Methods:
Acupressure or physical therapy for one month (Hsieh et al., 2006).
Clinical trial records:
129 patients with chronic low back pain.
Evaluation:
Standard outcome measures for low back pain after treatment and at six month follow-up, primary outcomes measured using Roland and Morris disability questionnaire.
Comparisons:
- In the acupressure group, the mean total Roland and Morris disability questionnaire score after treatment was significantly lower than in the physical therapy group.
- Compared with physical therapy, acupressure had an 89% reduction in significant disability.
- The improvement in the acupressure group sustained at six month follow-up.
- Statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups in all domains after treatment and at six month follow-up: the core outcome, pain visual scale, and modified Oswestry disability questionnaire.
Effects:
Acupressure was effective in relieving low back pain regarding disability, pain scores, and functional status. The benefit was remained for six months.
Reference and data source:
Hsieh, L. L., Kuo, C. H., et al. (2006) Treatment of low back pain by acupressure and physical therapy: randomised controlled trial. Bmj 332, 696-700.
