Acupuncture for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
Carpal tunnel syndrome causes symptoms of tingling, numbness, weakness and pain in the wrists, hands and fingers.
It occurs when the carpal tunnel inside the wrist swells and puts pressure on one or more nerves. Carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms usually starts and progresses gradually and the pain can come and go.
There is often no single cause of carpal tunnel syndrome. A combination of risk factors contributes to the development of the condition.
What Does The Research Say?
The following insights are obtained from systematic reviews and analysis of clinical trials investigating the efficacy of Chinese medicine and acupuncture for carpal tunnel syndrome.
2023 Frontiers in Neuroscience
Acupuncture's effectiveness for carpal tunnel syndrome uncovers better pain relief compared to night splints and potential benefits when used alongside other treatments
Acupuncture was found to be more effective than night splints for pain relief, but no differences were observed in symptom severity and functional status. When used alongside other treatments, acupuncture showed potential in improving various CTS factors. However, the evidence quality was generally low or very low.
Acupuncture for carpal tunnel syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials Dong Q, Li X, Yuan P, Chen G, Li J, Deng J, Wu F, Yang Y, Fu H, Jin R
2022 Journal of Acupuncture Research
Electroacupuncture treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome was reported to be effective and showed a significant difference from the control group.
Although electroacupuncture treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome was reported to be effective and showed a significant difference from the control group, in some evaluation items no significant differences were observed. The quality and the number of studies included in this review was limiting, therefore an accurate evaluation of the efficacy of electroacupuncture treatment for CTS was not possible.
Electroacupuncture for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Review of Randomized Controlled Trials Park CW, Lim MJ, Lee SW, Yi YH, Song DW, Yu SG, Kim MJ, Oh DY, Choi HJ, Ju AR
2022 Medical Acupuncture
Acupuncture may be effective and safe for short-term pain reduction and functional improvement in hand-and-wrist conditions.
In the 10 included RCTs (622 participants), 6 had a low risk of bias. For cryotherapy-induced pain, 1 trial showed significant pain reduction post treatment. For rheumatoid arthritis, 1 trial shown significant pain reduction and function improvements post treatment and short-term. For carpal tunnel syndrome, 1 trial showed significant pain reduction and functional improvements intermediate-term, while 3 trials suggested no significant difference. For tenosynovitis, 1 trial showed significant pain reduction and function improvements short-term. For poststroke impairments, 1 trial showed significant function improvements post treatment and at short-term, while another trial suggested no significant difference. No significant improvements were noted for trapezio-metacarpal joint osteoarthritis. In 2 trials, adverse effects occurred in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome; yet acupuncture appeared to be relatively safe.
The Effect of Acupuncture on Hand and Wrist Pain Intensity, Functional Status, and Quality of Life in Adults: A Systematic Review Trinh K, Zhou F, Belski N, Deng J, Wong CY
2021 Journal of Pharmacopuncture
Acupuncture treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome, unlike conventional medicine which has serious side effects, showed no serious side effects in papers that reported adverse effects.
No significant adverse effect of acupuncture was reported in any study. However, adverse effects of the comparator intervention included gastrointestinal side effects due to ibuprofen as well as nausea and gastric pain due to prednisolone. In particular, the adverse effects of prednisolone decreased the number of participants in clinical trials. The abovementioned findings confirm the safety of acupuncture, which has no serious side effects.
Effect of Manual Acupuncture for Mild-to-Moderate Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Systematic Review Huh JH, Jeong HI, Kim KH
2021 Journal of Pharmacopuncture
Acupuncture can be used for carpal tunnel syndrome treatment without serious adverse effects.
In the selected papers, several measurement tools measured the post-treatment improvement of patients and, in most cases, a comparison of the acupuncture and control groups showed that acupuncture treatment was significantly more effective than the comparator intervention. Thus, acupuncture treatment was positively evaluated with regard to efficacy for mild-to-moderate carpal tunnel syndrome.
Effect of Manual Acupuncture for Mild-to-Moderate Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Systematic Review Huh JH, Jeong HI, Kim KH
2020 Neuropediatrics
Acupuncture and electroacupuncture are a therapeutic option for mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome with a medium level of scientific evidence, tending towards a high level, and with a medium level of recommendation.
The search retrieved 698 articles in total. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 21 articles were included. The level of evidence of all the articles was medium-high. The level of recommendation was medium, and the risk of bias was neutral, with a tendency towards low bias. The articles included revealed symptomatic and neurophysiological improvements, both peripheral as well as central, due to the cerebral response that occurs associated with the function of the median nerve.
Acupuncture and electroacupuncture in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome: Systematic review Badia M, Santafé MM
2019 Clinical Rehabilitation
For both symptom relief and function improvement, manual acupuncture is superior to ibuprofen for carpal tunnel syndrome.
Result of this systematic review has shown that acupuncture and related therapies appear to be effective in improving symptoms, function and pain in carpal tunnel syndrome.
However, validity of such conclusion is limited as majority of the included trials are at high risk of bias from lack of blinding.
Associated adverse events were minimal.
Acupuncture and related interventions for carpal tunnel syndrome: systematic review Wu IXY, Lam VCK, Ho RST, Cheung WKW, Sit RWS, Chou LW, Zhang Y, Leung TH, Chung VCH
2019 Timisoara Physical Education and Rehabilitation Journal
The results of manual, traditional and non-invasive therapies are similar to those of surgical treatments, and even better in a very large number of cases.
In the current context of medicine and therapy, statistics indicate a tendency to approach the carpal tunnel syndrome by surgical treatment, to the detriment of approaching the pathology through a non-invasive technique. The relevant specialized articles selected for this study, and published in the past 10 years, prove that alternative medicine, physical therapy, electrotherapy, and the natural evolution of untreated patients or of patients exposed to the placebo effect, may significantly improve the symptoms of the carpal tunnel syndrome.
Systematic review of treatment methods for the carpal tunnel syndrome Glazer C, Pantea C
2017 The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine
The majority of randomised controlled trials showed benefit for acupuncture over control in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy, Bell's palsy, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
Fifteen studies were included: 13 original RCTs, a long-term follow-up, and a re-analysis of a prior RCT. The selected RCTs studied acupuncture for neuropathy caused by diabetes, Bell's palsy, carpal tunnel syndrome, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and idiopathic conditions.
Acupuncture is probably effective in the treatment of HIV-related neuropathy, and there is insufficient evidence for its benefits in idiopathic neuropathy. Acupuncture appears to improve nerve conduction study parameters in both sensory and motor nerves.
Acupuncture is beneficial in some peripheral neuropathies, but more rigorously designed studies using sham-acupuncture control are needed to characterize its effect and optimal use better.
Acupuncture for the Treatment of Peripheral Neuropathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Alexandra Dimitrova, Charles Murchison, and Barry Oken.
2015 Neurology
The majority of trials demonstrate a positive effect of acupuncture over control condition in the treatment of neuropathy.
The majority of RCTs reviewed showed clear benefit for acupuncture over control in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy, Bell’s palsy and carpal tunnel syndrome. Acupuncture is probably effective in the treatment of HIV-related neuropathy and there is insufficient evidence for its benefits in idiopathic neuropathy. Meta-analyses of all diabetic neuropathy and bell’s palsy data using a summary estimate random effects model showed combined Odds Ratio (OR) of 4.23, p<0.001 favoring acupuncture over control for pain outcomes. The majority of trials demonstrate a positive effect of acupuncture over control condition in the treatment of neuropathy. Further more rigorously designed studies are needed to better characterize this effect.
Effects of Acupuncture on Neuropathic Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Alexandra Dimitrova, Charles Murchison, Barry Oken
2015 Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies
Short-term acupuncture treatment is more effective than ibuprofen for mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome.
In our study, none of the patients treated with acupuncture developed complications, whereas five patients treated with ibuprofen had gastrointestinal side effects (we then used omeprazole); however, none of them withdrew from the study due to the adverse effects. Therefore, acupuncture is superior in safety as well.
The limitations of this study include the low number of treatment sessions in the group treated with acupuncture. If the number of treatment sessions were added, better therapeutic results may have been obtained.
Overall, it seems that acupuncture is a relatively uncomplicated and safe treatment option for patients with mild to moderate CTS and can improve symptoms and electrodiagnostic parameters.
Efficacies of Acupuncture and Anti-inflammatory Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Hadianfard M, Bazrafshan E, Momeninejad H, Jahani N.
2010 The Journal of Pain
A meta-analysis of acupuncture versus steroid block therapy favored acupuncture in terms of responder rate.
Our systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrate that the evidence for acupuncture as a symptomatic therapy of carpal tunnel syndrome is encouraging but not convincing. The total number of included RCTs and their methodological quality were low. Further rigorous studies are required to establish whether acupuncture has therapeutic value for this indication.
Acupuncture for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials Lee, H., Shim, H., Shin, B., Jung, A., Lee, M., & Ernst, E.
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Although well-conducted clinical research can help members of the public to make better-informed decisions about their healthcare, we do not make any claims that any particular treatment may be efficacious for any individual person.
When you consult with our Chinese medicine practitioners, you'll receive personalised advice and treatment based on your symptoms and Chinese medicine diagnosis.
Scientific References
Browse our collection of scientific clinical research on acupuncture for carpal tunnel syndrome.
It includes recent and reputable papers published by peer-reviewed journals within the last 10 years.
2022, Oct 01
Shoulder Pain and the Potential Role of Acupuncture: A Narrative Review of Clinical Practice and Treatment Guidelines
Perspectives on Integrative Medicine
Acupuncture is safe and may be a cost-effective treatment for shoulder pain. There were 131 statements recommending the use of acupuncture for shoulder pain across 12 subtypes of shoulder pain. The most common statements were for non-specific ‘shoulder pain.’ There were 11 statements against the use of acupuncture for shoulder pain and three subtypes of shoulder pain. The level of evidence in studies of acupuncture treatment for shoulder pain is low, therefore, further research is needed. Recommendations for the use of acupuncture for shoulder pain are increasing but lag behind those for other pain problems such as low back pain.
Birch S, Lee MS, Kim TH, Alraek T Full Article
2022, Sep
Role of acupuncture in the treatment of migraine
Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics
The review suggests that acupuncture should be integrated into existing migraine therapy protocols.
Endres HG, Diener HC, Molsberger A Full Article
2022, Sep 14
Early intervention with acupuncture improves the outcome of patients with Bell's palsy: A propensity score-matching analysis
Frontiers in Neurology
Acupuncture intervention at the acute stage of Bell's palsy (BP) could shorten the time to recovery and improve the outcome.
Yang LS, Zhou DF, Zheng SZ, Zhao BM, Li HG, Chen QQ, Zhong Y, Yang HZ, Zhang K, Tang CZ Full Article
2022, Aug 18
Electroacupuncture for the treatment of frozen shoulder: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Frontiers in Medicine
Electroacupuncture is reported to improve FS pain and function compared with control treatments. Additionally, EA can be used as an adjunct therapy for FS pain. EA could emerge as a potent intervention against FS.
Heo JW, Jo JH, Lee JJ, Kang H, Choi TY, Lee MS, Kim JI Full Article
2022, Jun 23
Efficacy of Acupuncture, Intravenous Lidocaine, and Diet in the Management of Patients with Fibromyalgia: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Healthcare
The acupuncture showed a significant effect in the management of fibromyalgia patients. It reduced pain, depression, and enhanced the quality of life. While physiotherapy showed a significant improvement in the quality of life only. In contrast, intravenous lidocaine and diet showed no significant differences when compared with sham/placebo.
Almutairi NM, Hilal FM, Bashawyah A, Dammas FA, Yamak Altinpulluk E, Hou JD, Lin JA, Varrassi G, Chang KV, Allam AES Full Article
2022, May
Comparative effectiveness of multiple acupuncture therapies for primary insomnia: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized trial
Sleep Medicine
With moderate to low certainty of evidence, multiple acupuncture therapies showed impressive insomnia improvement, especially acupoints catgut embedding (ACE), auricular acupressure or auricular acupuncture plus manual acupuncture (AP + MA), and electroacupuncture plus acupoint application (EA + APA).
Lu Y, Zhu H, Wang Q, Tian C, Lai H, Hou L, Liu Y, Gao Y, Liu M, Yang F, Ni X, Lin L, Niu J, Tian J, Ge L Full Article
2022, May 31
Electroacupuncture for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Journal of Acupuncture Research Korean Acupuncture & Moxibustion Medicine Society
Electroacupuncture was reported to have significant treatment results compared with the control group in methods such as total effectiveness, electromyography, and tip pinch strength. However, the quality of the studies (using risk of bias) does not allow reliable conclusions to be made. Many high quality (low risk of bias) randomized controlled trials are needed to examine the efficacy of electroacupuncture treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome.
Park CW, Lim MJ, Lee SW, Yi YH, Song DW, Yu SG, Kim MJ, Oh DY, Choi HJ, Ju AR Full Article
2022, Apr 18
Chinese herbal medicines for hyperthyroidism
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews Cochrane
The results suggest that traditional Chinese herbal medicines added to other routine treatment have a therapeutic potential for people with hyperthyroidism.
Zeng X, Yuan Y, Wu T, Yan L, Su H Full Article
2022, Mar 31
Effects of Acupuncture Combined with Moxibustion on Reproductive and Metabolic Outcomes in Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Among patients with PCOS, using acupuncture combined with moxibustion as a complementary therapy to basic treatments can improve pregnancy, ovulation, and miscarriage rates, the levels some sex hormones, and metabolic indicators, with good safety. Additionally, this combination therapy may have no effect on the FSH, oestradiol, or dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate level.
Li P, Peng J, Ding Z, Zhou X, Liang R Full Article
2022, Feb
Effect of Acupuncture on Pain, Fatigue, Sleep, Physical Function, Stiffness, Well-Being, and Safety in Fibromyalgia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Journal of Pain Research American Society of Pain & Neuroscience
Moderate quality of evidence supports acupuncture in reducing pain in patients with FM. Therefore, acupuncture is recommended as a treatment for FM.
Zheng C, Zhou T Full Article
2022, Feb 01
The Effect of Acupuncture on Hand and Wrist Pain Intensity, Functional Status, and Quality of Life in Adults: A Systematic Review
Medical Acupuncture American Academy of Medical Acupuncture
Acupuncture may be effective and safe for short-term pain reduction and functional improvement in hand-and-wrist conditions. Clinicians should interpret the results with caution due to small sample sizes and clinical heterogeneity. Future research is warranted.
Trinh K, Zhou F, Belski N, Deng J, Wong CY Full Article
2022, Jan
Efficacy and safety of Duhuo Jisheng Decoction add-on bisphosphonate medications in patients with osteoporosis: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Adding Duhuo Jisheng Decoction (DHJSD) on bisphosphonate medications seems to be an effective and safe strategy in treating patients with osteoporosis.
Huang CY, Cheng CJ, Chiou WF, Chang WC, Kang YN, Lee MH Full Article
2022, Jan
Systematic review and meta-analysis of complementary treatments for women with symptomatic endometriosis
International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics
Numerous complementary treatments have been used to alleviate the symptoms of endometriosis, but only acupuncture has demonstrated a significant improvement in outcomes.
Ticiana A.A. Mira, Mariana M. Buen, Murilo G. Borges, Daniela A. Yela, Cristina L. Benetti-Pinto Full Article
2021, Dec 31
Effect of Manual Acupuncture for Mild-to-Moderate Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Systematic Review
Journal of Pharmacopuncture
Manual acupuncture can be used for carpal tunnel syndrome treatment without serious adverse effects.
Huh JH, Jeong HI, Kim KH Full Article
2021, Oct 31
Effects of Acupuncture after Rotator Cuff Surgery: A Systematic Review
Journal of Korean Medicine Rehabilitation
6 RCTs were finally selected, and acupuncture showed positive results for pain relief and functional recovery after rotator cuff surgery. However, the analyzed 6 RCTs showed a high overall risk of bias. In the future, RCTs with a higher level of evidence on the effect of acupuncture after rotator cuff surgery need to be continuously conducted.
Lee SJ, Ko YM, Park JS, Park TY, Lee JH, Cho JH, Hwang EH, Kim KJ, Choi MY, Song YK Full Article
2021, Sep 23
A comprehensive insight into effects of green tea extract in polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review
Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology
This review suggests that green tea extract (GTE) could be considered a potential agent to attenuate PCOS complications mainly due to its effect on weight loss and glycemic levels.
Maleki V, Taheri E, Varshosaz P, Tabrizi FPF, Moludi J, Jafari-Vayghan H, Shadnoush M, Jabbari SHY, Seifoleslami M, Alizadeh M Full Article
2021, Aug 31
Acupuncture Treatment for Shoulder Impingement Syndrome: A Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Journal of Acupuncture Research Korean Acupuncture & Moxibustion Medicine Society
No major side effects were reported. Acupuncture may be an effective and safe treatment for SIS however, further RCTs are required.
Park JE, Kim WY, Lee SJ, Oh DY, Lee MC, Jeon MK, Kim HJ, Ahn JY, Yang SH, Choi YY, Shin NY, Nam HJ Full Article
2021, Jul 27
Herbal therapy for ameliorating nonalcoholic fatty liver disease via rebuilding the intestinal microecology
Chinese Medicine International Society for Chinese Medicine
The key roles of CHMs in the regulation of gut microbiota and the gut-liver axis along with their mechanisms (such as modulating intestinal permeability, reducing the inflammatory response, protecting liver cells, improving lipid metabolism, and modulating nuclear receptors), were well summarized. All the knowledge and information presented here will be very helpful for researchers to better understand the applications and mechanisms of CHMs for treatment of NAFLD.
Yang XF, Lu M, You L, Gen H, Yuan L, Tian T, Li CY, Xu K, Hou J, Lei M Full Article
2021, Jun 22
Efficacy of acupuncture in the treatment of fibromyalgia
Orthopedic Reviews
An increasing number of studies support the utilization of acupuncture for the treatment of fibromyalgia. Though no head-to-head comparison was able to show the superiority of acupuncture to other therapies, mounting evidence supports its use as part of multimodal approaches to treatment with additive efficacy to traditional therapy. Further research will likely provide data on effective regimens and combination therapies.
Berger AA, Liu Y, Nguyen J, Spraggins R, Reed DS, Lee C, Hasoon J, Kaye AD Full Article
2021, Apr 15
Effects of massage and acupuncture on the range of motion and daily living ability of patients with frozen shoulder complicated with cervical spondylosis
American Journal of Translational Research
Massage combined with acupuncture can better improve the ROM of joints and daily living ability of patients with frozen shoulder complicated with cervical spondylosis.
Liu M, Liu Y, Peng C, Wang H, Xu Y, Jiao S, Ding Y Full Article
2021, Jan 11
Efficacy and safety of traditional Chinese medicines for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a systematic literature review of randomized controlled trials
Chinese Medicine International Society for Chinese Medicine
There is some evidence from RCTs that supported the effectiveness and safety of TCMs for NAFLD. However, no conclusive recommendations can be made due to the questionable quality of the RCTs. Improvement in the RCT protocol, the use of a larger sample size, a setting of multicenter, and a more focused approach in selecting TCMs are recommended for developing high quality evidence about the use of TCMs in managing NAFLD.
Liang, Z., Chen, X., Shi, J. et al. Full Article
2021, Jan 11
Efficacy and safety of traditional Chinese medicines for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a systematic literature review of randomized controlled trials
Chinese Medicine International Society for Chinese Medicine
Based on this review, the efficacy of TCMs in NAFLD management appears to be promising and the risks associated with the investigated TCMs were reportedly minimal. However, no conclusion can be made so far due to the concerns over the quality of RCTs and the possible risks of bias. Improvement in the RCT protocol, the use of a larger sample size, a setting of a multicenter, a more focused approach in selecting TCMs and measures that allow the investigation of long term safety of TCMs are recommended for achieving a high-level quality of TCMs evidence for NAFLD to be used to inform clinical practice.
Liang Z, Chen X, Shi J, Hu H, Xue Y, Ung COL Full Article
2021, Jan
Efficacy and safety of standardized Ginkgo biloba L. leaves extract as an adjuvant therapy for sudden sensorineural hearing loss: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Journal of Ethnopharmacology
The results of the current study suggested that GBE might be effective and promising as an adjuvant to corticosteroids in the initial treatment of moderate to profound SSNHL
Si X, Yu Z, Ren X, Huang L, Feng Y. Full Article
2020, Dec 17
Effects of manual acupuncture and electroacupuncture for lateral epicondylalgia of musculoskeletal origin: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Acupuncture in Medicine British Medical Acupuncture Society
Low-level evidence suggests positive effects of acupuncture, but not electroacupuncture, for pain, related-disability, and strength, in LE of musculoskeletal origin, in the short term.
Navarro-Santana MJ, Sanchez-Infante J, Gómez-Chiguano GF, Cummings M, Fernández-de-las-Peñas C, Plaza-Manzano G Full Article
2020, Dec 15
Acupuncture vs. Pharmacological Prophylaxis of Migraine: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Frontiers in Neurology
Based on moderate certainty of evidence, we conclude that acupuncture is mildly more effective and much safer than medication for the prophylaxis of migraine.
Giovanardi CM, Cinquini M, Aguggia M, Allais G, Campesato M, Cevoli S, Gentili F, Matrà A and Minozzi S Full Article
2020, Oct 16
Efficacy and Safety of Acupuncture Therapy for Patients with Acute Ankle Sprain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
This study has indicated that acupuncture is effective in relieving acute ankle sprains.
Liu AF, Gong SW, Chen JX, Zhai JB. Full Article
2020, Oct 21
An evaluation of the effects and safety of Zuogui pill for treating osteoporosis: Current evidence for an ancient Chinese herbal formula
Phytotherapy Research
The results showed that Zuogui pill (ZGP), combined with anti-osteoporosis drugs, significantly increased bone mineral density (BMD) at the lumbar spine, Ward's area, and total hip. In terms of markers for improved bone metabolism, ZGP plus conventional drugs dramatically improved the levels of alkaline phosphatase, bone Gla protein, bone alkaline phosphatase, and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase.
Li J, Sun K, Qi B, Feng G, Wang W, Sun Q, Zheng C, Wei X, Jia Y Full Article
2020, Oct 06
The Efficacy and Safety of Traditional Chinese Medicine Tonifying-Shen (Kidney) Principle for Primary Osteoporosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Our meta-analysis provides promising evidence to suggest that using the TS (TK) principle combined with conventional Western medicine (CWM) for primary osteoporosis (POP) is more effective than using CWM alone. Also, both of them are safe and reliable for POP.
Liang J, Wang F, Huang J, Xu Y, Chen G Full Article
2020, Sep 18
Systems pharmacology-based approach to investigate the mechanisms of Danggui-Shaoyao-san prescription for treatment of Alzheimer’s disease
BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies
Overall, this study proposed an integrative systems pharmacology approach to disclose the therapeutic mechanisms of DSS against AD, which also provides novel in silico paradigm for investigating the effective substances of complex TCM prescription.
Wu, Q., Chen, Y., Gu, Y. et al. Full Article
2020, Sep 15
Efficacy and Safety of Duhuo Jisheng Decoction for Postmenopausal Osteoporosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
The pooled estimate suggested that Duhuo Jisheng Decoction (DHJSD) combined with conventional medical therapies has a certain clinical curative effect on postmenopausal osteoporosis.
Li J, Wang W, Feng G, Du J, Kang S, Li Z, Zhu W, Shang H Full Article
2020, Aug 12
Therapeutic Effects and Mechanisms of Herbal Medicines for Treating Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Review
Frontiers in Pharmacology
Herbal medicines are thought to be promising resources in the development of effective therapeutic agents for PCOS. Further studies that include methodological quality assessment and quantitative synthesis of outcomes are recommended.
Kwon Chan-Young, Cho Ik-Hyun, Park Kyoung Sun Full Article
2020, Jun 25
Effectiveness of Soyo-san (Xiaoyao-san) and its Modifications on Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Journal of Physiology & Pathology in Korean Medicine
We found that Soyo-san (Xiaoyao-san) and its modifications were effective for improvement of general symptoms and fatigue severity in CFS post-treatment.
Kim J, Song J, Nam D Full Article
2020, Jun 09
Reduced Stroke Risk among Patients with Atrial Fibrillation Receiving Chinese Herbal Medicines Treatment: Analysis of Domestic Data in Taiwan
Medicina
The findings of the present study suggest that adding CHMs to conventional therapy could decrease subsequent stroke risk for AF patients. It is also suggested that prospective randomized trials are needed to further clarify if the detected association revealed in this study supports a causal link, and to identify the specific CHMs that may be beneficial to AF patients.
Zheng LC, Livneh H, Chen WJ, Lin MC, Lu MC, Yeh CC, Tsai TY Full Article
2020, May 26
Acupuncture and electroacupuncture in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome: Systematic review
Neuropediatrics
Acupuncture and electroacupuncture are a therapeutic option for mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome with a medium level of scientific evidence, tending towards a high level, and with a medium level of recommendation.
Badia M, Santafé MM Full Article
2020, Apr 14
Effects of date fruit (Phoenix dactylifera L.) on labor and delivery outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis
BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth
Meta-Analysis showed that date fruit consumption can significantly reduce active phase of labor, and also it can significantly improve the bishop score. Date fruit consumption had no effects on the duration of first, second, and third stages of labor, and the frequency of cesarean section.
Bagherzadeh Karimi A, Elmi A, Mirghafourvand M, Baghervand Navid R Full Article
2020, Mar
The effectiveness of acupuncture in the management of persistent regional myofascial head and neck pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Complementary Therapies in Medicine
This academic article concludes acupuncture is effective in relieving persistent head and neck myofascial pain.
Farag AM, Malacarne A, Pagni SE, Maloney GE. Full Article
2020, Jan
Danggui-Shaoyao-San for dementia: A PRISMA-compliant systematic review and meta-analysis
Medicine
These estimates suggest that DSS provides clinically important reductions in symptoms of AD and VD and can be a promising anti-dementia drug candidate.
Kim Y, Cho SH. Full Article
2020, Jan 15
Getting Well Is More Than Gaining Weight – Patients’ Experiences of a Treatment Program for Anorexia Nervosa Including Ear Acupuncture
Issues in Mental Health Nursing
This study has highlighted the effectiveness of acupuncture in improving symptoms of anorexia nervosa such as reduced stress levels and constipation.
Olsson A, Landgren K Full Article
2019, Oct 31
Theabrownin from Pu-erh tea attenuates hypercholesterolemia via modulation of gut microbiota and bile acid metabolism
Nature Communications
The lipid and cholesterol-lowering effects of Pu-erh tea have been shown to be of clinical value in treating obesity, fatty liver and NAFLD. Specifically, Pu-erh tea was found to lower TG and TC levels more significantly than green, oolong, or black teas. In this study, mice and human subjects receiving Pu-erh tea exhibited significant decreases in hepatic and serum cholesterol levels. These results confirmed other reported lipid and cholesterol-lowering effects of Pu-erh tea in both mice and human subjects.
Huang, F., Zheng, X., Ma, X. et al. Full Article
2019, Sep 01
Systematic review of treatment methods for the carpal tunnel syndrome
Timisoara Physical Education and Rehabilitation Journal
The results of treatment comparisons have proved that non-invasive therapies are superior to surgical treatments, taking into consideration symptom improvement, the maximum period up to noticeable results, relapse situations, patients’ preferences, etc.
Glazer C, Pantea C Full Article
2019, May
Effect of Gua Sha therapy on patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy: A randomized controlled trial
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice
This RCT showcased that Gua Sha therapy significantly reduced severity of neuropathy symptoms, improved performance of sensory function, reduced peripheral artery disease, and better controlled plasma glucose.
Xie X, Lu L, Zhou X, Zhong C, Ge G, Huang H, Zhang X, Zeng Y Full Article
2019, Mar 19
Acupuncture to Promote Recovery of Disorder of Consciousness after Traumatic Brain Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
This systematic review highlights that acupuncture is effective in improving traumatic brain injury recovery. Acupuncture and other interventions vastly improve clinical outcomes compared to drugs alone.
Tan L, Zeng L, Wang N, Deng M, Chen Y, Ma T, Zhang L, Xu Z. Full Article
2019, Feb
Acupuncture for the treatment of sudden sensorineural hearing loss: A systematic review and meta-analysis: Acupuncture for SSNHL
Complementary Therapies in Medicine
This systematic review showcased that acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment option for SSNHL patients who could not be cured by drugs alone.
Chen S, Zhao M, Qiu J. Full Article
2019, Jan 20
Systematic review and meta-analysis of anti-hyperglycaemic effects of Pu-erh tea
International Journal of Food Science & Technology Institute of Food Science and Technology
The results gleaned from meta-analysis have shown that the intake of Pu-erh tea in diabetic mice has a significant effect on lowering blood glucose after 21 days. Based upon conclusive findings derived from this research, the authors recommend with professional confidence that people drink Pu-erh tea for more than 3 weeks in order to maximise the effect on lowering blood sugar.
Lin, H.-C., Lee, C.-T., Yen, Y.-Y., Chu, C.-L., Hsieh, Y.-P., Yang, C.-S. and Lan, S.-J. Full Article
2018, Dec 30
Clinical Effectiveness of Acupuncture in the Treatment of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Systematic Review
The Journal of Internal Korean Medicine The Society of Internal Korean Medicine
In this meta-analysis, acupuncture relieved hepatic steatosis, and reduced TC, and TG in NAFLD patients. more well-planned studies are still needed due to the heterogeneity and the considerable methodological flaws in the analyzed trials.
Joon Hyun, Joo-bok Lee, So-yeon Kim, Chang-woo Han Full Article
2018, Oct
Oriental herbal medicine and moxibustion for polycystic ovary syndrome
Medicine
According to current evidence, OHM combined with moxibustion might be beneficial for treating PCOS. Moreover, the treatment might improve the therapeutic effects of conventional WMs including clomiphene citrate, oral contraceptives, and/or metformin. However, the findings should be interpreted with caution, owing to poor methodological quality of the included studies. Further larger, high-quality, rigorous RCTs should be conducted in this regard.
Kwon, Chan-Young, Lee, Boram, Park, Kyoung Sun Full Article
2018, Apr 22
Acupuncture at Tiaokou (ST38) for Shoulder Adhesive Capsulitis: What Strengths Does It Have? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
This review suggests that acupuncture at Tiaokou/ST38 (as sole treatment or in combination with shoulder acupoints) achieved statistically significant effects in improving the overall symptoms and the percentage of clinical effectiveness. Nonetheless, despite stringent methodological analyses, these results need to be strengthened by additional RCTs of higher quality.
Yang C, Lv TT, Yu TY, Wong S, Lu MQ, Li YZ Full Article
2018, Apr 26
A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials: Skin-patch of Chinese herbal medicine for patients with acute gouty arthritis
Journal of Advanced Nursing
Based on the results of this meta-analysis, skin-patches of CHM combined with Western medicine seemed to more effectively relieve pain than Western medicine alone. Skin-patches of CHM had fewer side effects than Western medicine. They may be used as adjunct therapy to the conventional interventions to relieve pain. However, due to the generally low methodological quality and poor reporting of the included studies, our conclusions are necessarily cautious and must be confirmed by additional studies.
Wang HR, Fu Q, Liu Z, Li ML, Zhai SQ Full Article
2018, Feb 6
Chinese Herbal Medicine for Vascular Dementia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of High-Quality Randomized Controlled Trials
Journal of Alzheimer's Disease
The findings of the present study support, at least to an extent, that CHM can be recommended for routine use for treatment of VaD.
Xu, Qing-qing et al Full Article
2018, Jan
Chinese Herbal Medicine to Treat Allergic Rhinitis: Evidence From a Meta-Analysis
Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Research
This study suggests that CHM appears to improve the quality of life of AR patients. However, these findings, as well as the findings for the effect of CHM on sneezing, total nasal symptoms, and the symptom of itchy nose, need to be substantiated in larger cohorts of AR patients by further well-designed studies.
Zhang X, Lan F, Zhang Y, Zhang L Full Article
2017, Aug 20
A Review of Research on Acupuncture and Moxibustion Treatment for De Quervain’s Stenosing Tenosynovitis
The Acupuncture
Although the results of the studies to date provide evidence that acupuncture and moxibustion are effective treatments for De Quervain's Stenosing Tenosynovitis, the absence of a standard, objective evaluation tool, and a lack of reporting on the negative side-effects associated with treatment remain important factors that should be addressed in future studies.
Kong HJ, Kang JH, Yun GW, Oh SY, Lee H Full Article
2017, Mar 31
The Effect of Traditional Oriental Herbal Medicine for Anorexia in Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review
Journal of Korean Medicine
This review highlighted the significance of 11 RTCs in improving anorexia with chinese medicine in patients with cancer.
Lee JH, Bae K, Yoo HS Full Article
2017, Feb
Guasha improves the rating of perceived exertion scale score and reduces heart rate variability in male weightlifters: a randomized controlled trial
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine The China Association of Chinese Medicine & Chinese Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences
This article highlighted the efficacy of gua sha to facilitate the parasympathetic nervous activity and modulate the balance between parasympathetic and sympathetic activities in both the healthy men and the weightlifters.
Xingze W, Peijie C, Xingyu H, Yingying W, Jinsheng Y, Eungpinichpong W, Yuming Y, Chatchawan U Full Article
2016, Dec 29
Acupuncture for Functional Dyspepsia: What Strength Does It Have? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trial
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Based on current available evidence, acupuncture therapy achieves statistically significant effect for functional dyspepsia in comparison with sham acupuncture and is superior to medication (prokinetic agents) in improving the symptoms and quality of life of functional dyspepsia patients.
Bo Pang, Tao Jiang, Yuan-Hao Du, Jing Li, Bo Li, Ya-Cai Hu, Qiu-Han Ca Full Article
2016, Oct 31
A Review of Western and Traditional Chinese Medical Approaches to Managing Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Therefore, although there is evidence that certain TCM herbs and formulas have an effect on NAFLD, well-designed TCM clinical trials are warranted to better understand the efficacy and safety of TCM drugs as treatment for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
Wei-Fan Hsu, Lee-Yan Sheen, Hung-Jen Lin, Hen-Hong Chang Full Article
2016, Mar
Herbal medicine (Danggui Shaoyao San) for treating primary dysmenorrhea: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Maturitas European Menopause and Andropause Society
Our systematic review and meta-analysis provided suggestive evidence of the superiority of DSS over analgesics or placebo for dysmenorrhea. The quality of evidence for this finding was low to moderate because of a high risk of bias.
Hye Won Lee, Ji Hee Jun, Ki-Jung Kil, Byong-Seob Ko, Choong Hwan Lee, Myeong Soo Lee Full Article
2016, Mar 30
A Review Study on the Treatment of Eating Disorder in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Journal of Oriental Neuropsychiatry The Korean Society of Oriental Neuropsychiatry
The results of our study indicated that TCM clinical studies on eating disorder were being conducted more actively than in Korean medicine
Jo SH, Ahn YJ, Lee SH, Lim JH Full Article
2015, Nov
Practice of traditional Chinese medicine for psycho-behavioral intervention improves quality of life in cancer patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Oncotarget
The systematic review study showed the efficacy of Chinese Medicine in improving the quality of lives in cancer patients. The study highlighted patients to have reduced functional impairments, pain relief, depression remission, reduced time to flatulence following surgery and sleep improvement.
Tao W, Luo X, Cui B, Liang D, Wang C, Duan Y, Li X, Zhou S, Zhao M, Li Y, He Y, Wang S, Kelley KW, Jiang P, Liu Q. Full Article
2015, Jun 4
Chinese herbal medicine for treating recurrent urinary tract infections in women
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews Cochrane
Evidence from seven small studies suggested that CHM as an independent intervention or in conjunction with antibiotics may be beneficial for treating recurrent UTIs during the acute phase of infection and may reduce the recurrent UTI incidence for at least six months postâ€treatment. CHM treatments specifically formulated for recurrent UTI may be more effective than herbal treatments designed to treat acute UTI. However, the small number and poor quality of the included studies meant that it was not possible to formulate robust conclusions on the use of CHM for recurrent UTI in women either alone or as an adjunct to antibiotics.
Flower A, Wang LQ, Lewith G, Liu JP, Li Q. Full Article
2015, Apr
Acupuncture Therapy for Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
PLOS One Public Library of Science
This academic article showcased that the effect of manual acupuncture combined with Western medicine comprehensive treatment (WMCT) was better than WMCT alone
Zhang Xc, Xu Xp, Xu Wt, Hou Wz, Cheng Yy, et al. Full Article
2014, Nov 24
The Effect of Herbal Tea Containing Fennel Seed on Breast Milk Sufficiency Signs and Growth Parameters of Iranian Infants
Shiraz E-Medical Journal
This study showcased fennel tea improved breast milk sufficiency signs.
Ghasemi V, Kheirkhah M, Neisani Samani L, Vahedi M Full Article
2013, Dec
Patients with anorexia nervosa receiving acupuncture or acupressure; their view of the therapeutic encounter
Complementary Therapies in Medicine
This study highlighted that participants reported to have a strong therapeutic relationship developed between the practitioner and participants from the acupuncture or acupressure interventions
Fogarty S, Smith CA, Touyz S, Madden S, Buckett G, Hay P. Full Article
2012, Jul
Development of a Chinese Medicine Pattern Severity Index for Understanding Eating Disorders
The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Society for Acupuncture Research
This reported highlighted the efficacy of Chinese medicine pattern in evidence-based research
Sarah Fogarty, David Harris, Chris Zaslawski, Andrew J. McAinch, and Lily Stojanovska Full Article
2012, Jun 21
Traditional Chinese medicines benefit to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Molecular Biology Reports
Comparing with western medicines mentioned above, TCM had a better effect on the normalization of alanine aminotransferase and disappearance of radiological steatosis in the treatment of NAFLD. Furthermore, 246 kinds of Chinese herbs were included in our present study, with an average of 10 herbs (range 1–31) in each formulation. Hawthorn Fruit (321 times in 17,670 patients) was the most often used herb in the treatment of NAFLD. In conclusion, TCM is of modest benefit to the treatment of NAFLD.
Shi KQ, Fan YC, Liu WY, Li LF, Chen YP, Zheng MH Full Article
2001, Jan 22
Acupuncture for idiopathic headache
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews Cochrane
Overall, the existing evidence supports the value of acupuncture for the treatment of idiopathic headaches.
Melchart D, Linde K, Berman B, White A, Vickers A, Allais G, Brinkhaus B Full Article
