The effectiveness and safety of Tuina for tension-type headache: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Fan Z, Di A, Huang F, Zhao S, Qiu M, Wu C, Huang C, Guo R, Tian Q, Wu S · Complementary Therapies in Medicine · 2021 May
DOI 10.1016/j.ctcp.2020.101293
Objective
This article aims to systematically review the evidence about the effectiveness of Tuina on the effectiveness rate, pain intensity, and impact of headache in individuals with TTH.
Conclusions
Tuina has a certain effect in treating tension headache. However, due to the low level of methodological quality included in the article, this conclusion should be considered cautiously. More studies are necessary to strengthen the evidence regarding the effectiveness and safety of Tuina for subjects with TTH.
Critical Appraisal
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Insights
Meta-analysis results showed that Tuina was superior to drugs for improving the effectiveness rate for tension-type headache.
Seven studies were included with a total sample of 1228 individuals. Meta-analysis results showed that Tuina was superior to drugs for improving the effectiveness rate. A visual analog scale (VAS) score of Tuina was significantly lower than that of drugs. The trial sequential analysis showed that the effectiveness of Tuina for tension-type headache was accurate. Adverse events were tolerable.
Tuina has a certain effect in treating tension headache. However, due to the low level of methodological quality included in the article, this conclusion should be considered cautiously.
