuncture was not necessarily high. Since technical issues exist in each field of therapy, the respective experts should be involved in developing and reviewing CPGs to disseminate accurate health information.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuse Okawa
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Morinomiya University of Medical Sciences, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Yamashita
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Morinomiya University of Medical Sciences, Osaka, Japan
| | - Shoko Masuyama
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Morinomiya University of Medical Sciences, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yohji Fukazawa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Kansai University of Health Sciences, Osaka, Japan
| | - Ikuro Wakayama
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Kansai University of Health Sciences, Osaka, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Birch S, Robinson N. Acupuncture as a post-stroke treatment option: A narrative review of clinical guideline recommendations. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 104:154297. [PMID: 35816994 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acupuncture may be useful to treat the various clusters of symptoms occurring after a stroke. The use of evidence to underpin clinical practice and treatment guidelines (CPGs and TGs respectively) varies from country to country and may affect what recommendations are made by guideline developers. PURPOSE To examine the extent to which international clinical and treatment guidelines on post-stroke treatment mention the role of acupuncture and to identify what symptoms they recommend for its use. METHOD Scoping of national and international websites of CPGs and TGs r on the after care and rehabilitation of stroke patients provided by professional and government organisations was conducted. The presence/absence of recommendations and the underpinning evidence was appraised for the use of acupuncture for symptoms following stroke. RESULTS Of 84 CPGs and TGs on post stroke after-care identified from 27 countries between 2001 and 2021, 49 made statements about acupuncture. Positive recommendations on the use of acupuncture were identified for 15 symptom areas from 11 countries for: stroke rehabilitation, dysphagia, shoulder pain, motor recovery, walking, balance, spasticity, upper limb extremity impairment, post-stroke pain, central post stroke pain, cognitive disorder, depression, and sleep problems. Thirty-five CPGs (2001-2018) from 18 countries published over the same period were identified that made no mention of acupuncture and therefore no recommendations were made on its use. CONCLUSIONS Currently, evidence used by international guideline developers varies and this influences whether a positive or negative recommendation is made. Recommendations to use acupuncture should be based on the best available evidence which has been quality appraised.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Birch
- School of Health Sciences, Kristiania University College, Oslo, Norway
| | - Nicola Robinson
- Institute of Health and Social Care, London South Bank University, 103 Borough Road, London SE1 0AA, UK; Centre for Evidence-Based Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Lee YS, Kim SY, Kim M, Kim M, Won J, Lee H, Lee MS, Chae Y. Reporting quality of sham needles used as controls in acupuncture trials: a methodological evaluation. Chin Med 2022; 17:64. [PMID: 35637519 PMCID: PMC9153153 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-022-00608-5] [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: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The description of controls is important in acupuncture clinical trials to interpret its effectiveness without fallacy. This paper aims to evaluate the reporting quality of acupuncture studies on the characteristics of sham needles. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING Using a checklist developed from previously published reporting guidelines, the distribution of reported items and changes of reporting rates over time were investigated. Two-way ANOVA and linear regression were conducted. RESULTS Original articles of RCTs of any design involving sham needles as controls were eligible for assessment. 117 trials from three 2-year time periods between 2009 and 2018 were included. Seven items out of 25 were reported in more than 50% of the studies. While significant differences of reporting scores among categories were observed, there were no significant differences among time periods; no significant improvement was observed over time. CONCLUSIONS Low reporting qualities of sham needles used in acupuncture studies may influence how researchers understand the effectiveness of acupuncture. This study evaluated previous publications from 2009 to 2018 and found that reporting qualities on sham needles did not improve over time. Further studies are required to validate the items used in this study to endorse better reporting of controls in acupuncture trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ye-Seul Lee
- Jaseng Spine and Joint Research Institute, Jaseng Medical Foundation, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Song-Yi Kim
- Department of Anatomy and Acupoint, College of Korean Medicine, Gachon University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Mariah Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Korean Medicine Hospital of Pusan National University, Yangsan, South Korea
| | - Minseo Kim
- Department of Anatomy and Acupoint, College of Korean Medicine, Gachon University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiyoon Won
- KM Science Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Hyangsook Lee
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Myeong Soo Lee
- KM Science Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Younbyoung Chae
- Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 1 Hoegi-dong, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Cardoso RF, Lacerda ACR, Lima VP, de Oliveira LFF, de Oliveira SFF, Araújo RP, Castro CLFE, da Silva FP, de Paiva LV, Dietrich L, Figueiredo PHS, Costa HS, Bernardo-Filho M, da Cunha de Sá-Caputo D, Mendonça VA, Taiar R. Efficacy of Acupuncture on Quality of Life, Functional Performance, Dyspnea, and Pulmonary Function in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Protocol for a Randomized Clinical Trial. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11113048. [PMID: 35683437 PMCID: PMC9181529 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11113048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a respiratory disease characterized by the presence of chronic airflow obstruction. Previous studies have evaluated the effect of acupuncture treatment (AT) in patients with COPD. Nevertheless, these studies show a great deal of heterogeneity in treatment protocols, having sample sizes that are too small to estimate and clarify effect size and heterogeneity in patients’ baseline. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of acupuncture on quality of life, functional performance, dyspnea, and pulmonary function in patients with COPD. As such, patients will go through the following three phases: Phase I–pretreatment: period of subject selection and inclusion in the protocol, with an interview and performance of exams and tests as follows: Mini-Cog, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, spirometry, the Patient-Generated Index, Saint George’s Respiratory Questionnaire, the six-minute walk test, the London Chest Activity of Daily Living, and the COPD Assessment Test. Phase II–8 weeks of treatment, with AT 3 times a week, with two parallel groups: Group I–with 50 subjects–AT according to the recommended technical standards; Group II–with 50 subjects–Control, without acupuncture. Phase III–Continuation of AT for 8 weeks, maintaining the subjects in the previously allocated groups and following the same methodology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renato Fleury Cardoso
- Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences (PPGCS), Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys (UFVJM), Diamantina 39803-371, Brazil; (R.F.C.); (A.C.R.L.); (V.A.M.)
| | - Ana Cristina Rodrigues Lacerda
- Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences (PPGCS), Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys (UFVJM), Diamantina 39803-371, Brazil; (R.F.C.); (A.C.R.L.); (V.A.M.)
- Physiotherapy Department, Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Diamantina 39803-371, Brazil; (V.P.L.); (L.F.F.d.O.); (S.F.F.d.O.); (R.P.A.); (C.L.F.e.C.); (F.P.d.S.); (P.H.S.F.), (H.S.C.)
| | - Vanessa Pereira Lima
- Physiotherapy Department, Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Diamantina 39803-371, Brazil; (V.P.L.); (L.F.F.d.O.); (S.F.F.d.O.); (R.P.A.); (C.L.F.e.C.); (F.P.d.S.); (P.H.S.F.), (H.S.C.)
| | - Lucas Fróis Fernandes de Oliveira
- Physiotherapy Department, Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Diamantina 39803-371, Brazil; (V.P.L.); (L.F.F.d.O.); (S.F.F.d.O.); (R.P.A.); (C.L.F.e.C.); (F.P.d.S.); (P.H.S.F.), (H.S.C.)
| | - Sofia Fróis Fernandes de Oliveira
- Physiotherapy Department, Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Diamantina 39803-371, Brazil; (V.P.L.); (L.F.F.d.O.); (S.F.F.d.O.); (R.P.A.); (C.L.F.e.C.); (F.P.d.S.); (P.H.S.F.), (H.S.C.)
| | - Rafaela Paula Araújo
- Physiotherapy Department, Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Diamantina 39803-371, Brazil; (V.P.L.); (L.F.F.d.O.); (S.F.F.d.O.); (R.P.A.); (C.L.F.e.C.); (F.P.d.S.); (P.H.S.F.), (H.S.C.)
| | - Cecylia Leiber Fernandes e Castro
- Physiotherapy Department, Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Diamantina 39803-371, Brazil; (V.P.L.); (L.F.F.d.O.); (S.F.F.d.O.); (R.P.A.); (C.L.F.e.C.); (F.P.d.S.); (P.H.S.F.), (H.S.C.)
| | - Flávia Pereira da Silva
- Physiotherapy Department, Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Diamantina 39803-371, Brazil; (V.P.L.); (L.F.F.d.O.); (S.F.F.d.O.); (R.P.A.); (C.L.F.e.C.); (F.P.d.S.); (P.H.S.F.), (H.S.C.)
| | - Lizânia Vieira de Paiva
- Postgraduate Program in Health, Society and Environment (PPGSASA), Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys (UFVJM), Diamantina 39803-371, Brazil;
| | - Lia Dietrich
- Dentistry Department, Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Diamantina 39803-371, Brazil;
| | - Pedro Henrique Scheidt Figueiredo
- Physiotherapy Department, Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Diamantina 39803-371, Brazil; (V.P.L.); (L.F.F.d.O.); (S.F.F.d.O.); (R.P.A.); (C.L.F.e.C.); (F.P.d.S.); (P.H.S.F.), (H.S.C.)
| | - Henrique Silveira Costa
- Physiotherapy Department, Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Diamantina 39803-371, Brazil; (V.P.L.); (L.F.F.d.O.); (S.F.F.d.O.); (R.P.A.); (C.L.F.e.C.); (F.P.d.S.); (P.H.S.F.), (H.S.C.)
| | - Mario Bernardo-Filho
- Laboratory of Mechanical Vibrations and Integrative Practices, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 20550-013, Brazil; (M.B.-F.); (D.d.C.d.S.-C.)
| | - Danúbia da Cunha de Sá-Caputo
- Laboratory of Mechanical Vibrations and Integrative Practices, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 20550-013, Brazil; (M.B.-F.); (D.d.C.d.S.-C.)
| | - Vanessa Amaral Mendonça
- Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences (PPGCS), Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys (UFVJM), Diamantina 39803-371, Brazil; (R.F.C.); (A.C.R.L.); (V.A.M.)
- Physiotherapy Department, Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Diamantina 39803-371, Brazil; (V.P.L.); (L.F.F.d.O.); (S.F.F.d.O.); (R.P.A.); (C.L.F.e.C.); (F.P.d.S.); (P.H.S.F.), (H.S.C.)
| | - Redha Taiar
- MATériaux et Ingénierie Mécanique (MATIM), Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne, 51100 Reims, France
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Lee B, Kim BK, Kim M, Kim AR, Park HJ, Kwon OJ, Lee JH, Kim JH. Electroacupuncture for treating cancer-related insomnia: a multicenter, assessor-blinded, randomized controlled, pilot clinical trial. BMC Complement Med Ther 2022; 22:77. [PMID: 35303841 PMCID: PMC8932204 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-022-03561-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Insomnia is one of the most frequent symptoms in people with cancer. Electroacupuncture has been widely used in people with cancer or insomnia. We explored the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of electroacupuncture for cancer-related insomnia. Methods People with cancer and insomnia disorder were randomly allocated to electroacupuncture, sham-electroacupuncture, or usual care groups. Participants received either 10 sessions of electroacupuncture at real acupoints, sham-electroacupuncture at non-acupoints, or usual care in each group for 4 weeks. We calculated the recruitment, adherence, and completion rates of participants. The Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), sleep diary and actigraphy-derived sleep parameters, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Fatigue (FACT-F), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and salivary levels of cortisol and melatonin were evaluated as outcome measures. Results Twenty-two participants were enrolled (8, 6, and 8 respectively in the electroacupuncture, sham-electroacupuncture, and usual care groups) and 20 participants completed the trials (8, 4, and 8 respectively). The recruitment, adherence, and completion rates were 78.57% (22/28), 95.45% (21/22), and 90.91% (20/22), respectively. Most of the participants had previously received conventional treatment for insomnia, but few had received Korean medicine treatment, without any demographic or clinical differences between groups. In the electroacupuncture group, there was a statistically significant reduction of 10.13 (mean) ± 8.15 (standard deviation) and 5 ± 3.70 points in mean ISI and PSQI scores at 4 weeks post-treatment (P = .0098 and .0066), compared with sham-electroacupuncture (2.06 ± 7.15 and 1.61 ± 4.34; P = .4796 and .3632) and usual care (3.25 ± 2.60 and 1.38 ± 2.13; P = .0096 and .1112). Although there was no significant difference in ISI score between groups at 4 weeks post-treatment, the electroacupuncture group continued to improve significantly at 4 weeks’ follow-up, showing borderline and significant differences compared to the sham-electroacupuncture and usual care (P = .0614 and .0015). The FACT-F scores in electroacupuncture group showed a significant improvement compared with the sham-electroacupuncture group (P = .0305). No electroacupuncture-related adverse events were reported. Conclusions Electroacupuncture might be feasible for cancer-related insomnia, despite slow participant recruitment. Additional trials with adequately powered sample sizes and a substantial change to the recruitment procedure are needed. Trial registration Clinical Research Information Service, KCT0002162. Submitted 27 October 2016, Registered 2 December 2016 - Retrospectively registered (The first participant enrolment: 28 November 2016), Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12906-022-03561-w.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Boram Lee
- Clinical Medicine Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Bo-Kyung Kim
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Mikyung Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Sangji University, Wonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Ae-Ran Kim
- Clinical Medicine Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo-Ju Park
- Clinical Medicine Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - O-Jin Kwon
- Clinical Medicine Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun-Hwan Lee
- Clinical Medicine Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.,Korean Medicine Life Science, University of Science & Technology (UST), Campus of Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Joo-Hee Kim
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Sangji University, Wonju, Republic of Korea. .,Research institute of Korean medicine, Sangji University, Wonju, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Yu S, He X, Shi H, Chen Y, Liu Z. Effectiveness of electro-press needle for menopause-associated hot flashes: Protocol of a randomized controlled trial. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e28597. [PMID: 35147087 PMCID: PMC8830863 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000028597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hot flashes (HF) are a prevalent symptom associated with menopause affecting up to 85% of women aged 40 to 65 years. Previous studies indicated that acupuncture might relieve the symptom of HF significantly; however, its effectiveness has not been clarified quantitatively. Electro-press needles (EPN) is a novel acupuncture that combines a shallow tiny needle with an electrical transdermal stimulator. Either the needle or the electrical stimulator could function in the treatment. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of EPN in comparison with no intervention in relieving HF of perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. METHODS/DESIGN This study will be a 2-arm randomized waitlist controlled trial. According to the ratio of 1:1 and block randomization, a total of 122 patients with moderate or severe HF will be randomly allocated to either EPN group or waitlist control group. The EPN group will receive 3 sessions of EPN treatment each week in consecutive 6 weeks, 18 sessions in total. The waitlist control group will get no intervention over the first 6 weeks. All the patients will be followed up in the next 24 weeks. The primary outcome will be the percentage of the participants whose 24-hour mean HF is 50% less than the baseline at Week 6. Secondary outcomes will include HF score, HF frequency, HF severity, the Menopause Rating Scale and Menopause-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire Score. DISCUSSION This study will evaluate the effectiveness and safety of EPN treatment to alleviate HF symptoms in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women, excluding self-healing factors. The limitations of the trial design are its single-center scope, lack of placebo control and impossible to blind the acupuncturists and patients.Trial registration: This clinical trial has been registered in Clinical Trial Registry (registration number: NCT04995107; date of registration: Aug 6, 2021).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shudan Yu
- Department of Acupuncture, Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xin He
- Department of Acupuncture, Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Hangyu Shi
- Department of Acupuncture, Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Chen
- New Zealand College of Chinese Medicine, Greenlane, Aukland, New Zealand
| | - Zhishun Liu
- Department of Acupuncture, Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Lee S, Choi DH, Hong M, Lee IS, Chae Y. Open-Label Placebo Treatment for Experimental Pain: A Randomized-Controlled Trial with Placebo Acupuncture and Placebo Pills. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE AND COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE 2022; 28:136-145. [PMID: 35167363 DOI: 10.1089/jicm.2021.0177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Objective: An open-label placebo (OLP) is a placebo treatment in which the patient is aware that the treatment is a placebo. OLPs are considered effective for reducing pain, and previous studies have shown a stronger placebo effect for placebo acupuncture than for placebo pills. In this study, the authors compared the analgesic effects of OLP pills, OLP acupuncture, and a no treatment condition in healthy participants, and then examined the factors contributing to the OLP effect. Design: Randomized controlled crossover trial. Settings/Location: College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea. Subjects: 34 healthy participants. Intervention: Participants received three different treatments ("OLP-pill," "OLP-acupuncture," and "no treatment") on three separate days in random order. Outcome Measurements: Before and after the treatment, heat pain stimuli were applied to the participants' hands, and pain tolerance, intensity, and unpleasantness were measured using a visual analog scale (range, 0-10). Results: Data of 31 participants were included in the analysis. The authors found significant analgesic effects of the placebo pill and placebo acupuncture in the OLP condition. Regression analyses revealed that expectations regarding treatment and practitioner identity influenced the analgesic effects of OLP acupuncture. There was no adverse event. Conclusions: Expectations regarding treatment and practitioner identity influenced the analgesic effect of placebo acupuncture without deception. These findings provide new information regarding the cognitive factors underlying pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatments. Clinical Trial Registration Number: KCT0004928.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seoyoung Lee
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dha-Hyun Choi
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Minyoung Hong
- Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - In-Seon Lee
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Younbyoung Chae
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Wollmer MA, Neumann I, Jung S, Bechinie A, Herrmann J, Müller A, Wohlmuth P, Fournier-Kaiser L, Sperling C, Peters L, Kneer J, Engel J, Jürgensen F, Schulze J, Nagel M, Prager W, Sinke C, Kahl KG, Karst M, Dulz B, Kruger THC. Clinical effects of glabellar botulinum toxin injections on borderline personality disorder: A randomized controlled trial. J Psychopharmacol 2022; 36:159-169. [PMID: 35102782 DOI: 10.1177/02698811211069108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inhibition of frowning via injections of botulinum toxin A (BTX) into the glabellar region has shown beneficial effects in the treatment of major depression. Preliminary research suggests that improvements in the affective domain are not depression-specific, but may also translate to other psychiatric disorders. AIM This 16-week, single-blind, two-center randomized controlled trial investigated the influence of BTX on clinical symptoms of borderline personality disorder (BPD). METHODS Fifty-four patients with BPD were randomly assigned to treatment with BTX (n = 27) or a minimal acupuncture (ACU) control condition (n = 27). Clinical outcomes were followed at 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, and 16 weeks. Primary endpoint was the relative score change on the Zanarini Rating Scale for Borderline Personality Disorder (ZAN-BPD) 8 weeks after baseline relative to the control group and adjusted for treatment center. Secondary and additional outcome variables were self-rated borderline symptoms, comorbid symptoms of depression, psychological distress, and clinical global impression. RESULTS Participants showed significant improvements at the primary efficacy endpoint in both treatment groups (BTX: M = -0.39, SD = 0.39; ACU: M = -0.35, SD = 0.42), but no superior effect of the BTX condition in comparison with the control intervention was found-F(1,5323) = 0.017, p = 0.68). None of the secondary or additional outcomes yielded significant group differences. Side effects were mild and included headache, transient skin or muscle irritations, and dizziness. CONCLUSION Evidence regarding the efficacy of BTX for BDP remains limited, and the design of adequate control conditions presents an opportunity for further research.ClinicalTrials.gov registry: Botulinum Toxin A for Emotional Stabilization in Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), NCT02728778, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02728778.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Axel Wollmer
- Asklepios Clinic North - Ochsenzoll, Asklepios Campus Hamburg, Medical Faculty, Semmelweis University, Germany
| | - Insa Neumann
- Asklepios Clinic North - Ochsenzoll, Asklepios Campus Hamburg, Medical Faculty, Semmelweis University, Germany
| | - Stefanie Jung
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Division of Clinical Psychology and Sexual Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Agnès Bechinie
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Division of Clinical Psychology and Sexual Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Julian Herrmann
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Division of Clinical Psychology and Sexual Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Antje Müller
- Asklepios Clinic North - Ochsenzoll, Asklepios Campus Hamburg, Medical Faculty, Semmelweis University, Germany
| | | | - Larissa Fournier-Kaiser
- Asklepios Clinic North - Ochsenzoll, Asklepios Campus Hamburg, Medical Faculty, Semmelweis University, Germany
| | - Christian Sperling
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Division of Clinical Psychology and Sexual Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Liza Peters
- Asklepios Clinic North - Ochsenzoll, Asklepios Campus Hamburg, Medical Faculty, Semmelweis University, Germany
| | - Jonas Kneer
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Division of Clinical Psychology and Sexual Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Jannis Engel
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Division of Clinical Psychology and Sexual Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Frank Jürgensen
- Asklepios Clinic North - Ochsenzoll, Asklepios Campus Hamburg, Medical Faculty, Semmelweis University, Germany
| | - Jara Schulze
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Division of Clinical Psychology and Sexual Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Matthias Nagel
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Asklepios Clinic North - Wandsbek, Hamburg, Germany.,Clinic for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Lübeck, Luebeck, Germany
| | - Welf Prager
- Dermatologische Praxis, Prager & Partner, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christopher Sinke
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Division of Clinical Psychology and Sexual Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Kai G Kahl
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Matthias Karst
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Pain Clinic, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Birger Dulz
- Asklepios Clinic North - Ochsenzoll, Asklepios Campus Hamburg, Medical Faculty, Semmelweis University, Germany
| | - Tillmann H C Kruger
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Division of Clinical Psychology and Sexual Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,Center for Systems Neuroscience, Hannover, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
On defining acupuncture and its techniques: A commentary on the problem of sham. Integr Med Res 2022; 11:100834. [PMID: 35111572 PMCID: PMC8790499 DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2022.100834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
|
22
|
Effects of Acupuncture on Cardiac Remodeling in Patients with Persistent Atrial Fibrillation: Results of a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Patient- and Assessor-Blinded Pilot Trial and Its Implications for Future Research. Medicina (B Aires) 2021; 58:medicina58010041. [PMID: 35056349 PMCID: PMC8778603 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58010041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives: In this study, we attempted to determine the effects of acupuncture on cardiac remodeling and atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence rates in patients with AF after electrical cardioversion (EC). Materials and Methods: We randomly assigned 44 patients with persistent AF to an acupuncture group or a sham acupuncture group. An electroacupuncture treatment session was administered once weekly for 12 weeks at four acupuncture points (left PC5, PC6, ST36, and ST37). Results: Among the 44 recruited participants, 16 (treatment group) and 15 (control group) completed the trial. The three-month AF recurrence rate (primary outcome) was not significantly different between the two groups. Following the completion of treatment, patients who had been treated with acupuncture had a significant reduction in left atrial volume index (42.2 ± 13.9 to 36.1 ± 9.7 mL/m2; p = 0.028), whereas no change in atrial size was observed in the sham acupuncture group. No serious adverse events were observed. The AF recurrence rate and cardiac function did not differ significantly between the two groups. At three months, the acupuncture treatment group showed more favorable atrial structural remodeling compared to the sham acupuncture group. Conclusion: In future research on acupuncture in AF management, it is recommended that the inclusion criteria be amended to include only symptomatic AF, that an appropriate control group is designed, and that the acupuncture treatment frequency is increased to several times per week.
Collapse
|
23
|
Cheng SI, Norman RM, DeMeo D, Zhong H, Turteltaub LH, McCarthy MM, Marx RG, Strickland SM, Kelly AM. The Feasibility of Blinding Intraoperative Electro-Auricular Acupuncture Under Neuraxial Anesthesia. Med Acupunct 2021; 33:286-294. [PMID: 34471447 DOI: 10.1089/acu.2021.0003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: Demand for complementary medicine, in particular, acupuncture, has increased over the past few years but widespread acceptance has been limited, in part, by the lack of high-quality studies, including lack of blinding. Acupuncture studies traditionally have difficulty with blinding as sham acupuncture can have up to a 40%-50% analgesic effect. This study randomized patients between Acupuncture and No Acupuncture (standard of care) without using sham needles. The primary outcome was adequate blinding of electro-auricular acupuncture in the intraoperative setting with secondary outcomes of pain/nausea control. Materials and Methods: Forty patients undergoing anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction were enrolled. Subjects were randomly assigned to receive acupuncture (Enhanced Electro-Auricular Trauma Protocol) or No Acupuncture during their surgeries. All patients received spinal anesthesia and intravenous midazolam, ketamine, and propofol for sedation. 1000 mg of intravenous (IV) acetaminophen and up to 30 mg of IV ketorolac were given at closure. No opioids or peripheral nerve blocks were administered intraoperatively. Results: Bang's Blinding indices were 0.2 (95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.02, 0.42) in the Acupuncture group, and 0.11 (95% CI: -0.10, 0.31) in the No Acupuncture group on postoperative day 1. Both groups had adequate blinding. There were no differences in pain scores, nausea/vomiting incidence, opioid consumption 0-24 hours, or patient satisfaction. Five patients in the No Acupuncture group received rescue blocks, while no patients in the Acupuncture group needed a rescue block (Fisher's exact test: p = 0.047). Conclusions: This study proved the primary hypothesis that adequate blinding of intraoperative acupuncture can be performed when patients are under sedation and neuraxial anesthesia. This research is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov as Clinical Trial Registration #: NCT03711734.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie I Cheng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care & Pain Management, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Anesthesiology, Weill-Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ryan M Norman
- Department of Anesthesiology, Weill-Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Danya DeMeo
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care & Pain Management, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - Haoyan Zhong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care & Pain Management, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lauren H Turteltaub
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care & Pain Management, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Anesthesiology, Weill-Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Moira M McCarthy
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - Robert G Marx
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sabrina M Strickland
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - Anne M Kelly
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Hu T, Hu H, Chen F, Jiang B, Shen F, Su Y, Yang M, Hu J. The Efficacy and Safety of Acupuncture for Prophylaxis of Vestibular Migraine: A Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial. Front Neurol 2021; 12:709803. [PMID: 34335460 PMCID: PMC8319494 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.709803] [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: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: With a high incidence rate and low diagnosis rate, vestibular migraine (VM) can seriously affect the quality of life of patients, but it remains difficult to manage by current treatment options. Acupuncture may be a potential treatment option for VM prophylaxis, but the currently available evidence is still uncertain. Therefore, this trial aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for VM prophylaxis. Methods: This is a 28-week parallel, randomized, controlled clinical trial including 4 weeks of baseline, 8 weeks of treatment, and 16 weeks of follow-up. A total of 72 participants will be randomly assigned to two groups. The participants will receive acupuncture in the experimental group, while the participants in the control group will be treated with venlafaxine. The primary outcome measures are change in vertigo/migraine days and vertigo/migraine attacks, vertigo severity, and migraine intensity per 4 weeks from baseline. The secondary outcome measures are change in doses of rescue medication, anxiety level, depression level, and quality of life per 4 weeks from baseline. Adverse events will be recorded for safety evaluation. Discussion: This study will investigate the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for VM prophylaxis. The results will contribute to determining whether acupuncture can serve as an optional treatment strategy for treating VM. Clinical Trial Registration: www.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT0464088.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tianye Hu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, China
| | - Hantong Hu
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Feng Chen
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, China
| | - Bin Jiang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, China
| | - Fengfei Shen
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, China
| | - Yingying Su
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, China
| | - Mengyi Yang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, China
| | - Jin Hu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Hu H, Shen Y, Li X, Tian H, Li X, Li Y, Cheng Y, Wu L, Han D. Efficacy of Electroacupuncture Therapy in Patients With Postherpetic Neuralgia: Study Protocol for a Multicentre, Randomized, Controlled, Assessor-Blinded Trial. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:624797. [PMID: 34095161 PMCID: PMC8175774 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.624797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The efficacy of conventional treatments for treating postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) remains unsatisfactory. Thus, this multicentre, randomized controlled, assessor-blinded trial aims to investigate the efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture (EA) therapy in patients with PHN. Methods and Analysis: This multicentre randomized controlled trial will enroll 132 patients with PHN from 3 hospitals. All patients will be randomly assigned to either the EA combined with medication group or medication group through a computerized central randomization system in a 1:1 ratio. Outcome measures will be assessed before intervention, at 2, 4, 6 weeks after intervention and at the end of 8-week follow-up. Primary outcomes will be sensory thresholds and pain intensity. Secondary outcomes will include dosage of analgetic, quality of life, anxiety, and depression severity and sleep quality. All adverse effects will be assessed during the trial. Conclusions: This study will provide evidence to ascertain whether EA is effective and safe for treating PHN. Ethics and Dissemination: Ethics approval (No.ZSLL-KY-2017-025) has been obtained from the Ethics Committee of The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University. Informed consent will be signed prior to subject enrolment. The results will be submitted to international peer-reviewed journals and presented at international conferences. Trial Registration Number: The study protocol has been registered in the clinicaltrials registry with the identification code NCT04594226.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hantong Hu
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yejing Shen
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Lishui Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lishui, China
| | - Xinwei Li
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hongfang Tian
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - XingLing Li
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yingying Cheng
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lei Wu
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Dexiong Han
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Li T, Zhang Y, Cheng Q, Hou M, Zheng X, Zheng Q, Li L. Quantitative study on the efficacy of acupuncture in the treatment of menopausal hot flashes and its comparison with nonhormonal drugs. Menopause 2021; 28:564-572. [PMID: 33739313 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000001767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to compare the efficacy of acupuncture to that of sham acupuncture, placebo pills, and nonhormonal drugs to provide the necessary quantitative information for establishing medication guidelines for menopausal hot flashes. METHODS A comprehensive literature search was performed using public databases. Randomized clinical studies on acupuncture therapy for the treatment of hot flashes in menopausal women were identified. A time-course model was established to describe the efficacy characteristics of acupuncture and sham acupuncture, which were compared with the efficacy of nonhormonal drugs and placebo pills reported in the literature. RESULTS A total of 17 studies involving 1,123 participants were included. The quality of all the studies included in the analysis is medium to high, and there was no obvious risk of bias. It was found that the baseline number of hot flashes was an important factor affecting the efficacy of acupuncture and sham acupuncture. After correcting the baseline to eight hot flashes per day, the frequency of hot flashes decreased from baseline for traditional acupuncture (TA), electro-acupuncture (EA), TA&EA (merger analysis of TA and electro-acupuncture), and sham acupuncture were 3.1 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.8-3.4), 3.6 (95% CI: 3.2-4.0), 3.2 (95% CI: 2.9-3.5), and 2.6 (95% CI: 2.2-3.0) times/d at week 8, respectively. Compared with findings reported in the literature, we found the efficacy of electro-acupuncture was comparable to that of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors/serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and neuroleptic agents such as gabapentin and escitalopram. Furthermore, the efficacy of TA&EA (merged) was significantly higher than that of placebo pills (2.3, 95% CI: 1.8-2.9). CONCLUSIONS The efficacy of TA&EA (merged) was higher than that of sham acupuncture and significantly higher than that of placebo pills. The efficacy of electro-acupuncture was higher than that of traditional acupuncture, significantly higher than that of sham acupuncture, and comparable to that of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors/serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and neuroleptic agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ting Li
- Center for Drug Clinical Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Center for Drug Clinical Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingqing Cheng
- Center for Drug Clinical Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Mengyuan Hou
- Center for Drug Clinical Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xijun Zheng
- Zhengzhou University Cancer Hospital and Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Qingshan Zheng
- Center for Drug Clinical Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lujin Li
- Center for Drug Clinical Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Schulze J, Neumann I, Magid M, Finzi E, Sinke C, Wollmer MA, Krüger THC. Botulinum toxin for the management of depression: An updated review of the evidence and meta-analysis. J Psychiatr Res 2021; 135:332-340. [PMID: 33578275 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Botulinum toxin (BTX) treatment of glabellar frown lines is one of the most common procedures in aesthetic medicine. In addition to its cosmetic effect, the neurotoxin has been shown to have a positive influence on mood and affect. Several randomized clinical trials (RCTs) have examined the effect of botulinum toxin on the treatment of depression. Combining the results of the five RCTs in a random effects meta-analysis revealed that patients treated with BTX showed a more intense improvement of depressive symptoms in comparison to subjects that received placebo injections (d = 0.98). Despite methodological limitations, the results of this study emphasize the effectiveness of BTX in the treatment of depression and therefore pave the way for its use in the field of psychiatry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jara Schulze
- Hannover Medical School, Division of Clinical Psychology and Sexual Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Carl-Neuberg-Strasse 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Insa Neumann
- Asklepios Clinic North - Ochsenzoll, Asklepios Campus Hamburg, Medical Faculty, Semmelweis University, Langenhorner Chaussee 560, 22419, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Michelle Magid
- Department of Psychiatry, Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, 1601 Trinity St., Bldg. B, Stop Z0600, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Eric Finzi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, George Washington School of Medicine, 2120 L Street, NW, Suite 600, Washington, DC, 20037, USA
| | - Christopher Sinke
- Hannover Medical School, Division of Clinical Psychology and Sexual Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Carl-Neuberg-Strasse 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - M Axel Wollmer
- Asklepios Clinic North - Ochsenzoll, Asklepios Campus Hamburg, Medical Faculty, Semmelweis University, Langenhorner Chaussee 560, 22419, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tillmann H C Krüger
- Hannover Medical School, Division of Clinical Psychology and Sexual Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Carl-Neuberg-Strasse 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany; Center for Systems Neuroscience, Bünteweg 2, 30559 Hannover, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Acupuncture in persons with an increased stress level-Results from a randomized-controlled pilot trial. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0236004. [PMID: 32701984 PMCID: PMC7377446 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0236004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In today’s Western societies a high percentage of people experience increased or chronic stress. Acupuncture could serve as treatment for persons affected adversely by the increased stress. Methods The AkuRest study was a two-centre randomized controlled pilot study in adult persons with increased stress levels. Participants were randomly allocated to one of three groups: verum acupuncture treatment, sham acupuncture, and a waiting control group. The feasibility of the study was assessed. In addition, effects on stress level (measured by the Perceived Stress Questionnaire (PSQ-20)) and other variables were assessed at the end of treatment and a 3-month follow-up. Results Altogether, N = 70 persons were included in the study. At the end of the treatment 15.7% were lost to follow-up. The adherence to the protocol was good: 82.9% of the participants completed 100% of their treatment. The stress level of the participants was high at baseline (mean PSQ-20 score 75.5, SD = 8.2). Effect sizes (ES) at T1 showed that verum and sham acupuncture were superior to the waiting condition in reducing stress (ES (verum) = -1.39, 95%-CI = [-2.11; -0.67]: ES (sham) = -1.12, CI = [-1.78;-0.44]). At follow-up, effect sizes were in favour of the verum group (as compared to sham). However, confidence intervals and t-tests showed that these differences were not significant. Conclusion The pilot study demonstrated the feasibility of the acupuncture RCT in persons with increased stress levels. Estimated parameters can be used to design a larger RCT to prove the–here indicated—efficacy of verum acupuncture to decrease stress. Trial registration number ISRCTN15259166.
Collapse
|
29
|
Ho RS, Wong CH, Wu JC, Wong SY, Chung VC. Non-specific effects of acupuncture and sham acupuncture in clinical trials from the patient's perspective: a systematic review of qualitative evidence. Acupunct Med 2020; 39:3-19. [PMID: 32375500 DOI: 10.1177/0964528420920299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous clinical trials have demonstrated that both acupuncture and sham acupuncture exert significant, non-specific effects on treatment outcomes when compared to no-treatment controls. A recently developed framework (mechanisms in orthodox and complementary and alternative medicine-MOCAM) suggests that the non-specific effects of acupuncture originate from multiple domains (e.g. patient characteristics, acupuncturist skill/technique, the patient-acupuncturist relationship, and the acupuncture environment). However, it remains to be determined precisely how these domains influence the non-specific effects of treatment among patients receiving acupuncture and sham acupuncture in clinical trials. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review to synthesize existing qualitative evidence on how trial participants randomized to acupuncture and sham acupuncture groups experience non-specific effects, regardless of the types of medical condition investigated. METHODS This systematic review included primary qualitative studies embedded in randomized controlled trials designed to investigate acupuncture or sham acupuncture interventions. Eligible studies published in English were derived from a search of five international databases. The methodological quality of included studies was evaluated using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool. Using a framework synthesis approach, the identified MOCAM framework was adapted based on the synthesis of the available qualitative evidence. RESULTS A total of 20 studies of high methodological quality were included. Our proposed model indicated that the effects of acupuncture may be increased by maintaining a professional status, applying a holistic treatment approach, practicing empathy, and providing patients with an appropriate explanation of the theory behind acupuncture and sham acupuncture. From the patient's perspective, the efficacy of treatment can be increased by following the lifestyle modification advice provided by acupuncturists, maintaining a positive attitude toward treatment efficacy, actively engaging with acupuncturists during consultation, and making behavioral changes based on experience gained during the trial. CONCLUSION The results of this study may provide a basis for improving and standardizing key components of non-specific effects in acupuncture treatment, and for improving the isolation of specific effects in future clinical trials involving acupuncture and sham acupuncture.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robin St Ho
- Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Charlene Hl Wong
- Hong Kong Institute of Integrative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Justin Cy Wu
- Hong Kong Institute of Integrative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Samuel Ys Wong
- Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Vincent Ch Chung
- Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong.,School of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Fears R, Griffin GE, Larhammar D, Ter Meulen V, van der Meer JWM. Globalization of Traditional Chinese Medicine: what are the issues for ensuring evidence-based diagnosis and therapy? J Intern Med 2020; 287:210-213. [PMID: 31697414 DOI: 10.1111/joim.12989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R Fears
- European Academies Science Advisory Council, German National Academy of Sciences Leopoldina, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - G E Griffin
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, St. George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - D Larhammar
- Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - V Ter Meulen
- European Academies Science Advisory Council, German National Academy of Sciences Leopoldina, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
|
32
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Aichner S, Haile A, Hoffmann V, Olliges E, Tschöp MH, Meissner K. The Role of Tactile Stimulation for Expectation, Perceived Treatment Assignment and the Placebo Effect in an Experimental Nausea Paradigm. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:1212. [PMID: 31798402 PMCID: PMC6863803 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.01212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Tactile stimulation during a placebo treatment could enhance its credibility and thereby boost positive treatment expectations and the placebo effect. This experimental study aimed to investigate the interplay between tactile stimulation, expectation, and treatment credibility for the placebo effect in nausea. Methods Ninety healthy participants were exposed to a 20-min vection stimulus on two separate days and were randomly allocated to one of three groups on the second day after the baseline period: Placebo transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) with tactile stimulation (n = 30), placebo TENS without tactile stimulation (n = 30), or no intervention (n = 30). Placebo TENS was performed for 20 min at a dummy acupuncture point on both forearms. Expected and perceived nausea severity and further symptoms of motion sickness were assessed at baseline and during the evaluation period. At the end of the experiment, participants in the placebo groups guessed whether they had received active or placebo treatment. Results Expected nausea decreased significantly more in the placebo groups as compared to the no treatment control group (interaction day × group, F = 6.60, p = 0.003, partial η2 = 0.20), with equal reductions in the two placebo groups (p = 1.0). Reduced expectation went along with a significant placebo effect on nausea (interaction day × group, F = 22.2, p < 0.001, partial η2 = 0.35) with no difference between the two placebo groups (p = 1.0). Twenty-three out of 29 participants in the tactile placebo group (79%) but only 14 out of 30 participants (47%) in the non-tactile placebo group believed that they had received the active intervention (p = 0.015). Bang’s blinding index (BI) indicated random guessing in the non-tactile placebo group (BI = 0; 95% CI, −0.35 to 0.35) and non-random guessing in the direction of an “opposite guess” in the tactile placebo group (BI = −0.52; 95% CI, −0.81 to −0.22). Conclusion Tactile stimulation during placebo TENS did not further enhance positive treatment expectations and the placebo effect in nausea but increased the credibility of the intervention. Further trials should investigate the interaction between perceived treatment assignment, expectation, and the placebo effect during the course of a trial.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simone Aichner
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Anja Haile
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Verena Hoffmann
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Olliges
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany.,Division of Health Promotion, Coburg University of Applied Sciences, Coburg, Germany
| | - Matthias H Tschöp
- Institute for Diabetes and Obesity, Helmholtz Diabetes Center, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany.,German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Munich, Germany.,Division of Metabolic Diseases, Department of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Karin Meissner
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany.,Division of Health Promotion, Coburg University of Applied Sciences, Coburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Musial F. Acupuncture for the Treatment of Pain - A Mega-Placebo? Front Neurosci 2019; 13:1110. [PMID: 31680841 PMCID: PMC6811493 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.01110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Several control conditions, such as penetrating sham acupuncture and non-penetrating placebo needles, have been used in clinical trials on acupuncture effects in chronic pain syndromes. All these control conditions are surprisingly effective with regard to their analgesic properties. These findings have fostered a discussion as to whether acupuncture is merely a placebo. Meta-analyses on the clinical effectiveness of placebo revealed that placebo interventions in general have minor, clinically important effects. Only in trials on pain and nausea, including acupuncture studies, did placebo effects vary from negligible to clinically important. At the same time, individual patient meta-analyses confirm that acupuncture is effective for the treatment of chronic pain, including small but statistically significant differences between acupuncture and sham acupuncture. All acupuncture control conditions induce de qi, a distinct stimulation associated with pain and needling which has been shown to be a nociceptive/pain stimulus. Acupuncture therefore probably activates the pain matrix in the brain in a bottom-up fashion via the spino-thalamic tract. Central nervous system effects of acupuncture can be modulated through expectations, which are believed to be a central component of the placebo response. However, further investigation is required to determine how strong the influence of placebo on the attenuation of activity in the pain matrix really is. A meta-analysis of individual participant functional magnetic imaging data reveals only weak effects of placebo on the activity of the pain network. The clinical acupuncture setting is comprised of a combination of a distinct neurophysiological stimulus, the needling stimulus/experience, and a complex treatment situation. A broader definition of placebo, such as that proposed by Howick (2017) acknowledges a role for expectation, treatment context, emotions, learning, and other contextual variables of a treatment situation. The inclusion of particular treatment feature as a definitional element permits a contextual definition of placebo, which in turn can be helpful in constructing future clinical trials on acupuncture.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frauke Musial
- Department of Community Medicine, National Research Center in Complementary and Alternative Medicine, NAFKAM, Faculty of Health Science, UiT – The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Nielsen A, Wieland LS. Cochrane reviews on acupuncture therapy for pain: A snapshot of the current evidence. Explore (NY) 2019; 15:434-439. [PMID: 31636020 DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2019.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cochrane is an international non-profit organization established in 1993 to produce and disseminate high quality and unbiased systematic reviews of evidence on health care interventions. At the forefront of systematic review methodology, Cochrane is generally accepted to be among the most carefully prepared and rigorous sources of systematic review evidence. There are numerous Cochrane reviews on nonpharmacologic interventions for pain and multiple Cochrane reviews evaluating acupuncture therapy in pain conditions. But how complete and up to date are those reviews relative to other rigorous systematic reviews with meta-analyses of acupuncture therapy for pain published in the literature? In this 'snapshot' overview, we found 22 relevant Cochrane reviews, some concluding that acupuncture therapy is probably useful for treating specific pain conditions. However, many of the conditions for which acupuncture is most commonly used are either not represented in Cochrane reviews or the existing Cochrane reviews are seriously outdated and do not reflect current evidence. This creates confusion with the risks of adverse effects and addiction liability associated with pain medications, the prevalence of chronic pain, the ongoing opioid epidemic and the need for evidence-based options for pain as part of comprehensive pain care. Clinicians and patients want clarification on safe and effective options to treat pain. Issues involving reviewed trials' inadequate use of sham comparators, of acupuncture as a complex intervention with interactive components and a shift in research focus from efficacy trials to real-world pragmatic trials are discussed in relation to updating Cochrane reviews of acupuncture therapy for pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arya Nielsen
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Department of Family Medicine & Community Health, United States.
| | - L Susan Wieland
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Center for Integrative Medicine, United States
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Abstract
In this review, we explored different ways of controlling the placebo effects in clinical trials and described various factors that may increase/decrease the placebo effect in randomized placebo-controlled trials. These factors can be subdivided into four groups, and while not all factors are effective in every study and under all clinical conditions, they show on the whole that - even under the ideal condition of drug therapy, where blinded placebo provision is much easier and warranted than in, e.g., psychotherapy - many factors need to be controlled to ascertain that the goal of the clinical trials, fair assessment of superiority of the drug over placebo in placebo-controlled trials and fair assessment of non-inferiority of the drug compared to another drug in comparator trials, is reached. Ignorance towards the placebo effect, which was common in the past, is no longer acceptable; instead, it should be the goal of all therapeutic trials to minimize the placebo effect in clinical trials, while utilizing and maximizing it in clinical routine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Enck
- Department of Internal Medicine VI: Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy , University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
| | - Sibylle Klosterhalfen
- Department of Internal Medicine VI: Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy , University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Meissner K, Linde K. Are Blue Pills Better Than Green? How Treatment Features Modulate Placebo Effects. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2018; 139:357-378. [PMID: 30146054 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2018.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Treatment-related expectations are important predictors for placebo effects in various medical conditions. They are formed by verbal and nonverbal cues during the administration of treatments, such as verbal suggestions, conscious and unconscious associations with previous treatments, characteristics of patients and health-care providers as well as perceptual characteristics of the treatment. This review provides an overview of studies that aimed to elucidate the impact of treatment characteristics on expectations and placebo effects. Results show that high price, brand label, the use of invasive placebos and high placebo dose increase the expectations toward the beneficial effect of a placebo treatment, which in turn boost the placebo effect. Neuroimaging studies provide first insights into the neurobiological mechanisms underlying these differential placebo effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karin Meissner
- Division of Integrative Health Promotion, Coburg University of Applied Sciences, Coburg, Germany.
| | - Klaus Linde
- Institute of General Practice, Technical University of Munich, München, Germany
| |
Collapse
|