Modified acupuncture therapy, long-term acupoint stimulation versus sham control for weight control: a multicenter,...

Area of Science:

• Integrative and Complementary Medicine
• Obesity Research
• Clinical Trial Methodology

Background:

• Preliminary evidence suggests Long-term acupoint stimulation (LAS) aids body-weight control.
• Previous trials lacked the quality to support widespread application.
• A robust study was needed to confirm LAS efficacy and safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Long-term acupoint stimulation (LAS) for body-weight control.
• To compare LAS against a sham procedure in a randomized clinical trial.
• To assess the sustained effects of LAS during a follow-up period.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, single-blind, sham-controlled trial was conducted with 84 adults (BMI ≥ 24 kg/m²).
• Participants received either LAS or sham LAS (SLAS) eight times over 10-day intervals.
• Primary outcome was body weight change; secondary outcomes included WHR, lipid metabolism, and adipose tissue.

Main Results:

• LAS significantly reduced body weight compared to sham control (net difference: 1.57 kg; p=0.012), with effects sustained at follow-up (net difference: 3.20 kg; p=0.001).
• LAS therapy improved triglyceride levels and reduced subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT).
• One participant reported mild discomfort; no other adverse events occurred.

Conclusions:

• Long-term acupoint stimulation (LAS) is a safe and effective intervention for weight management.
• LAS offers a viable alternative to traditional acupuncture for obesity treatment.
• Further research can explore LAS mechanisms and long-term outcomes.