Reduction in postpartum weight with laser acupuncture: A randomized control trial
Yu-Chiang Hung1, I-Ling Hung, Wen-Long Hu
1Department of Chinese Medicine Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine School of Chinese Medicine for Post Baccalaureate, I-Shou University Fooyin University College of Nursing Kaohsiung Medical University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
Medicine
|August 26, 2016
Summary
Laser acupuncture therapy effectively reduces postpartum weight retention by improving body mass index (BMI) and body fat percentage (BFP). This therapy shows promise for postpartum weight control, though it did not significantly affect the waist-to-buttocks ratio (WBR).
Area of Science:
- Integrative Medicine
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Weight Management
Background:
- Postpartum weight retention is a significant risk factor for long-term obesity.
- Effective postpartum weight control strategies are crucial for maternal health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of laser acupuncture therapy in managing postpartum weight retention.
- To assess the impact of laser acupuncture on body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage (BFP), and waist-to-buttocks ratio (WBR).
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 66 women with postpartum weight retention.
- Treatment involved verum or sham laser acupuncture at specific acupoints over 5 sessions weekly for 12 sessions.
- Statistical analyses included ANOVA, chi-square tests, and stepwise regression to compare outcomes between groups.
Main Results:
- No significant baseline differences were observed between the laser acupuncture and control groups.
- Laser acupuncture significantly reduced postpartum BMI (P < 0.001) and BFP (P < 0.001).
- No significant difference in waist-to-buttocks ratio (WBR) was found between the groups (P = 0.09).
Conclusions:
- Laser acupuncture therapy is effective in reducing postpartum weight retention by improving BMI and BFP.
- The short-term treatment did not demonstrate a significant impact on the waist-to-buttocks ratio.
