The Management of Sciatica by Acupuncture: An Expert Consensus Using the Improved Delphi Survey.

Area of Science:

• Traditional Chinese Medicine
• Neurology
• Pain Management

Background:

• Sciatica is a common condition requiring effective non-drug therapies.
• Acupuncture shows promise for sciatica but lacks standardized treatment strategies.
• Expert consensus is needed for clinical guidance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish an expert consensus on acupuncture treatment for sciatica.
• To provide clinical guidance for managing sciatica with acupuncture.
• To develop evidence-based recommendations through a Delphi survey.

Main Methods:

• An improved Delphi survey involving 80 clinical specialists.
• Systematic literature reviews of acupuncture for sciatica.
• Three rounds of expert surveys to reach consensus on key treatment items.

Main Results:

• Consensus was achieved on 16 out of 17 items (94.12%).
• Key consensus domains include treatment principles, acupuncture dosage, clinical effects, and adverse effects.
• The findings reflect current expert opinions in China.

Conclusions:

• Expert consensus was reached on essential aspects of acupuncture for sciatica management.
• These recommendations offer valuable clinical guidance.
• The consensus aims to facilitate the implementation of standardized acupuncture treatment for sciatica.