Acupuncture for carpal tunnel syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Dong Q, Li X, Yuan P, Chen G, Li J, Deng J, Wu F, Yang Y, Fu H, Jin R · Frontiers in Neuroscience · 2023 February 23
DOI 10.3389/fnins.2023.1097455
Objective
The evidence for the effectiveness of acupuncture for patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is insufficient. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of acupuncture on CTS through a comprehensive literature search.
Conclusions
Acupuncture as an adjunctive treatment may be effective for patients with CTS. Additionally, more rigorous studies with objective outcomes are needed to investigate the effect of acupuncture in contrast with sham acupuncture or other active treatments.
Critical Appraisal
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Insights
Acupuncture's effectiveness for carpal tunnel syndrome uncovers better pain relief compared to night splints and potential benefits when used alongside other treatments
Acupuncture was found to be more effective than night splints for pain relief, but no differences were observed in symptom severity and functional status. When used alongside other treatments, acupuncture showed potential in improving various CTS factors. However, the evidence quality was generally low or very low.
