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BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies Jan 2024There is a continuing interest in finding effective methods for scar treatment. Dry needling is gaining popularity in physiotherapy and is defined by Western medicine as...
BACKGROUND
There is a continuing interest in finding effective methods for scar treatment. Dry needling is gaining popularity in physiotherapy and is defined by Western medicine as a type of acupuncture. The terms acupuncture and dry needling have been used interchangeably so we have focused on the efficacy of dry needling or acupuncture in scar treatment.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this systematic review was to determine the usefulness of dry needling or local acupuncture for scar treatment. In our search process, we used the terms 'acupuncture,' 'needling,' or 'dry needling' to identify all relevant scientific papers. We have focused on the practical aspects of local management of different scar types with dry needling or acupuncture.
SEARCH STRATEGY
The search strategy included different combinations of the following keywords: 'scar', 'keloid', 'dry needling', 'needling', 'acupuncture', 'treatment', 'physical therapy'. This systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. MEDLINE (PubMed, EBSCOHost and Ovid), EMBASE (Elsevier), and Web of Science databases were searched for relevant publications from inception through October 2023.
INCLUSION CRITERIA
The studies that investigated the effectiveness of dry needling or acupuncture for scar treatment were included.
DATA EXTRACTION AND ANALYSIS
The main extraction data items were: the needling technique; needle: diameter, length; needling locations; manual needling manipulation; number of sessions; settings; outcomes and results.
RESULTS
As a result of a comprehensive search, 11 manuscripts were included in the systematic review, of which eight were case reports, two were randomized trials and one study concerned case series. Two case reports scored 2-4 out of 8 points on the JBI checklist, five studies scored 5-7, and one study scored 8 points. The methodological quality of the two clinical trials was rated as good or fair on the PEDro scale. The case series study scored 7 of 10 points on the JBI checklist. A meta-analysis was not possible as only two randomized trials, eight case reports, and one case series were eligible for review; also, scar assessment scales and pain severity scales were highly heterogeneous.
CONCLUSIONS
The studies differed regarding the delivery of dry needling or local acupuncture for scar treatment. Differences included treatment frequency, duration, number of treatments, selection of needle insertion sites, number of needles used, angle of needle placement, and use of manual needling manipulation.
SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION
INPLASY no. 202310058.
Topics: Humans; Acupuncture Therapy; Cicatrix; Dry Needling; Percutaneous Collagen Induction; Physical Therapy Modalities; Case Reports as Topic
PubMed: 38167051
DOI: 10.1186/s12906-023-04301-4 -
Zhen Ci Yan Jiu = Acupuncture Research Jan 2024In the past 20 years, the acupuncture-moxibustion discipline has made a great progress in clinical research, method construction, standard formulation, guideline...
In the past 20 years, the acupuncture-moxibustion discipline has made a great progress in clinical research, method construction, standard formulation, guideline promotion, basic theory and key scientific issue research. Internationally, the development of acupuncture and moxibustion has gradually begun to pay more attention to the basic issues of the discipline itself from focusing on clinical evidence. The National Institute of Health of USA pays close attention to the construction of acupoint knowledge base and database and to the transformation of peripheral nerve stimulation techniques, which brings forth opportunities and challenges for the development of acupuncture-moxibustion discipline. In the present paper, we analyze the shortcomings of the current development of acupuncture and moxibustion, put forward some strategies for high-quality development in the future, and sort out the basic scientific issues to form an academic consensus. We should employ modern scientific language to express the scientific connotations of the basic theory of acupuncture and moxibustion, and build an open and self-consistent modern theoretical system. In addition, we also should attract more multidisciplinary talents to harmoniously and assiduously work together, insist on continuous innovation to open up a new situation in the transformation of basic scientific research achievements, and establish a new theoretical system of "somato-medicine" represented by acupuncture and moxibustion. In this way, we will guide the acupuncture-moxibustion discipline to make an original contribution to the modern life science and future medicine.
Topics: Moxibustion; Acupuncture Therapy; Acupuncture; Medicine, Chinese Traditional; Acupuncture Points
PubMed: 38239132
DOI: 10.13702/j.1000-0607.20231138 -
Frontiers in Neurology 2024In the realm of pain management, traditional Chinese medicine, specifically acupuncture, has garnered increasing attention. This meta-analysis pioneers the evaluation of...
PURPOSE
In the realm of pain management, traditional Chinese medicine, specifically acupuncture, has garnered increasing attention. This meta-analysis pioneers the evaluation of acupuncture's effectiveness in treating insomnia among hypertensive patients.
METHODS
We conducted a comprehensive search across several databases-PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, WANFANG, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Sinomed, and the Chinese Journal of Science and Technology (VIP). Additionally, forward and backward articles of studies published from the inception of these databases until 10 September 2023, were reviewed. This systematic review and meta-analysis included all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) focusing on acupuncture for insomnia in hypertensive patients, without imposing language or date restrictions. We rigorously assessed all outcome measures reported in these trials. The evidence was synthesized by calculating the difference between mean differences (MD) in symptom change. The quality of the evidence was determined using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. This study is registered with PROSPERO under number CRD42023461760.
RESULTS
Our analysis included 16 RCTs, comprising 1,309 patients. The findings revealed that acupuncture was significantly more effective than the control group in reducing insomnia symptoms, as indicated by a greater decrease in the PSQI score (MD = -3.1, 95% CI [-3.77 to -2.62], < 0.00001). Additionally, improvements in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure were more pronounced in the acupuncture group compared to the control group (SBP: MD = -10.31, 95% CI [-16.98 to -3.64], = 0.002; DBP: MD = -5.71, 95% CI [-8.19 to -3.23], < 0.00001). These results suggest that acupuncture not only improves sleep quality but also lowers blood pressure in patients suffering from hypertension and insomnia. Further research is warranted to elucidate optimal acupuncture points and the duration of treatment for maximized therapeutic effect.https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, CRD42023461760.
PubMed: 38440112
DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1329132 -
Pain and Therapy Dec 2023This study aims to investigate the regularity of related parameters in the treatment of cancer pain using transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS).
INTRODUCTION
This study aims to investigate the regularity of related parameters in the treatment of cancer pain using transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS).
METHODS
A comprehensive literature search was conducted in databases such as PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, OVID, CNKI, CBM, VIP, and WANNGFANG from inception up to December 2022. A database was established, and data mining techniques were applied to analyze the relevant TENS parameters.
RESULTS
A total of 27 articles were included, encompassing nine current frequencies, four retention times, four treatment frequencies, and two wave types. On the basis of the analysis of parameter association rules, the most closely related parameter combination for clinical TENS in the treatment of cancer pain was a current frequency of 2/100 Hz, a treatment frequency of once a day, a retention time of 30 min, and the dilatational wave. Moreover, the study involved 22 acupuncture points distributed along 13 meridians. According to the analysis of acupuncture point association rules, Hegu (LI04), Zusanli (ST36), and Sanyinjiao (SP06) were the most closely related acupuncture points and could be used in combination for clinical TENS in cancer pain treatment. Furthermore, cluster analysis was conducted on acupuncture points with a frequency ≥ 5, resulting in three categories: the first category included Sanyinjiao (SP06), Zusanli (ST36), Hegu (LI04), Jiaji point, and Neiguan (PC06); the second category included Ashi point; and the third category included Back shu point.
CONCLUSION
In the treatment of cancer pain using TENS, it is recommended to use a current frequency of 2/100 Hz, a treatment frequency of once a day, a retention time of 30 min, and the dilatational wave. The electrode positions were primarily selected from Ashi point, Back shu point, Sanyinjiao (SP06), Zusanli (ST36), Hegu (LI04), Jiaji point, and Neiguan (PC06) to achieve the best analgesic effect.
PubMed: 37578681
DOI: 10.1007/s40122-023-00549-3 -
Cancers Dec 2023Numerous acupuncture studies have been conducted on cancer-related pain; however, its efficacy compared to sham acupuncture remains controversial. We confirmed whether... (Review)
Review
Numerous acupuncture studies have been conducted on cancer-related pain; however, its efficacy compared to sham acupuncture remains controversial. We confirmed whether the outcome of acupuncture differs according to the needling points of sham acupuncture for cancer-related pain. We searched 10 databases on 23 May 2023 to screen acupuncture trials using sham acupuncture or waiting list as controls for cancer-related pain. Sham acupuncture was classified into two types, depending on whether the needling was applied at the same locations as verum acupuncture (SATV) or not (SATS). A network meta-analysis (NMA) was performed on the basis of a frequentist approach to assess pain severity. Eight studies ( = 574 participants) were included in the review, seven of which ( = 527 participants) were included in the NMA. The pain severity was not significantly different between SATV and verum acupuncture, but verum acupuncture significantly improved pain severity compared to SATS. The risk of bias affecting the comparisons between the verum and sham acupuncture was generally low. Previous acupuncture trials for cancer-related pain showed differing outcomes of sham and verum acupuncture, depending on the needling points of sham acupuncture. The application of SATV cannot be considered a true placebo, which leads to an underestimation of the efficacy of verum acupuncture.
PubMed: 38136419
DOI: 10.3390/cancers15245875 -
Journal of Occupational Health Jan 2024To evaluate whether trigger point acupuncture (TrPA) is beneficial for office workers who have reduced job performance (presenteeism) due to chronic neck and shoulder... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
Clinical effectiveness of trigger point acupuncture on chronic neck and shoulder pain (katakori) with work productivity loss in office workers: a randomized clinical trial.
OBJECTIVES
To evaluate whether trigger point acupuncture (TrPA) is beneficial for office workers who have reduced job performance (presenteeism) due to chronic neck and shoulder pain (katakori).
METHODS
A 4-week single-center randomized controlled trial was conducted on 20 eligible female office workers with chronic neck and shoulder pain of at least 3-month duration. The control group implemented only workplace-recommended presenteeism measures, whereas the intervention group received TrPA up to 4 times per month in addition to the presenteeism measures recommended by each workplace. The major outcome measure was the relative presenteeism score on the World Health Organization Health and Work Performance (WHO-HPQ). The secondary outcome measures were pain intensity (numerical rating scale), absolute presenteeism (WHO-HPQ), anxiety and depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale; HADS), catastrophic thoughts related to pain (Pain Catastrophizing Scale; PCS), and sleep (Athens Insomnia Scale; AIS).
RESULTS
All 9 cases in the intervention group and 11 cases in the control group were analyzed. TrPA up to 4 times per month reduced the intensity of neck and shoulder pain by 20% (P < .01, d = 1.65) and improved labor productivity (relative presenteeism value) by 0.25 (P < .01, d = 1.33) compared with the control group over 1 month. No significant differences were observed between the 2 groups in terms of absolute presenteeism score, HADS, PCS, or AIS.
CONCLUSIONS
These results suggest that regular intervention with TrPA may be effective in the relative presenteeism score before and after the intervention and the degree of neck and shoulder pain over 28 days compared with the control group.
Topics: Humans; Female; Work Performance; Shoulder Pain; Trigger Points; Treatment Outcome; Neck Pain; Acupuncture Therapy
PubMed: 38273431
DOI: 10.1093/joccuh/uiad016 -
Medicine Nov 2023Patients with functional anorectal pain (FAP) usually feel pain in the anal region, foreign body sensation, and defecation disorders. The pain may radiate to the... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
BACKGROUND
Patients with functional anorectal pain (FAP) usually feel pain in the anal region, foreign body sensation, and defecation disorders. The pain may radiate to the perineum, thighs, and waist. Conventional biofeedback, local nerve block and surgical treatment have certain limitations. Thread-embedding acupuncture (TEA) is a complementary and alternative therapy, which is widely used in the clinical practice of traditional Chinese medicine to treat functional anorectal pain. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of the catgut-embedding acupuncture in patients with FAP.
METHODS
FAP patients were enrolled and randomly divided into a thread-embedding acupuncture group (n = 35) and a sham-embedding acupuncture control group (n = 36). Patients underwent treatment twice monthly for 2 months and were assessed before and after treatments for visual analogue scales (VAS) of anorectal pain, VAS of lumbar pain or soreness, VAS of abdominal distension or pain, anal incontinence index, and SF-36 quality of life. The SF-36 quality of life score included assessment of physical functioning, role-physical, bodily-pain, general health, role-emotional, social functioning, vitality, and mental health.
RESULT
The total effective rate was 85.71% for the treatment group versus 8.33% of the controls after 2 months (P < .001). The patients' anal rectum VAS score was significantly higher after treatment versus pretreatment (P < .01), while the physical functioning, role-physical, bodily-pain, role-emotional, and mental health in the experimental group and the role-emotional, and mental health in the control group were all significantly improved versus pretreatment (P < .05). The anorectal VAS score, anal incontinence index, and the SF-36 scores of the physical functioning, role-physical, bodily-pain, role-emotional, and mental health were better in the treatment group compared to the control group (P < .05). Most importantly, there were no adverse reactions observed in either group during the treatment.
CONCLUSION
The thread-embedding acupuncture treatment effectively and safely improved the emotional anxiety and quality of life in FAP patients.
Topics: Humans; Acupuncture Points; Catgut; Quality of Life; Pelvic Pain; Low Back Pain; Acupuncture Therapy
PubMed: 37933076
DOI: 10.1097/MD.0000000000035462 -
World Journal of Diabetes Dec 2023Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common complication of diabetes mellitus and can lead to serious complications. Therapeutic strategies for pain control are... (Clinical Trial)
Clinical Trial
BACKGROUND
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common complication of diabetes mellitus and can lead to serious complications. Therapeutic strategies for pain control are available but there are few approaches that influence neurological deficits such as numbness.
AIM
To investigate the effectiveness of acupuncture on improving neurological deficits in patients suffering from type 2 DPN.
METHODS
The acupuncture in DPN (ACUDPN) study was a two-armed, randomized, controlled, parallel group, open, multicenter clinical trial. Patients were randomized in a 1:1 ratio into two groups: The acupuncture group received 12 acupuncture treatments over 8 wk, and the control group was on a waiting list during the first 16 wk, before it received the same treatment as the other group. Both groups received routine care. Outcome parameters were evaluated after 8, 16 and 24 wk and included neurological scores, such as an 11-point numeric rating scale (NRS) 11 for hypesthesia, neuropathic pain symptom inventory (NPSI), neuropathy deficit score (NDS), neuropathy symptom score (NSS); nerve conduction studies (NCS) were assessed with a handheld point-of-care device.
RESULTS
Sixty-two participants were included. The NRS for numbness showed a difference of 2.3 ( < 0.001) in favor of the acupuncture group, the effect persisted until week 16 with a difference of 2.2 ( < 0.001) between groups and 1.8 points at week 24 compared to baseline. The NPSI was improved in the acupuncture group by 12.6 points ( < 0.001) at week 8, the NSS score at week 8 with a difference of 1.3 ( < 0.001); the NDS and the TNSc score improved for the acupuncture group in week 8, with a difference of 2.0 points ( < 0.001) compared to the control group. Effects were persistent in week 16 with a difference of 1.8 points ( < 0.05). The NCS showed no meaningful changes. In both groups only minor side effects were reported.
CONCLUSION
Study results suggest that acupuncture may be beneficial in type 2 diabetic DPN and seems to lead to a reduction in neurological deficits. No serious adverse events were recorded and the adherence to treatment was high. Confirmatory randomized sham-controlled clinical studies with adequate patient numbers are needed to confirm the results.
PubMed: 38222786
DOI: 10.4239/wjd.v14.i12.1813 -
Frontiers in Human Neuroscience 2023Since the analgesic effect of acupuncture stimulation is derived from different mechanisms depending on the type of pain, it is important to know which acupuncture...
INTRODUCTION
Since the analgesic effect of acupuncture stimulation is derived from different mechanisms depending on the type of pain, it is important to know which acupuncture points to stimulate. In this study, to confirm the effect of acupuncture stimulation on acute pain from a neurological point of view, somatosensory evoked potential and sensory threshold changes were evaluated to identify the nerve range that is affected by acupuncture stimulation on LI4 (Hapgok acupuncture point, of the radial nerve) during acute pain.
METHODS
The subjects were 40 healthy men and women aged 19-35 years. The study was designed as a randomly controlled, crossover trial with acupuncture stimulation at LI4 as the intervention. The washout period for acupuncture stimulation was 2 weeks, and the subjects were divided into two groups, i.e., an acupuncture stimulation group and a nonstimulation group, with 10 men and 10 women in each group. Somatosensory evoked potential measurement was carried out for 5 min by alternately applying 2 HZ-pulse electrical stimulation to the thumb and the little finger of the hand acupunctured with a 64-channel electroencephalogram. The verbal rating scale was used before and after each acupuncture stimulation session.
RESULT AND DISCUSSION
The results of the study confirmed that the somatosensory evoked potential amplitude value of the thumb was significantly decreased and that the intensity of sensory stimulation corresponding to a verbal rating scale score of 6 was significantly increased only in the thumb after acupuncture stimulation. Therefore, the results show that acupuncture treatment for acute pain is more effective when direct acupuncture stimulation is applied to the painful area.
PubMed: 38021228
DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2023.1281832 -
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine... Aug 2023To explore the difference of catgut embedding effect between acupoints and non-acupoints in patients with abdominal obesity (AO). (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
OBJECTIVE
To explore the difference of catgut embedding effect between acupoints and non-acupoints in patients with abdominal obesity (AO).
METHODS
In this multicenter, double-blind, randomized controlled trial, all subjects were randomly assigned into the acupoint catgut embedding (ACE) group and control group (catgut embedding at non-acupoints). With a 12-week actual intervention period and a 4-week period of follow-up. Waist circumference (WC), body weight, body mass index (BMI), hip circumference (HC) and appetite were applied and assessed at baseline and after 6, 12 and 16 weeks.
RESULTS
After the total intervention phase (12 weeks), the WC, body weight, BMI, HC and visual analogue scale scores of appetite, decreased significantly in the two groups as compared to the baseline (0.001). Meanwhile, after the 4-week follow-up, the indicators still decreased significantly in the ACE group (0.001). At 12 and 16 weeks, catgut embedding at acupoints showed significantly advantages to non-acupoints in WC and appetite (0.05). No serious adverse events were observed in ACE group and control group.
CONCLUSIONS
Catgut embedding at acupoints and non-acupoints are all effective and safe for AO. ACE can effectively treat AO as expected and deliver lasting results.
Topics: Humans; Obesity, Abdominal; Acupuncture Therapy; Catgut; Obesity; Body Weight; Acupuncture Points
PubMed: 37454263
DOI: 10.19852/j.cnki.jtcm.20230608.002