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Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of ear acupressure therapy on obstetric and gynecological (OBGY) pain in women through a systematic review and meta-analysis, providing foundational data on complementary and alternative therapies. Methods: Using the PICO-SD framework, searches were conducted across seven electronic databases: PubMed, Cochrane, EMBASE-OVID, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus, and RISS. The population (P) was women; the intervention (I) included ear acupressure, acupuncture, or auriculotherapy; the control (C) was usual obstetric care or placebo therapy; the outcome (O) was pain; and the study design (SD) was a randomized controlled trial (RCT). Study quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Revised Checklist for RCTs. Meta-regression and exclusion sensitivity analyses were also performed. Results: Sixteen studies were included, with a pooled overall effect size of Hedge’s g = −1.41 (95% confidence interval: −1.96 to −0.86). Meta- regression revealed that factors such as publication year, region, institutional review board approval, funding, sample size, type of pain, intervention type, tools, stimulus points, control group type, intervention duration, session count, session time, outcome measurement time, and quality assessment scores significantly influenced pain reduction. Conclusion: The findings confirm that ear acupressure therapy effectively reduces OBGY pain. However, given the variations in application methods and resulting differences in effectiveness, it is necessary to carefully consider factors such as tools, stimulus points, intervention methods, control group interventions, duration, session count, and session time when applying the therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This randomized controlled study aims to investigate the effect of acupressure on pain and postpartum comfort following a cesarean section. The study was conducted with 60 women who underwent cesarean delivery. The participants were randomly assigned to either the intervention or control group. In the intervention group, acupressure was applied to the LI4, SP6, and P6 points for 15 minutes at the 2nd and 4th hours after the cesarean section. In the control group, acupressure was not applied and only routine nursing care was given. Data was collected using a personal information form, Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and Postpartum Comfort Questionnaire (PCQ). Acupressure application was applied to the intervention group at the 2nd and 4th hour after cesarean section. All data collection forms were filled out by women in the intervention group before starting acupressure application at 2 hours after cesarean section. VAS was filled out again after acupressure application at 2 hours. VAS was filled out before and after acupressure application at 4 hours after cesarean section. PSQ was filled out in both groups before discharge. In the study, the intervention group's 2nd (3.03 ± 1.24, p <.001) and 4th (4.06 ± 1.22, p <.001) hour posttest VAS scores were lower and PCQ posttest scores (140.6 ± 9.01, p <.001) were higher than the control group. The results indicate that acupressure intervention applied to points LI4, SP6, and P6 was a useful nonpharmacological treatment for postpartum pain and comfort for the study group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coping with cancer presents a multitude of challenges that encompass every aspect of a patient's life. These challenges not only strain the body but also weigh heavily on the mind, often culminating in profound psychological distress for cancer patients. The cumulative burden of these experiences can heighten the risk of developing psychiatric disorders, exacerbating the already daunting landscape of cancer care. Therefore, this study reviewed the available research with the aim of investigating the effects of traditional Chinese medicine on psychological conditions in elderly cancer patients. In this scoping review, we applied specific criteria to select studies that focused on elderly patients with cancer. We performed an extensive search across electronic databases, including Embase, Science Direct, PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Cochrane Library and Web of Science. In our investigation, we identified a total of 3870 articles related to the topic under review. Following a meticulous screening process that involved evaluating titles, abstracts, and full texts, we ultimately selected five articles deemed relevant for inclusion in this review. Among these articles, three were randomised studies, while the remaining two were review articles. The outcomes of our analysis revealed that herbal decoctions, nutritional counselling, Tai Chi and acupressure, can effectively improve various psychological outcomes in elderly cancer patients. These interventions reduce fatigue, depression, anxiety, and stress, while also enhancing sleep quality and overall mental health. The present study highlights the importance of traditional Chinese medicine in addressing the needs of elderly patients with cancer. As a result, it is recommended that further extensive research be conducted to comprehensively assess the efficacy and safety of traditional Chinese medicine in managing cancer in the elderly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim: Effective pain management has become more difficult during the COVID-19 pandemic. The spiritual emotional freedom technique (SEFT) can be one of the efforts to overcome acute and chronic pain because SEFT is an intervention that can overcome physical problems by combining spiritual and psychological energy through sincerity of prayer and surrender. Aim of this study was to analyse the effect of SEFT on pain during the COVID-19 pandemic and the difference in the effect of SEFT on pre- and post-intervention pain. Methods: The research method was a quasi-experiment with a pre-posttest group design. The study was conducted by assessing the pain scale before and after using the numeric rating scale (NRS). The sample size in the study was 98 respondents. Inclusion criteria were: patients experiencing acute or chronic pain, composed consciousness, being able to communicate well enough and being consistent with the stages of intervention. Exclusion criteria were, unconsciousness, patients diagnosed with COVID-19, shortness of breath, cognitive impairment and hearing loss. Results: Pain measured by NRS in respondents for the pretest was 2.40 (1.679) and the post-test was 1.39 (0.490) with the interpretation of mild pain. Pretest and post-test on respondents showed significant pain reduction (Wilcoxon test, p = 0.0001; Mann Whitney test, p = 0.013). Conclusion: Respondents experienced less pain after SEFT than before the intervention. The impact of the pain scale on respondents was different before and after SEFT [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Racial and ethnic minority adolescents living in urban settings experience sleep disparities. Few interventions have been developed to address these disparities. Guided by principles of participatory design and inclusion, our team developed a novel intervention that combined sleep hygiene education with mind-body integrative health (MBIH) practices to improve sleep quality among adolescents in New York City. The goal of this article is to describe our iterative development and design process, the final product, and future directions. Our participatory approach incorporated information from formative work with adolescents having lived experience, practitioners, and syntheses of published literature. The final intervention—Sleeping Healthy, Living Healthy—consists of six, 40-minute group sessions and one 20-minute individual session designed for high school students. Each session has a set of learning objectives, combining instruction, group activities, and discussions on sleep hygiene and MBIH topics. Our manualized intervention includes handouts created by a graphic design team that served as a review and reminder for home practice. We describe intervention implementation to two unique cohorts and detail our methods used to fine-tune the intervention between cohorts. Our partnership with and insights from both adolescents and practitioners serve as a guide for researchers aiming to use participatory methods to develop interventions to decrease health disparities in specific populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate and rank the evidence for the efficacy of interventions in improving sleep quality after cardiac surgery using comprehensive comparisons. Clinical evidence suggests that over 80 % of adult cardiac surgery patients experience sleep disturbances during the first week postoperatively. While certain interventions have been shown to improve post-thoracic surgery sleep quality, a systematic description of the effects of these varied interventions is lacking. This systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, Embase, and CINAHL databases to collate all published randomized clinical trials as evidence. Two researchers independently extracted pertinent information from eligible trials and assessed the quality of included studies. Based on statistical heterogeneity, traditional meta-analysis using fixed or random-effects models was employed to assess the efficacy of interventions, and a Frequentist network meta-analysis using a consistency model was conducted to rank the effectiveness of intervention protocols. Our review incorporated 37 articles (n = 3569), encompassing 46 interventions, including 9 reports on pharmacological interventions (24.3 %), 28 on non-pharmacological interventions (75.7 %), and 5 on anesthetic management interventions (13.5 %). The analysis indicated the efficacy of Benson's relaxation technique, Progressive muscle relaxation, Education, Aromatherapy, Acupressure, Massage, and Eye masks in enhancing postoperative sleep quality. Specifically, Benson's relaxation technique (cumulative ranking curve area: 0.80; probability: 98.3 %) and Acupressure (cumulative ranking curve area: 0.96; probability: 58.3 %) were associated with the highest probability of successfully improving postoperative sleep quality, while Progressive muscle relaxation (cumulative ranking curve area: 0.70; probability: 35.2 %) and Eye masks (cumulative ranking curve area: 0.81; probability: 78.8 %) were considered secondary options. Eye masks and Massage significantly reduced postoperative sleep latency, with Eye masks (cumulative ranking curve area: 0.82; probability: 51.0 %) being most likely to enhance sleep quality postoperatively, followed by Massage (cumulative ranking curve area: 0.60; probability: 27.2 %). Education, Music, Massage, Eye masks, and Handholding were effective in alleviating pain intensity, with Education being most likely to successfully reduce postoperative pain (cumulative ranking curve area: 0.92; probability: 54.3 %), followed by Music (cumulative ranking curve area: 0.91; probability: 54 %). Conclusions : Our findings can be utilized to optimize strategies for managing post-thoracic surgery sleep disturbances and to develop evidence-based approaches for this purpose. Benson's relaxation technique, Progressive muscle relaxation, Education, Aromatherapy, Acupressure, Massage, and Eye masks significantly improve sleep quality in postoperative patients. disorders of initiating and maintaining sleep, sleep wake disorders, thoracic surgical procedures, cardiac surgical procedures, sleep quality, pain, network meta-analysis. • The investigations elucidate that an array of non-pharmacological interventions, notably Benson's Relaxation Technique, Progressive Muscle Relaxation, educational initiatives, aromatherapy, acupressure, therapeutic massage, and the application of eye masks, markedly enhance the quality of sleep postoperatively when contrasted with conventional care. These findings underscore the efficacy of integrative and holistic approaches in the amelioration of post-surgical sleep disturbances. • To enhance sleep quality in patients post-thoracic surgery and improve patient satisfaction with outcomes, further research is warranted based on our study findings to ensure the establishment of a systematic and effective treatment network for post-thoracic surgery sleep disturbances. • This study observed significant differences in the effectiveness of different interventions in improving sleep and reducing pain, and should personalize the use of drugs or non-drugs to guide medical teams in ways that better meet patient needs, and future research should continue to deepen the understanding of the effects of different treatments and explore more innovative clinical practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women, which reduces the quality of life and causes depression. The present study was conducted with aim to compare the effect of acupressure and aromatherapy on depression and quality of life of breast cancer patients. Methods: In this randomized clinical trial study, 96 women with breast cancer who visited the clinic or chemotherapy unit at Baqiyatullah and Shahid Chamran hospitals in Tehran were randomly assigned to three groups: aromatherapy, acupressure, and control. The data collection tool was the standard questionnaire for assessing the quality of life in breast cancer patients and Beck's depression questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software (version 21) and ANOVA and paired t-test. Results: In terms of quality of life, both in functional and symptomatic dimensions, the aromatherapy and acupressure groups had significantly better performance than the control group (p=0.003 and p<0.001, respectively). Additionally, both the aromatherapy and acupressure groups demonstrated a significant reduction in depression scores compared to the control group (p<0.001). Conclusion: Aromatherapy and acupressure significantly improve quality of life and reduce depression in patients with breast cancer. These interventions can be utilized as complementary methods in managing the physical and psychological symptoms of these patients. Further research with larger sample size is needed to confirm the long-term efficacy and explore the broader applicability of these approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Uterine contractions during delivery cause pain. Though it is a natural concern, this is one of the most common complaints from expectant women. The aim of this study was to investigated the relationship between acupressure and labor pain severity. Materials and methods: This study was experimental design with a pre-posttest control group. When labor entered the active phase, the treatment group began getting acupressure, whereas the control group was maintained under observation and given aromatherapy using frangipani until the cervical opening ended. Midwives in Bali undertook autonomous practices in the working regions of the Sukawati and Gianyar Health Centers from August to November 2020 and 44 respondents were included by systematic random sampling technique. Both univariate and bivariate data analysis methods were applied at a 95% significance level. Results: Study found there was no difference in the degree of labor pain before receiving acupressure or aromatherapy with frangipani (p=0.185). Acupressure and aromatherapy of frangipani have an impact on pain intensity in the groups receiving them, although statistically, acupressure is more significant. Values of p = 0.000 and 0.029 respectively follow acupressure and frangipani aromatherapy. Conclusion: The intensity of labor pain during the initial active phase is decrease by acupressure. Acupressure is best applied by those who are trained. The recommendation should be having the midwives trained accordingly to know how to use acupressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psychoactive drugs have anticholinergic effects, which might cause constipation; however, probiotics and traditional Chinese medicine can resolve constipation. This study aimed to examine the effect of probiotics combined with traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture point massage, and acupuncture point application on patients with intestinal solid heat constipation. We enrolled 200 patients, randomly divided into three intervention groups and a control group. Group 1 received probiotics combined with acupressure point massage and acupuncture point application; Group 2 received probiotics combined with acupressure point massage; Group 3 received probiotics combined with acupuncture point application, while the control group received routine treatment only. After intervention, the total effective rate of the intervention groups was higher than that of the control group (52%). The constipation symptom score in the intervention groups was lower than that in the control group, and the symptom score, defecation characteristics, and defecation time of group 1 were significantly lower than those of groups 2 and 3. The Bristol defecation trait, difficulty, time, and interval were better in the intervention groups than in the control group. Combining probiotics with traditional Chinese medicine, acupressure massage, and acupuncture point application can resolve intestinal solid heat constipation caused by psychoactive drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, nurses reported varying degrees of cognitive failure. To prioritize patient safety in clinical settings, it is important and necessary to address and mitigate the symptoms of cognitive failure among nurses. Aim: This study was conducted in Iran to evaluate the impact of ear acupressure on occupational cognitive failure in nurses. Methods: This randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted with 54 nurses who experienced cognitive failure in 2022. Sampling was performed by convenience. Fifty-six nurses who scored 40 or higher on the occupational cognitive failure questionnaire were randomly assigned to either the intervention group (28 subjects) or the sham group (28 subjects). In the intervention group, pressure was applied to the shen-men point, zero point, hippocampus, master cerebral, brain, and memory 1 and 2 of the earlobes for six weeks using Vaccaria seeds. In the sham group, a sticker without seeds was applied at the same points as in the intervention group, and no pressure was applied. Cognitive failure was assessed at the beginning of the study (T0), at the end of the intervention (sixth week of study, T1), and four weeks after the end of the intervention (tenth week of study, T2). The data were collected using contextual data questionnaires and the Occupational Cognitive Failure Questionnaire (OCFQ). The data obtained from 54 nurses (28 in the sham group and 26 in the intervention group) were analyzed by SPSS v16 using repeated-measures ANOVA. Results: The two groups had no significant differences regarding background variables. The between-group analysis revealed a significant interaction effect of time and intervention on cognitive failure (F = 60.320, p < 0.001, effect size = 0.537). The cognitive failure score in the intervention group was significantly lower at the end of the intervention and one month later than that in the sham group (p < 0.001). Within-group analysis revealed a significant difference in the cognitive failure scores of the intervention group at T0, T1, and T2 (61.231 ± 14.230, 34.000 ± 14.659, and 29.808 ± 14.266, respectively; F = 52.331, p < 0.001, effect size = 0.677). However, in the sham group, the cognitive failure score exhibited a brief but significant increase at T0, T1, and T2 (54.786 ± 11.239, 56.250 ± 10.950, and 56.000 ± 11.337, respectively; F = 6.369, p = 0.006, effect size = 0.191). Conclusion: Auriculotherapy has shown promise in improving occupational cognitive failure in nurses. It is recommended that nurses consider incorporating auriculotherapy as a complementary treatment modality, particularly through self-treatment programs, when experiencing symptoms of cognitive impairment. Trial Registration Number (TRN): IRCT20100211003329N10 Date of registration: 04/11/2022 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Prediabetes and obesity in women are important health problems today. Appropriate selfmanagement and other methods are needed to overcome this. Objective: To assess the magnitude of the difference in changes in fasting blood glucose levels, before and after carrying out ADCES7 self-care behavior and acupressure. Method: This research is quasi-experimental research. The research design used was the Non-Randomized Pre Test - Post Test Control Group, which gathered obese, prediabetic women in the Kalumata Community Health Center, Siko Community Health Center and Posbindu under the PKK Ternate City through screening by excluding those who had suffered from diabetes mellitus and were pregnant. This group was then divided into the ADCES7 self care behavior intervention group, the acupressure group and the combined ADCES7 self care behavior and acupressure group. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess changes in fasting blood glucose levels. Results: Respondents in this study were 102 people who were divided into three groups. The results showed that there was an effect of Self Management intervention p(0.016)<0.05, acupressure intervention p(0.032)<0.05, and the combination group of Self Management and Acupressure p(0.011)<0.05 on changes in fasting blood glucose levels in prediabetic obese women. Conclusion: obese prediabetic women who are aware and active in self-management ACDES7 self care behavior and acupressure can reduce blood glucose levels and body weight in obese prediabetic women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the joint guidelines developed by the Society for Integrative Oncology (SIO) and the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) regarding the use of integrative therapies to manage cancer-related symptoms. It provides evidence-based recommendations for complementary therapies, including acupuncture, mindfulness-based interventions, yoga, and t'ai chi, aimed at alleviating pain, anxiety, depression, and fatigue associated with cancer treatment.

Background: Normal labor is stressful, and the intense pain and anxiety can have an adverse effect on the mother, the fetus, and the delivery procedure. This study aimed to determine how acupressure applied to multiple acupoints during normal labor affected labor pain and anxiety in primiparous women. Method: This study was a double-blinded randomized controlled trial that involved 43 primiparous women aging 20–30 years who were referred for normal labor. Subjects were randomly allocated to one of two groups: acupressure or control. Acupressure was administered to the Large Intestine 4 (LI4), Heart 7 (He-7), and Spleen 6 (SP6) acupoints in the acupressure group, whereas sham acupressure was administered to the control group. The study assessed the mothers' anxiety levels using the Spielberger Inventory questionnaire and measured their pain levels using the visual analog scale before and after the intervention. In addition, pulse rate and blood pressure were also measured. Result: In the acupressure group, both the anxiety score and pain level showed a substantial improvement (p < 0.001), but in the control group, only the anxiety score showed a significant improvement (p < 0.001). After the intervention, the difference in anxiety and pain scores between the two groups is statistically significant (p < 0.001). Furthermore, neither group's blood pressure nor pulse rate showed any significant changes (p < 0.05). Conclusion: According to the study's findings, acupressure targeting LI4, He-7, and SP6 acupoints was effective in relieving anxiety and pain during labor. Compared with the sham acupressure group, the acupressure group showed a greater decrease in both anxiety and pain levels. As such, acupressure may be recommended as an effective, affordable, and accessible technique for managing pain and anxiety during labor. This study has been registered in the database of clinical trials under the identifier Clinicaltrials.gov NCT05411289. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of shiatsu back massage on chemo-radiation-induced Pain Among elderly women with cervical cancer. 60 elderly women, ages varying from 60 years and above, with cervical cancer were selected randomly at Government Thoothukudi Medical College Hospital (T.N.). Elderly women with cervical cancer were divided into two groups-experimental (N=30), and control (30), by lottery method. The pretest level of chemo-radiationinduced pain was assessed by using the numerical pain scale in both groups was perceived as severe. A Shiatsu back massage of 10 minutes per day for 4 weeks was given to the experimental group. The control and experimental groups'post-test mean difference was 1.63. This difference is large and significant. It was tested using student independent t-test. In the Experimental group the Mann-Whitney U- test t= 9.52 which was highly significant at P < 0.001 level. There was no significant association between pre and post-test levels of Chemo-radiation-induced Pain with selected demographic variables. Elderly women with cervical cancer who had undergone shiatsu back massage had a statistically significant in reducing Chemo-radiation pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Backgroun d. Constipation is a common distressing problem in patients with schizophrenia that can cause complications and impair quality of life. Objective. The objective of this study was to investigate the efficacy of applying auricular acupressure (AA) treatment in improving constipation in patients with schizophrenia. Metho ds. A crossover randomized controlled trial design was performed from April 2022 to December 2023 at four psychiatric rehabilitation care centers. A total of 23 patients with schizophrenia received an AA intervention or usual care according to the designated treatment sequences. Measurements comprised subjective assessment of constipation by the Patient Assessment of Constipation-Symptoms (PAC-SYM) questionnaire, an objective assessment of the stool pattern rated by a Bristol stool form scale, and heart rate variability. A generalized estimating equation model was used for data analyses. Result s. After completing an 8-week AA intervention stimulating the Shenmen, San Jiao, Large intestine and Rectum, the AA group exhibited lower scores in the PAC-SYM total score (difference = −12.66, , 0.001), and the subscales: abdominal (difference = −3.36, p <.001), rectal (difference = −3.51, p <.001), and stool (difference = −5.79, p <.001), compared to those receiving usual care. The cases of constipation indicated by type 1 and type 2 of the BSF scale significantly decreased after the 8-week AA intervention. Moreover, the AA group displayed more parasympathetic dominance compared to the usual care group, with a low frequency to high frequency ratio of −1.15. Conclusion. AA is an effective non-pharmacological method for improving subjective constipation symptoms and objective stool pattern in patients with schizophrenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate the advantages of adding acupuncture to standard postoperative pain management for open radical prostatectomy (RP). Materials and methods: A randomized controlled trial (1:1:1) comparing routine postoperative analgesic care (control [CON]) vs the addition of press tack needle acupuncture (ACU) or press tack placebo acupressure (SHAM) for pain management after open RP was performed. A total of 126 patients were enrolled between February 2020 and April 2021. After open RP, the CON group received standard postoperative analgesia, the ACU group received long‐term acupuncture with press tacks at specific points (P‐6, Shenmen and SP‐6) along with standard analgesia, and the SHAM group received placebo press tacks at the same acupuncture points alongside standard analgesia. The primary endpoint was postoperative pain measured on a numeric rating scale, the NRS‐11, calculated as the area under the curve. The cumulative use of routine postoperative analgesics, time to first defaecation, and quality of life were analysed using the Kruskal–Wallis rank sum test, Fisher's exact test, and Pearson's chi‐squared test. Results: The ACU group reported significantly less postoperative pain compared to the SHAM (P = 0.007) and CON groups (P = 0.02). There were no significant difference in median (interquartile range) cumulative pain medication usage, time to first defaecation (CON: 37 [33, 44] h; SHAM: 37 [33, 42] h; ACU: 37 [33, 41] h; P > 0.9), or health status at discharge (EuroQol five‐dimension, five‐level general health assessment questionnaire: CON: 70 [65–83]; SHAM: 70 [60–80]; ACU: 70 [50–80]). Conclusion: Incorporating acupuncture into postoperative pain management can improve patient postoperative outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To systematically evaluate the efficacy of auricular acupressure on lung function, sleep quality and quality of life in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients. Background: Auricular acupressure has been increasingly used in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients, such as lung function and sleep quality, but the efficacy has not yet been unified. Design: A meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials. Methods: Randomised controlled trials comparing auricular acupressure intervention with non‐auricular acupressure intervention in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients were included. We searched English databases and Chinese databases from the inception to 26 December 2022. The risk of bias was assessed by the Cochrane risk of bias tool. The PRISMA statement was used to report a meta‐analysis. Results: A total of 12 randomised controlled trials with 987 chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients were included. The meta‐analysis showed that auricular acupressure had significant differences in improving lung function, including FEV1 (MD = 0.29, 95% CI: 0.21 to 0.37, p <.0001), FVC (MD = 0.24, 95% CI: 0.14 to 0.34, p <.0001) and FEV1/FVC (MD = 4.70, 95% CI: 3.63 to 5.78, p <.0001). There was also a positive effect on sleep quality (MD = −0.71, 95% CI: −0.89 to −0.53, p <.0001) and quality of life (MD = −3.20, 95% CI: −3.92 to −2.49, p <.0001). Conclusions: The results indicated auricular acupressure had a positive efficacy in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients to improve lung function, sleep quality and quality of life, but these results should be treated with caution due to the low quality of included studies. Future researchers need to conduct more high‐quality randomised controlled trials to provide a solid basis to demonstrate the efficacy of auricular acupressure in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients. Relevant to Clinical Practice: Auricular acupressure has the advantages of being non‐invasive, convenient and without significant side effects. This review suggested auricular acupressure could be considered a non‐pharmacological intervention for patients. Clinical nurses can teach chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients to perform auricular acupressure to help self‐manage complications. Patient or Public Contribution: No Patient or Public Contribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fatigue, a major health concern among patients receiving hemodialysis, is associatedwith poor quality of life, negative emotions, and cognitive dysfunction. Acupressure is a lowcost and noninvasive traditional Chinese therapy that has been widely used in community and clinic settings. However, the beneficial effects of acupressure on various aspects of fatigue among these patients have not been systematically investigated. Purpose: This study was designed to determine the effects of acupressure on fatigue in patients receiving hemodialysis. The moderating influences of bio-sociodemographic characteristics and methodology on the association between acupressure and posthemodialysis fatigue were also examined. Methods: Four electronic databases were searched for qualified articles published between database inception and November 2, 2022. Only randomized controlled trials designed to investigate the effects of acupressure on fatigue in patients receiving hemodialysis were qualified for consideration. A random-effects model was used for data analysis. Results: Eight randomized controlled trials with 11 effect sizes and 725 participants were included in this study. In these studies, acupressure was found to have a significantly higher alleviation effect on general fatigue (g = -0.78; 95% confidence interval [-1.09, -0.48]) and the behavioral, emotional, sensory, and cognitive domains of fatigue (g = -0.51, -0.51, -0.72, and -0.41, respectively) among patients receiving hemodialysis than those in the control groups. Furthermore, the stimulation of the Shenmen acupoint was found to increase the effects ( p < .01) of acupressure on fatigue reduction significantly. Notably, the use of special equipment to perform the acupressure was not found to significantly improve outcomes ( p = .99). Conclusions/Implications for Practice: Acupressure is effective in alleviating fatigue in patients receiving hemodialysis, particularly when the Shenmen acupoint is used together with other acupoints, and is effective without the application of special equipment. Acupressuremay be adopted as a complementary therapy for fatigue alleviation in patients receiving hemodialysis. Based on the findings, healthcare providers should coach patients receiving hemodialysis with fatigue on how to use acupressure therapy appropriately to alleviate this health concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims Background Introduction Methods Results Discussion Conclusion Implication for nursing The aim of this study is to test whether acupressure for patients with fatigue is an efficient nursing intervention and if it can be implemented into the European nursing care pathways (ENP) nursing classification system.Previously, interventions for acupressure were included nonspecifically in ENP and therefore were not available for standardized nursing documentation in an electronic health record (EHR).Acupressure is a nursing intervention that is increasingly used in specific settings. ENP is a nursing classification system that provides evidence‐based nursing interventions for nursing diagnoses.A systematic international literature search was conducted from May 2021 to December 2021. An iterative, hierarchical search process according to the 6S evidence pyramid was chosen. The results were reported following the PRISMA statement.Findings of 49 included publications that studied a total of 1,716 patients indicate that certain acupressure points may be efficient in treating fatigue.Acupressure is a useful nursing intervention and can really help patients experiencing fatigue. It is illustrated how the findings have been implemented in the development of ENP nursing interventions to document acupressure.The acupressure points most frequently used on the ear with positive effects in improving fatigue are Shen Men, liver, spleen, subcortex, endocrine, heart, and sympathetic, while the most common points on the body are ST 36, SP 6, LI 4, HT 7, KID 1, Ex‐HN 3, Ex‐HN, and KID 3.In the future, nurses will be able to use ENP to quickly and easily document acupressure interventions for fatigue in the EHR.In the EHR, the documentation of the nursing process with ENP could help to promote research into evidence‐based approaches to fatigue by generating mass data on the different concepts of acupressure, which could lead to a clearer determination of the evidence and contribute to the safety of care and patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to conduct a scoping review to determine the nature, variety, and volume of empirical evidence on nonpharmacological interventions for sleep disturbances with potential implications for fatigue in adults sustaining a traumatic brain injury (TBI). A systematic literature search was conducted across four databases to identify primary studies testing a single non-pharmacological intervention or a combination of non-pharmacological interventions for sleep disturbances and fatigue in community-dwelling adults with TBI. Sixteen studies were reviewed addressing six non-pharmacological interventions for sleep disruptions and fatigue after TBI including light therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, warm footbath application, shiatsu, and sleep hygiene protocol. Non-pharmacological interventions involving light or cognitive-behavioral therapy were reported in 75% of the studies. Actigraphy-based estimation of total sleep time and subjective level of fatigue were frequent outcomes. While this scoping review has utility in describing existing non-pharmacological approaches to manage sleep and fatigue after TBI, the findings suggest that interventions are often developed without considering TBI individuals' source of motivation and the need for support in self-administration. Future studies may achieve greater sustainability by considering the evolving needs of TBI patients and their families and the drivers and barriers that might influence non-pharmacological intervention use at home. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder that causes neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy causes severe pain and needs therapy to relieve its pain. In Indonesia, the therapy uses paracetamol, sometimes combined with acupressure. However, the efficacy of the combination therapy needs to be better understood. Purpose: This study aimed to elucidate the efficacy of paracetamol vs paracetamol combined with acupressure for pain relief in diabetic neuropathy patients. Materials and methods: This study used a cross-sectional study design. Total of 70 participants were agreed to involved in this study. The patients were then interviewed, and their visual analogue scale was assessed. The data was then analysed statistically using Pearson's correlation. Result: Out of the 70 patients diagnosed with type II DM, 40 had Diabetic Neuropathic Pain (DNP). Shockingly, most of the patients with type II DM and DNP were females, accounting for 33 out of 40 cases (82.50%). The study found a significant correlation between the type of therapy and the decrease in VAS scores for diabetic patients with neuropathic pain (p=0.05). Patients treated with paracetamol and acupressure showed more improvement in the VAS score than those treated with only paracetamol. Conclusion: The study suggests that the combination treatment could benefit DNP as an analgesic for type II DM patients. Advanced study is required to be performed using larger samples so that accurate data can be obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of acupressure on nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. Methods: PubMed, Embase, Springer, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were searched for all randomized controlled trials (RCT) of treating nausea and vomiting during pregnancy by acupressure from the inception date of database to July 31st, 2023. Study selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment were conducted independently by researchers. The methodological quality of included studies was evaluated by the Cochrane Collaboration's bias risk assessment tool, meta-analysis by Stata 17.0 software, and publication bias by Begg's test. Results: A total of 11 RCTs involving 1378 pregnant women were included in this review, which was assessed to be moderate quality. 10 RCTs involving 1298 pregnant women were assessed for the meta-analysis. The results revealed that acupressure showed significant difference on improvement in symptom score compared with sham acupressure (pooled MD, − 1.33; 95%CI [− 2.06, − 0.61]; P < 0.001) or control group (pooled MD, − 0.73; 95%CI [− 1.08, − 0.39]; P < 0.001), and incidence of effective rate compared with sham acupressure group (pooled RR, 1.78; 95%CI [1.03, 3.07]; P = 0.039). However, no statistical significance was found between acupressure and control group (pooled RR, 4.53; 95%CI [0.67, 30.48]; P = 0.120) on effective rate. On comparing acupressure with sham acupressure, there was no beneficial effect on preventing nausea and vomiting during pregnancy (pooled RR, 0.83; 95%CI [0.50, 1.38]; P = 0.476), shortening the duration of hospital stay (pooled MD, − 0.78; 95%CI [− 1.98, 0.41]; P = 0.199) and improving patient satisfaction (pooled RR, 1.36; 95%CI [0.47, 3.91]; P = 0.570). Begg's test did not reveal any publication bias. Only one RCT reported minimal acupressure-related adverse events. Conclusion: Acupressure may have potential favorable or encouraging effect on treating nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, but strong supportive data are not yet available. Well-designed and large-scale RCTs should be conducted for assessing and confirming the efficacy and safety of acupressure in nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION Acupuncture and related acupoint therapies have been widely used for smoking cessation. Some relevant systematic reviews (SRs) have been published. There is a need to summarize and update the evidence to inform practice and decision-making. METHODS Eight databases were searched from their inception to December 2023. SRs, any randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing acupuncture therapies with sham acupuncture, pharmacotherapy, behavioral therapy, or no treatment, were included. The primary outcome was the abstinence rate. AMSTAR-2 was employed to assess the quality of SRs. An updated meta-analysis was conducted based on SRs and RCTs. Data were synthesized using risk ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The GRADE approach was employed to assess the certainty of the updated evidence. RESULTS Thirteen SRs and 20 RCTs outside of the SRs were identified. The SRs were of low or very low quality by AMSTAR-2. Sixteen (80%) RCTs were at high risk of performance bias. Eight acupuncture and related acupoint therapies were involved. The short-term (≤6 months) abstinence rate outcome was summarized as follows. Most SRs suggested that filiform needle acupuncture or acupressure had a better effect than sham acupuncture, but the findings were inconsistent. The updated meta-analysis also suggested that filiform needle acupuncture was more effective than sham acupuncture (RR=1.44; 95% CI: 1.02-2.02; I2 = 66%; low certainty; 9 RCTs, n=1358). Filiform needle acupuncture combined with acupressure was comparable to nicotine patches (RR=0.99; 95% CI: 0.74-1.32; low certainty; 6 RCTs, n= 524). Acupressure was superior to counseling (RR=1.46; 95% CI: 1.14-1.87; I2=5%; low certainty; 8 RCTs, n=595). No serious adverse events were reported in these SRs or RCTs. CONCLUSIONS Low certainty evidence suggests that filiform needle acupuncture and auricular acupressure appear to be safe and effective in achieving short-term smoking cessation. However, long-term follow-up data are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy (NVP) are not only considered to be a sign of discomfort both culturally and clinically but also seen as potential safety risks for mothers and their unborn children. One of the non-pharmacological complementary therapies was the use of acupressure. The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness, safety, and satisfaction of the dual method of P6 acupressure as an intervention in affected pregnant women to reduce NVP and explore the method P6 acupressure perception as the intervention of choice in the treatment of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. MATERIALS AND METHOD: A mixed-methods sequential explanatory study was conducted which consisted of two phases: quantitative followed by qualitative. The first phase involved the recruitment of 120 pregnant women with moderate to severe NVP symptoms. Six participants were in the intervention group qualitative phase. RESULTS: The Pregnancy-Unique Quantification of Emesis (PUQE) scores of participants in the intervention group were lower compared to that of the control group after the intervention period (p=<0.01). The PUQE score was found to be reduced in the intervention group of having severe into having mild symptoms. There were no adverse effects reported after the intervention. Majority of the participants were satisfied after using the dual P6 acupressure method (Z=1830, p<0.01). Meanwhile, during the qualitative phase, six themes emerged. CONCLUSION: A dual method of P6 acupressure therapy could be effective, safe, and satisfactory in relieving NVP. Therefore, maternity care providers may consider using this method as a therapeutic alternative for the management of NVP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background • In cesarean delivery, factors such as general anesthesia affect bowel function, leading postpartum women to experience abdominal tenderness, gas, and constipation. Objective • This study aims to assess the impact of acupressure on bowel function after cesarean delivery. Design • A randomized-controlled experimental study was conducted. Participants • The study population comprised postpartum women who underwent cesarean delivery at Ondokuz Mayıs University Health Practice and Research Hospital between July 2021 and January 2022. The sample consisted of 61 postpartum women (acupressure group: 31, control group: 30). Intervention • Participants were divided into two groups: the acupressure group and the control group. Women in the acupressure group received 14 minutes of acupressure application to the LI4 and TH6 points twice, once within the first postoperative hour and again three hours later. The control group received no acupressure intervention. Outcome Measures • Data were collected using a Postpartum Information Form and a Post-cesarean Follow-up Form. Statistical analyses included the Mann-Whitney U test, Student’s t test, and chi-squared analysis. Results • The mean age of postpartum women in the acupressure group was 27.61±4.39, while in the control group, it was 28.50±3.85. The mean times for bowel sounds, flatulence, and bowel movements in the acupressure group (9.98±2.77, 19.43±10.25, and 27.13±10.77 hours, respectively) were significantly shorter than those in the control group (14.41±5.07, 23.33±4.20, and 46.16±17.95 hours, respectively) (P < .05). Conclusions • Acupressure was found to be effective in improving bowel function after cesarean delivery, significantly reducing the time taken for participants to experience bowel sounds, flatulence, and bowel movements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study conducted in Indonesia on the effectiveness of progressive muscle relaxation and acupressure therapy in reducing back pain in pregnant women during the third trimester. The study found that both interventions were effective, but progressive muscle relaxation therapy was more effective. Pregnant women can perform progressive muscle relaxation themselves when experiencing back pain. The article also provides background information on the physiological changes and discomforts experienced by pregnant women and highlights the prevalence and impact of back pain during pregnancy. Additionally, the document is a list of references to various research articles on topics related to women's health, pregnancy, and pain management, providing valuable insights from researchers around the world. [Extracted from the article]

Burns often cause severe pain, especially during dressing changes. This study aimed to investigate the effect of acupressure on pain during dressing changes in burn patients. This randomized clinical trial was conducted on 76 burn patients. The eligible patients were randomly assigned to the intervention and control groups after obtaining informed consent. Eligible patients were randomly assigned to the intervention and control groups by blocking. The study was conducted over two days using the same method. Before entering the dressing room, acupressure was performed in the intervention group for 10 min in acupressure points and the control group in other points. Pain intensity was measured in two groups 30 min before entering the dressing room and 15 and 30 min after leaving the dressing room using VAS. Finally, the data were analyzed using SPSS software 25th edition. Pain scores were similar for the two groups before the dressing change. The results of this study revealed a significant decrease in the patient's pain intensity mean in the test group following acupressure compared to the control group on day one which remained on day two (P < 0.05). Considering the experience of severe pain in burn patients, acupressure is recommended as a complementary method along with modern medicine to reduce these patients' pains. • Pain is one of the common problems in burn patients. • Acupressure is a feasible, useful and safe adjunctive modality for managing patients' pain after burn dressing changes. • Acupressure as a complementary therapy can reduce pain in burn patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background • Most post-COVID-19 patients had physiological health problems, which differed for each patient. The potential treatment for post-COVID-19 syndrome must require multi-disciplinary approaches that focus on individualized treatment. Therefore, traditional Thai Medicine (TTM) clinical practice guidelines for post-COVID-19 treatment are developed by the Traditional Thai Medicine Hospital, Prince of Songkla University, to care for post-COVID-19 patients. Objective • This current study aimed to investigate the effect of the guidelines on post-COVID-19 patient’s physical health. Methods • This research was a retrospective clinical study, carried out from June 2022 to July 2022. Setting • The study was conducted at the Traditional Thai Medicine Hospital, Prince of Songkla University, and La Flora Khao Lak TTM clinic, Thailand. Participants • Data (n=17) were collected from the medical record. They were included if they met the following criteria: patients were more than 18 years old, had a medical history of COVID-19 disease, had fully recovered from the disease (ATK for COVID-19 is negative) at least a week before starting the guideline, and had complete medical information such as post-COVID-19 symptoms, vital signs, pain score, cough severity score, and quality of life examination. Intervention • Approaches for post-COVID-19 treatment included herbal Thai medicine recipes, Thai massage, herbal steam inhalation, herbal hot steam, herbal hot water immersion, acupressure massage for breathing stimulation, and a breathing exercise. All procedures were applied for 7 days continually or until they have recovered. Primary Outcome Measures • The effects of TTM approaches on the symptoms of post-COVID-19 patients on pain score, quality of life, cough severity were measured using a visual analog score (VAS), SF-36 questionnaire, and cough severity index (CSI), respectively. Results • The average duration time of post-COVID-19 syndrome was 25.76 days, and the most common symptom was muscle pain/stress (10; 71.43%). Yahom-Navakot (6; 42.86%) is the most common recipe used for the treatment. Interestingly, the pain score was significantly reduced by 3 days of the treatment (4.88±2.03 vs 2.29±2.08 ). Moreover, the cough severity index (12.86±11.55 vs 3.31±6.38) was significantly lessened by 7 days of the treatment. Remarkably, most symptoms vanished entirely after 7 days of the intervention, leading to a better quality of life for the patients (53.24±22.15 vs 65.59±23.64). Conclusions • The TTM clinical practice guideline for treating postCOVID-19 syndrome effectively improved the overall physical health capacity and symptoms associated with post-COVID-19 syndrome. Therefore, the implementation of this guideline, together with other approaches, could strengthen the treatment for post-COVID-19 to be more effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context • Labor pain is considered one of the most wellknown types of severe pain. For this reason, nonpharmacological methods employed for managing labor pain are necessary to help pregnant women cope with labor pain and increase their childbirth comfort. Objectives • The aim of this study was to determine the effect of cold and warm acupressure applied to the LI4 acupressure point on childbirth comfort in primiparous women during labor. Design • This study was designed as a randomized controlled experimental trial. Setting • The study was conducted between August 2020 and March 2021 at 2 hospitals in northern Turkey offering similar maternity services. Participants • The sample consisted of 129 healthy pregnant women: 44 in the warm acupressure group, 44 in the cold acupressure group and 41 in the control group. Intervention • Participants were randomly assigned to one of the three groups. The researcher applied cold or warm acupressure pouches, respectively, on the women in the 2 experimental groups on the LI4 acupressure point for 10 minutes during the active and transition phases of labor. The application was suspended for 1 hour, and then repeated 3 more times. No acupressure was administered in the control group. Outcome Measures • The Personal Information Form (PIF), Labor Monitoring Form (LMF), Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Childbirth Comfort Questionnaire (CCQ) were used to gather study data. Results • There was a statistically significant difference between both the intergroup and intra-group pain scores in the experimental and control groups (P < .05) and childbirth comfort scores in the experimental and control groups in terms of groups and timing (P < .05). Conclusion • In this study, both warm and cold acupressure were found to alleviate labor pain. The warm acupressure, in particular, had a more positive effect on childbirth comfort. Thus, warm and cold acupressure can be recommended to relieve labor pain and increase childbirth comfort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acupressure mats are promoted as stress management tools for easy and effective self‐application, promising reduced stress and increased well‐being. However, the scientific evidence for these effects is based on few experimental studies and lacks the examination of acupressure mats as a solitary relaxation tool. Our study aimed to examine which changes in stress and well‐being can be expected from the use of acupressure mats by healthy young people on the subjective and psychophysiological level. Unexperienced participants practiced relaxation for three weeks either with an acupressure mat or without any tools (active control group [CG]). As a results, subjective well‐being and stress decreased, while sleep quality and concentration endurance increased across groups. Blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), pain threshold and pain tolerance did not change significantly from pre‐ to post‐training measurements. Most importantly, no significant differences were found between groups, indicating that training with an acupressure mat yielded no superior effects compared with an active control condition in healthy young students. As a conclusion, taking time to relax has some but limited beneficial effects on the subjective levels independent of the specific method for healthy students. Potential beneficial effects of acupressure mats might be bound to specific impairments, such as tension pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of acupuncture and acupressure of acupoints on tendon blood circulation with those of both types of stimulation of tendon itself. Methods: Before, during (except for acupressure), and after acupuncture and acupressure of the tendon and acupoint, blood circulation of the Achilles tendon was measured using red laser lights. Results: The blood volume of the treated and non-treated tendons increased after acupuncture of the tendon (effect of time p = 0.030), whereas that tended to increase after acupuncture of the acupoint (effect of time p = 0.063). In addition, no significant difference in the increases in blood volume was found among the four conditions, i.e., after acupuncture stimulation of the tendon and acupoint for the treated and non-treated tendons (p = 0.492). The blood volume of the treated tendon significantly increased after acupressure of the tendon (effect of time p < 0.001), but not of the acupoint (effect of time p = 0.260), whereas that of the non-treated tendon did not change after acupressure of both the tendon and acupoint. Conclusion: These results suggested that acupuncture of the tendon and acupoint acted centrally to enhance blood circulation of both the treated and non-treated tendons during the recovery period, whereas acupressure of the tendon locally increased blood circulation of the treated tendon only, but not the non-treated tendon and both the treated and non-treated tendons after acupressure of acupoint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Endothelial function may improve with enhanced external counterpulsation (EECP) or acupuncture. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of acupoint stimulation combined with EECP (acupoint-EECP) for endothelial cell function in patients with essential hypertension. Methods: Thirty essential hypertensive patients were, randomly divided into two groups, with 15 patients in the acupoint-EECP group, and 15 patients in the control group, of which 3 cases were lost by week 6. Both groups were treated with continued medicine. The participants in the acupoint-EECP group received acupoint stimulation combined with EECP therapy, 45 min for each time, 5 times weekly for 6 weeks for a total of 22.5 hours. The selected acupoints are Zusanli (ST36), Fenglong (ST40) and Sanyinjiao (SP6). The curative effects of the two groups were compared. Results: The acupoint-EECP group (n=15) showed significant improvement in endothelial function [nitric oxide (NO), endothelin-1 (ET-1) and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cf-PWV), respectively] values compared to the control group (n=12). Multiple imputation (n = 20 imputations) was performed to account for potential bias due to missing data. In stratified analyses, SBP and DBP values decreased when the baseline SBP was =120 mmHg and DBP was =80 mmHg. Conclusions: These findings suggest the feasibility of acupoint-EECP in improving endothelial function and treating hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is a common occurrence, affecting approximately 70-80% of patients who have undergone surgery, particularly those with multiple risk factors. The aim of our study was to compare the effectiveness of palonosetron as monotherapy versus a combination of ondansetron with dexamethasone and acupressure P6 wristband in preventing PONV and reducing the need for rescue anti-emetics after laparoscopic surgery. Methodology: A randomized controlled trial involving a total of 90 ASA I and II patients with APFEL scores ≥ 2 was conducted. These patients were recruited and randomly assigned to either the monotherapy or the combination therapy group. In the monotherapy group, patients received intravenous (IV) palonosetron 0.075 mg immediately after induction of anesthesia. In the combination therapy group, patients received dexamethasone 8 mg IV and an acupressure P6 wristband immediately after induction. Subsequently, ondansetron 4 mg IV was administered, and the wristband was removed prior to emergence from anesthesia. For both groups, metoclopramide 10 mg IV was available as a rescue anti-emetic if needed. The frequency of PONV and the requirement of rescue anti-emetics were recorded at multiple time points: at 0, 6, 12, 24, and 48 h postoperatively. Results: In the combination therapy group, 13.3% of patients experienced PONV, compared to 33.3% in the palonosetron group. The difference was statistically significant (95% CI 0.107-0.888, P = 0.025). The combination therapy group had a lower incidence of nausea compared to the palonosetron group, particularly at 6 h (2.2% vs 24.4%, 95% CI 0.009-0.571, P = 0.002) and at 12 h (0% vs 11.1%, 95% CI 1.696-2.662, P = 0.021). The incidence of vomiting was significantly lower in the combination therapy group at 6 h (2.2% vs 15.6%, 95% CI 0.015-1.048, P = 0.026). None of the patients in the combination therapy group required rescue anti-emetics, while 17.8% of patients in the palonosetron group requested these post-operatively. The difference was statistically significant (95% CI 1.746-2.814, P = 0.003). Conclusion: The combination therapy with ondansetron, dexamethasone and acupressure P6 wristband significantly reduced the incidence of PONV and the need for rescue anti-emetics when compared with the palonosetron alone. The benefits of the combination therapy were particularly notable at 6 and 12 h postoperatively, as evidenced by the significantly lower incidence of nausea and vomiting during these time periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pain and anxiety management in patients undergoing medical and surgical procedures is an important competence area for nurses. Aim: This study aimed to determine and compare the effects of virtual reality and acupressure interventions on pain, anxiety, vital signs and comfort levels in the process of femoral catheter extraction for patients undergoing coronary angiography. Methods: The study was a single‐blind, three‐group, randomized controlled trial conducted in the cardiology clinics of a university hospital in 2021. A total of 153 patients (51 virtual reality, 51 acupressure, 51 control) participated in the study. Data were collected using a Visual Analogue Scale, the State–Trait Anxiety Inventory, a vital signs follow‐up form and the Perianesthesia Comfort Scale. Results: Both intervention groups had significantly lower pain and anxiety scores, as well as higher comfort scores, compared to the control group (p < 0.001). The virtual reality group had lower systolic blood pressure, respiratory rate and pulse rate than the control group (p < 0.05). The acupressure group had lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure and respiratory rate than the control group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: While neither intervention group was found to be superior to the other, both interventions improved vital signs and comfort levels by reducing pain and anxiety. Summary statement: What is already known about this topic? Uncontrolled pain and anxiety during medical and surgical procedures may increase the risk of complications and have negative effects on the pulmonary and cardiovascular systems, leading to changes in vital signs and compromising patients' hemodynamics.Virtual reality has demonstrated its potential to restore cognitive attention capacities, enabling patients to remain engaged and mentally focused during procedures, and thus reducing pain and anxiety.Acupressure, as a non‐pharmacological intervention, involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to alleviate pain and anxiety. It constitutes a safe, side‐effect‐free and cost‐effective option for improving patient outcomes.What this paper adds? This paper contributes to the knowledge of virtual reality and acupressure interventions as non‐pharmacological approaches that nurses can safely incorporate within their independent professional roles.The study evaluates the effects of traditional acupressure and technological virtual reality interventions on patients, comparing the two interventions for the first time to the best of our knowledge. Furthermore, to the best of our knowledge, these procedures were applied for the first time in femoral catheter extraction after coronary angiography.The implications of this paper: This study emphasizes the positive impacts of virtual reality and acupressure interventions administered by nurses for patients undergoing medical procedures.Overall, the findings suggest that non‐pharmacological techniques such as virtual reality and acupressure can contribute to a similar degree in improving patient outcomes during medical procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Gastrointestinal immobility is experienced by many patients who undergo gastric surgery. This complication delays enteral nutrition, prolongs hospitalization, and causes discomfort. Acupoint stimulation is a popular alternative nonpharmacological treatment for gastrointestinal immobility. This study aimed to explore the effects of acupoint stimulation on gastrointestinal immobility after gastrectomy. Design: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: Databases (PubMed, Cochrane, Joanna Briggs Institute EBP Database, Medline, CINAHL Complete, and Airiti library) were searched from their inception to April 2022 for relevant articles. Articles in Chinese and English were included, without limitations on year, region, or country. The inclusion criteria were studies with participants >18 years of age, postgastric surgery, and hospitalization. In addition, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. Data were analyzed using random effects models, and data heterogeneity was investigated using subgroup analysis. Meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.4 software. Results: We included 785 participants from six studies. Invasive and noninvasive acupoint stimulation reduced the time of gastrointestinal mobility better than usual care. In the control group, the time of first flatus was 43.56 ± 9.57 h to 108 ± 19.2 h, and the time of first defecation was 77.27 ± 22.67 h to 139.2 ± 24 h. In the experimental group, the time of first flatus and defecation was 36.58 ± 10.75 h to 79.97 ± 37.31 h and 70.56 ± 15.36 h to 108.55 ± 10.75 h, respectively. Subgroup analysis showed that invasive acupoint stimulation with acupuncture reduced the time of first flatus and defecation to 15.03 h (95% confidence interval [CI] = −31.06 to 1.01) and 14.12 h (95% CI = −32.78 to 4.54), respectively. Noninvasive acupoint stimulation, including acupressure and transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS), reduced the time of first flatus and defecation to 12.33 h and (95% CI = −20.59 to −4.06) and 12.20 h (95% CI = −24.92 to 0.52), respectively. Conclusions: Acupoint stimulation improved the gastrointestinal immobility of postgastrectomy. In the included RCT articles, invasive and noninvasive stimulations were effective. However, noninvasive acupoint stimulation, such as with TEAS and acupressure, was more efficient and convenient than invasive stimulation. Overall, health care professionals with adequate training or under the supervision of an acupuncturist can effectively perform acupoint stimulation to improve the quality of postgastrectomy care. They can select commonly used and effective acupoints to enhance gastrointestinal motility. Clinical relevance: Acupoint stimulation, such as acupressure, electrical acupoint stimulation, or acupuncture, can be included in postgastrectomy routine care to improve gastrointestinal motility and reduce abdominal discomfort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context • Intern nursing students are exposed to many stressors, such as preparing for theoretical courses, studying for exams, fearing that they may make mistakes in clinical practice, working under inappropriate conditions, fearing infection, and experiencing insomnia. The stressors in question can increase the students’ level of fatigue. Objective • The study intended to determine the effects of acupressure on nursing students’ fatigue. Design • The research team designed a prospective, twoarm (1:1), single-blinded, randomized controlled clinical trial. Setting • The study took place in the Mersin University Faculty of Nursing in Mersin, Turkey. Participants • Participants were 68 fourth-year nursing students at the university who were interns involved in almost all stages of patient care in clinical practice. Intervention • The research team divided the participants into an acupressure group (n=34), the intervention group, and an acupressure sham group (n = 34), the control group. Both groups performed self-acupressure three times a week for four weeks, for 12 sessions. Outcome Measures • Both groups completed a fatigue severity scale at baseline and postintervention after four weeks of therapy. Results • The acupressure group’s mean scores postintervention on the fatigue severity scale were significantly lower than those of the acupressure sham group (P < .001). Between baseline and postintervention, the acupressure group’s fatigue levels had significantly decreased (P<.001). No significant change occurred in the acupressure sham group’s fatigue levels between baseline and postintervention. Conclusions • Acupressure is a noninvasive, simple, safe, and complimentary and integrated method that nurses can apply independently to manage fatigue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background • Patients experience a fear of death and consequent anxiety before coronary angiography (CA). High levels of stress cause cardiac irritability and increased blood pressure. Acupressure is a non-pharmacological nursing intervention that can relieve and reduce pain and regulate anxiety-related blood pressure levels. Objective • This study aimed to evaluate the effect of acupressure applied before the CA procedure on systolic and diastolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, pulse, and pain intensity parameters after the CA. Design • The study was a randomized controlled trial. Setting • The study took place at the Cardiology Service (CS) of a Training and Research Hospital in Turkey. Participants • One hundred patients who met the research criteria were divided equally into two groups—50 patients in the intervention group (IG) and the rest in the control group (CG)—using a simple randomization method. Intervention group (IG) • The IG received acupressure and the CG did not. Acupressure was applied to patients in the IG 30–60 minutes before the CA. In the study, pressure was applied to the Li4, HT7, and Extra 1 acupressure points. Outcome measure • Pain intensity, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and the pulse of the patients were measured three times—once before the CA intervention and twice after. The study data were collected using a patient information form, a visual analog scale (VAS), an electronic blood pressure measurement device, and a pulse oximeter. Results • It was found that group and group-time interactions were not significant in the IG and CG for systolic and diastolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, and pulse (P>.05). It was observed that the mean VAS of the IG was statistically significantly lower than that of the CG (P=.000). Conclusion • It was concluded that acupressure has no effect in the management of hemodynamic changes after a CA, but it is effective in pain management. We suggest that the use of acupressure be expanded by creating awareness about its benefits among CA patients and nurses working in CS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context • Dementia is the cognitive decline of patients, who often exhibit behavioral and psychological symptoms, severely affecting their quality of life (QoL) and placing a heavy burden on caregivers. Studies have found that acupressure can have benefits for individuals with dementia. Objective • The review intended to critically analyze the currently available evidence on the use of acupressure as a nonpharmacological therapy for people with dementia, based on results from available clinical trials. Design • The research team performed an evidence-based review between March and June 2020, following a systematic search strategy, to find human clinical trials using acupressure as an intervention for dementia patients. For the search, the research team used major research databases—Pubmed, EBSCOhost, PsycInfo, ProQuest, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and CINAHL Plus. Setting • The study was conducted through remote collaboration coordinated through Charles Sturt University Bathurst campus in Australia. Participants • The 12 clinical trials included 973 participants, with the pooled mean age being 81.10 ± 6.74 and 48.2% being males and 51.8% females. Intervention • The reviewed studies evaluated acupressure as an intervention for dementia patients. Outcome Measures • The team synthesized the review results to examine the effects of acupressure on various outcome measures of interest for dementia. Results • Twelve clinical trials (N = 973), including eight randomized controlled studies, were included in the review. Participants were predominantly institutionalized residents, with moderate-to-severe dementia. Baihui (GV20), Shenmen (HT7), Fengchi (GB20), Neiguan (PC6), Sanyinjiao (SP6), and Yingtang (EX-HN3) were the most-used acupoints for intervention. The acupressure techniques varied greatly, with no standardized approach being used. The review found inconsistent evidence on the effectiveness of acupressure in reducing agitation and behavioral disturbances, but the treatment appears to improve the ease of care and reduce physical stress. Affixing acupressure devices on selected acupoints can potentially decrease psychiatric pain, anxiety, and depression. Long-term treatment (6 months) may improve cognitive function, the ability to perform the activities of daily living, and QoL of patients with mild-to-moderate dementia. The effect of acupressure on sleep disturbances remains unclear. Conclusions • More high-quality research on acupressure is needed to fill the gaps in knowledge and inform better care for dementia patients in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The current study aimed to compare the impact of acupressure and clonazepam tablets on the quality of sleep in hemodialysis patients in light of the rising prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD), the high prevalence of sleep disturbance in these patients, and the side effects of hypnotic drugs. Method: A total of 60 patients were selected for this randomized, controlled clinical trial and randomly assigned to two groups. For two weeks during the researcher's evening shift, one group received acupressure (six spots bilaterally for three minutes each day). The opposing group was administered clonazepam tablets (0.5 mg) for two weeks. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), which measures sleep quality, was used to compare sleep in the two groups before and after the intervention. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups prior to the intervention (P = 0.75) in terms of the mean pre-intervention PSQI scores for the acupressure and clonazepam groups, which were 15.83 ± 1.51 and 16.17 ± 0.91, respectively. However, the average PSQI scores after the intervention in the clonazepam and acupressure groups were 13.25 ± 2.88 and 8.97 ± 4.29, respectively, indicating a statistically significant difference (P < 0.0001). Both the acupressure and the clonazepam groups showed improvements in their post-intervention sleep quality among the patients. However, when the percentage changed in the mean scores of the total score and all of the PSQI components were calculated for each group, it became clear that acupressure was more effective at enhancing sleep than clonazepam tablets. Conclusion: The findings of the present investigation demonstrate that acupressure has a greater impact on patients' sleep quality compared to clonazepam tablets. Depending on the circumstances, acupressure can be used as a simple, safe, and non-drug way to enhance hemodialysis patients' quality of sleep. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the healing power of Shiatsu massage and therapeutic touch. It argues that in our modern, isolated world, practices like Shiatsu help dismantle barriers and foster meaningful human connections. Shiatsu derives from traditional Japanese massage and incorporates principles of Traditional East Asian Medicine. It focuses on the flow of vital energy or Ki in the body. Gentle pressure and movement in Shiatsu aim to restore this energy balance. The article examines the multidimensional benefits of touch. On a neuroscientific level, touch activates brain regions that regulate physiological processes and the nervous system. Psychologically, touch enhances wellbeing, childhood development, and relationships by triggering positive emotions and hormone release. The context of touch affects individual perceptions and outcomes. The article emphasizes touch as an antidote to disconnection, making it vital for practitioners to provide in the post-pandemic era. Shiatsu promotes holistic wellness by reconnecting us to our physical, emotional, and spiritual essence through therapeutic touch. It reminds us that we are part of a larger whole. Shiatsu's blend of Eastern medicine and therapeutic touch enhances its healing abilities. It can ease conditions like chronic pain and boost immunity while reducing stress and anxiety. The simplicity of touch underscores empathy and human connection in healing. Incorporating Shiatsu in our lives can involve receiving professional treatment and practising self-Shiatsu. Mindfulness of touch in daily activities is encouraged. Shiatsu therapy promotes overall wellness beyond symptom treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Evaluating the intervention effect of PC6 acupressure on chemotherapy-induced acute, delayed nausea, and vomiting in malignant tumor patients. Method: Eleven databases had been retrieved from January 2010 through January 2022. The published meta-analysis literature was hand-searched, and the language was limited to English and Chinese. The protocol of this meta-analysis was registered with PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42022323693). Two reviewers independently selected relevant eligible articles, extracted data, and evaluated the risk of bias. Meta-analysis was statistically analyzed using software RevMan 5.3. Result: Ten randomized controlled trials with 975 patients were included. Only two studies were assessed as high quality; eight studies were evaluated as moderate. Meta-analysis showed that compared with the control group, PC6 acupressure reduced the occurrence number of acute (SMD = −0.39,95CI (−0.73, −0.05) P = 0.02), delayed (SMD = −0.51, 95% CI (−0.96, −0.05) P = 0.03) nausea and acute (SMD = −0.42,95% CI (−0.79, −0.06) P = 0.02), delayed (SMD = −0.37, 95% CI (−0.77, 0.03) P = 0.07) vomiting; it reduced the severity of acute (SMD = −0.34, 95% CI (−0.57, −0.11) P = 0.004), delayed (SMD = −0.79, 95% CI (−1.33, −0.25) P = 0.004) nausea and acute (SMD = −0.51, 95% CI (−0.79, −0.23) P = 0.0004), delayed (SMD = −0.50, 95% CI (−0.84, −0.17) P = 0.003) vomiting, while it did not reduced the experience time on acute and delayed CINV. Conclusion: The meta-analysis shows the effectiveness of PC6 acupressure in preventing and treating nausea and vomiting. Large, high-quality, well-designed randomized controlled trials are needed in the future to determine the efficacy of PC6 acupressure on chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Postoperative nausea and vomiting is a common complication after laparoscopic surgery and general anesthesia. It increases the patient’s discomfort and compromises the surgical outcome. Aims and Objectives: The study aimed to compare the effectiveness of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator (TENS) and Injection of Metoclopramide for the prevention of post-operative nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing gastrointestinal laparoscopic surgery. The secondary objective of the study was to find out the percentage of cases needed rescue antiemetic drug (Inj. Ondansetron) when prophylaxis failed. Materials and Methods: The study was a prospective, double-blind, randomized trial conducted at M.G.M. Medical College and M.Y. Hospital, Indore. 90 patients of 18–60 years of age, ASA physical status I-II, undergoing elective laparoscopic gastrointestinal surgery were included. Patients were allocated randomly into two equal groups. Group T received TENS (the stimulation group) at P6 acupressure point, whereas group M received an injection of Metoclopramide before induction of anesthesia. Patients in both groups were observed for 24 h postoperatively for the incidence of nausea and vomiting and the requirement for rescue antiemetic. Results: The percentage of Postoperative Nausea Vomiting (PONV) and requirement of rescue antiemetics in both the groups were comparable in the first 6 h following laparoscopic gastrointestinal surgeries (P=1.000). There was no significant difference in PONV and rescue antiemetic requirement at 24 h in both the groups. Conclusion: TENS stimulation at P6 acupressure point is comparable to injection of Metoclopramide in preventing postoperative nausea and vomiting after laparoscopic gastrointestinal surgeries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Spondyloarthritis (SpA) is a serious chronic inflammatory rheumatism implying different painful and crippling symptoms that require a multidisciplinary approach for the patient. Fatigue is one of the less well treated symptoms, even if its repercussion on everyday life is noticeable. Shiatsu is a Japanese preventive and well-being therapy that aims to promote better health. However, the effectiveness of shiatsu in SpA-associated fatigue has never been studied yet in a randomized study. Methods and Analysis: We describe the design of SFASPA (Etude pilote randomisée en cross-over évaluant l'efficacité du Shiatsu sur la FAtigue des patients atteints de SPondyloarthrite Axiale), a single-center, randomized controlled cross-over trial with allocation of patients according to a ratio (1:1) evaluating the effectiveness of shiatsu in SpA-associated fatigue. The sponsor is the Regional Hospital of Orleans, France. The two groups of 60 patients each will receive three "active" shiatsu and three sham shiatsu treatments (120 patients, 720 shiatsu). The wash-out period between the active and the sham shiatsu treatments is 4 months. Planned Outcomes: The primary outcome is the percentage of patients responding to the FACIT-fatigue score. A response to fatigue is defined as an improvement, i.e., an increase of ≥ 4 points in the FACIT-fatigue score, which corresponds to the "minimum clinically important difference" (MCID). Differences in the evolution of activity and impact of the SpA will be assessed on several secondary outcomes. An important aim of this study is also to gather material for further trials with higher proof of evidence. Trial Registration: NCT05433168, date of registration, June 21st, 2022 (clinicaltrials.gov). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of the present study is to analyze the literature on acupuncture/acupressure used in the prevention/treatment of nausea and vomiting in children and to guide future research. Materials and Methods: Between 01.01.1990 and 31.12.2022, publications on acupuncture/ acupressure used for the prevention and treatment of nausea and vomiting in children were searched in the Web of Science Core Collection. The keywords used during this search were ["acupuncture OR acupressure" (All Fields) and "nausea OR vomiting' (All Fields) and "pediatric OR paediatric OR child OR children" (All Fields)]. The publications obtained after this search were scanned one by one and it was determined whether they were appropriate for the present study. The organizations, authors, countries, journals, publication languages and types, distribution of publications by years, Web of Science categories and the most used keywords in these studies were obtained from the Web of Science Core Collection. Descriptive analyzes were conducted in the light of the data obtained from the Web of Science Core Collection. Results: There are 117 publications on acupuncture/acupressure, which is used in the prevention/treatment of nausea and vomiting in children. 63.2% of all publications were published in the last 10 years. Of all publications, only 2 (French, German) were not in English. These 117 publications have been published in 64 different journals. The most active authors; Kelly KM (5 publications), Liodden I (5 publications), Norheim AJ (5 publications), Vohra S (5 publications), the most active country; USA, which has 46.1% of all publications, the most active journal; 40 (34.1%) "Pediatrics" and the most active organization; 8 (6.8%) "Harvard University". The most frequently used keywords were "acupuncture, nause, vomiting, pediatrics and chemotherapy". Looking at the distribution of publication types, almost 90% of all articles were research articles, 73 (62.3%) and reviews 32 (27.3%). Conclusion: All articles on acupuncture/acupressure used for the treatment/prevention of nausea and vomiting in the field of pediatrics published to date in the Web of Science Core Collection were analyzed in the present study. It is obvious that there is a large literature on this subject in pediatric patients, although it is not as extensive and comprehensive as in adults. Especially in the last 10 years, the number of publications has increased significantly, and it is possible to expect a wider range of literature on this subject in the coming years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To systematically assess the efficacy and safety of combining Euodia rutaecarpa Benth acupressure with Wendan decoction for the treatment of vertigo, thereby establishing a theoretical framework for informed clinical practice. Methods: Computer-based search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases to identify randomized controlled literature pertaining to efficacy and safety of Euodia rutaecarpa Benth acupressure in combination with Wendan decoction for management of vertigo. The experimental group received an intervention of Euodia rutaecarpa Benth acupressure combined with Wendan decoction. Articles that met set inclusion and exclusion criteria were screened and evaluated for quality based on Cochrane Quality Rating Scale. Baseline data, intervention data and outcome indicators of included studies were also extracted. Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4 software. Results: The difference in symptom scores between groups was statistically significant (RR = -0.04, 95 % CI (-0.3, 0.23), p = 0.78). Meta-analysis of the outcome indicators showed heterogeneity at p < 0.0001, I² = 91 %. I² = 91 > 50 %. There was a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) between groups in terms of total treatment efficiency (RR = 0.31, 95 % CI (-0.25, 0.88), p = 0.28). Heterogeneity of vertigo degree score showed p < 0.0001, I² = 98 %. I² = 98 % > 50 %, SMD = 2.34, 95 % CI (0.69, 3.99), p = 0.53. Conclusion: The combination of clinical Euodia rutaecarpa Upright acupressure and Wendan decoction demonstrates significant clinical effectiveness in treating vertigo as evidenced by improvement of all indicators. Moreover, this treatment approach exhibits a high level of safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate and rank the evidence for the efficacy of non‐pharmacological interventions in relieving pain after cardiac surgery using comprehensive comparisons. Background: Although several previous systematic reviews and meta‐analyses showed that non‐pharmacological interventions effectively control and reduce pain after cardiac surgery, none quantitatively compared the effect of these different types of interventions. Design: Systematic review and Bayesian network meta‐analysis based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses for Network Meta‐Analysis guidelines. Methods: Six databases were searched from inception to April 2021 to collect all published evidence from randomised clinical trials. One author extracted the relevant information from the eligible trials; a second author independently reviewed the data. Before analysing the extracted data, two investigators independently assessed the quality of the included studies. Conventional meta‐analysis was conducted using either fixed‐ or random‐effects models according to statistical heterogeneity. The Bayesian network meta‐analysis was conducted using the consistency model. Results: We identified 42 randomised clinical trials comparing 14 groups with 4253 patients. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, acupressure, music and massage were effective for pain relief, with transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation being associated with the best probability of successful pain relief after cardiac surgery (cumulative ranking curve surface, 0.97; probability, 77.03%). Acupressure (cumulative ranking curve surface, 0.79; probability, 30.69%) was the second‐best option. However, there was no evidence that any pair‐up intervention significantly reduced opioid use or anxiety. Conclusions: These findings suggest that transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, acupressure, music and massage may effectively alleviate postoperative cardiac pain, with transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation representing the best choice for pain relief. Relevance to clinical practice: The results of this network meta‐analysis can guide patients after cardiac surgery and healthcare providers to make optimal decisions in managing postoperative cardiac pain. Trial registration: PROSPERO CRD42021246183. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing incidences of insomnia in adults, as well as the aging population, have been reported for their negative impact on the quality of life. Insomnia episodes may be associated with neurocognitive, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, renal, hepatic, and metabolic disorders. Epidemiological evidence also revealed the association of insomnia with oncologic and asthmatic complications, which has been indicated as bidirectional. Two therapeutic approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and drugsbased therapies are being practiced for a long time. However, the adverse events associated with drugs limit their wide and long-term application. Further, Traditional Chinese medicine, acupressure, and pulsed magnetic field therapy may also provide therapeutic relief. Notably, the recently introduced cryotherapy has been demonstrated as a potential candidate for insomnia which could reduce pain, by suppressing oxidative stress and inflammation. It seems that the synergistic therapeutic approach of cryotherapy and the above-mentioned approaches might offer promising prospects to further improve efficacy and safety. Considering these facts, this perspective presents a comprehensive summary of recent advances in pathological aetiologies of insomnia including COVID-19, and its therapeutic management with a greater emphasis on cryotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acupressure is a noninvasive method in traditional Chinese medicine to increase blood circulation, relieve discomfort, promote health, and prevent disease. This paper presents a multifunctional acupoint application system that not only provides real-time visualization of acupoints on mobile devices for users' self-acupressure but also provides health care, education, and entertainment through acupressure. The system allows users to obtain acupoint information to relieve specific discomfort or symptoms. It automatically marks the requested acupoints on a real-time camera stream to guide users to locate acupoints so that even users unfamiliar with acupoints can easily find acupoints for self-acupressure. Three core technologies are used: acupoint localization and knowledge, real-time image recognition, and augmented reality. This paper details the system design and implementation. This system uses Google's machine learning kit for facial detection to extract the user's facial features and contours in real time on a mobile device. These contour points are used as landmarks with specific displacements to locate acupoints. As there are many acupoints and various positioning methods, the acupoint location is traditionally described in words through specific feature points and corresponding displacements related to each person's physiological characteristics. This work proposes a novel acupoint positioning and marking mechanism based on the standard acupoint localization, which formalizes various acupoint positioning methods so that positions can be processed and stored in an acupoint database established in this system. This positioning information allows the proposed mechanism to fulfill real-time visualization of acupoints in augmented reality on the camera stream. Experimental results show that the proposed system locates and marks acupoints with low latency and high accuracy. Moreover, the system also provides recommendations for further medical treatment and a mini-game that tests knowledge of acupoints, which enhances users' experience of acupoint massage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acupressure is a popular nonpharmacological intervention that is increasingly proven to effectively alleviate symptoms in patients with cancer. However, the effects of self-acupressure on cancer symptom management are less clear. This systematic review is the first to summarize the current experimental evidence on self-acupressure for symptom management in cancer patients. Eight electronic databases were searched for experimental studies that examined self-acupressure for cancer patients with symptoms and published in peer-reviewed English or Chinese journals. The methodological quality of the included studies was evaluated using the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias assessment tool and the JBI critical appraisal checklist for quasi-experimental studies. Data were extracted as predefined and synthesized narratively. The Template for Intervention Description and Replication checklist was used to report the intervention characteristics. A total of 11 studies were included in this study, six as feasibility or pilot trials. The methodological quality of included studies was suboptimal. Substantial heterogeneity was observed in acupressure training, acupoint selection, intervention duration, dosage, and timing. Self-acupressure was only associated with reduced nausea and vomiting (P = 0.006 and P = 0.001). The limited evidence from this review precludes the definitive conclusions on intervention effectiveness for cancer symptoms. Future research should consider developing the standard protocol for intervention delivery, improving the methodology of self-acupressure trials, and conducting large-scale research to advance the science of self-acupressure for cancer symptom management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background • Academic stress and anxiety are experienced by students as a consequence of examinations. Objective • The purpose of this study was to explore whether or not auricular acupressure therapy can reduce exam anxiety, state anxiety and trait anxiety in nursing students. Methods/Design • A single blinded randomized control trial was designed. Setting • The study was conducted at one univeristy in Daegu City, South Korea. Participants • A total of Fifty-eight sophomore nursing students were initially recruited for the study and were randomly assigned to either the experimental or control group (n = 29 each). In the experimental group, 2 participants dropped out and 1 dropped out in the control group before completing the study, resulting in a final count of n=27 for the experimental group and n=28 for the control group. Intervention • Participants in the experimental group received auricular acupressure at the Shen Men point and endocrine point bilaterally, and participants in the control group received the intervention at a sham point bilaterally. Primary Outcome Measures • Test anxiety levels were rated with the Korean version of the Revised Test anxiety Scale and state-trait anxiety levels were determined with the Korean version of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory Form Y before the intervention and immediately after the examination. Data analysis was performed using the IBM SPSS WIN 25.0 software program. Results • After controlling for baseline outcome values, auricular acupressure therapy was effective in decreasing the test anxiety level; however, no differences were found in state anxiety or trait anxiety. Conclusion • Auricular acupressure therapy is effective in reducing test anxiety in students prior to taking an examination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]