Acupuncture Improves Functional Limitations for Cancer Patients with Chronic Pain: A Secondary Analysis of PEACE Randomized Clinical Trial
Abstract
Simple Summary This study investigated the effects of electro-acupuncture and auricular acupuncture on pain-related functional impairment in cancer patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain. As a secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial, participants received acupuncture or were placed on a waitlist control. Functional outcomes for upper and lower limbs were measured using standardized scales. Both forms of acupuncture improved functional performance compared with the control group, with benefits varying over time between upper and lower extremities. Additionally, patients who experienced pain relief showed greater functional improvement. These findings suggest that acupuncture may serve as an effective adjunct therapy to enhance physical function and rehabilitation among cancer survivors with chronic pain.
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a secondary / pooled analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 3 of 5 (Moderate · trial / cohort / secondary analysis). Trials without a large randomized design, cohorts and secondary analyses give moderate evidence.
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