Acupuncture for managing chronic shoulder and lower back pain: a review of optimal frequency

Tsakonas E, Banks R
Record ID 32011001283
English
Authors' recommendations: There is significant variability in frequency of acupuncture therapy observed in different parts of the world. The reviewed guidelines do not provide a clear link between the evidence and theirrecommendations for duration of therapy, and they differ in their recommendations regarding appropriateness of acupuncture therapy and the frequency of therapy. One randomized trial of a single needling in LPB reported significant immediate improvement in pain with one session, although the duration of this benefit was not reported. A systematic review of studies in LBP and SP, combined with a meta-analysis of RCTs in these conditions, may be useful in assessing different treatment frequencies of acupuncture and their impacts on patient outcomes. Any such analysis should include studies from different countries if possible. When determining the frequency of acupuncture, each specific patient and the severity of LBP or SP should perhaps be considered.
Details
Project Status: Completed
Year Published: 2009
English language abstract: An English language summary is available
Publication Type: Not Assigned
Country: Canada
MeSH Terms
  • Low Back Pain
  • Shoulder Pain
Contact
Organisation Name: Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health
Contact Address: 600-865 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, ON K1S 5S8 Canada. Tel: +1 613 226 2553; Fax: +1 613 226 5392;
Contact Name: requests@cadth.ca
Contact Email: requests@cadth.ca
Copyright: Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH)
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