credit: JAMA network open (2023). DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.42482
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credit: JAMA network open (2023). DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.42482
Research suggests that acupuncture and massage can help relieve some of the pain felt by patients with advanced cancer, but no studies have compared the two treatments to each other. Now, in a multicenter, randomized clinical trial led by researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, both treatments not only reduce musculoskeletal pain, but also reduce fatigue, insomnia, and It was found that this also led to an improvement in the quality of life of people.
A study led by gastrointestinal oncologist Andrew Epstein, MD, and integrative medicine specialist Jun Mao, MD, MSc, showed the effects of weekly acupuncture and weekly massage for 10 weeks, and monthly “booster” sessions for up to 26 weeks. compared. The study enrolled about 300 patients with advanced cancer who had an average worst pain score of 7 out of 10.
Result is, JAMA network open.
During the study period, acupuncture reduced worst pain scores by an average of 2.5 points. Massage reduced worst pain scores by an average of 3 points, but the difference was not significant. Many patients also felt improvements in fatigue, sleep, and overall quality of life. The use of painkillers also decreased over time. Researchers say the focus should be on increasing awareness of the effectiveness of these approaches, as well as expanding the coverage of these treatments.
For more information:
Andrew S. Epstein et al., Acupuncture and Massage for Pain in Advanced Cancer Patients, JAMA network open (2023). DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.42482
Magazine information:
JAMA network open
