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Acupuncture for pediatric chronic pain: a systematic review
João Roberto Bissoto1, José Udevanier Rebouças da Silva Júnior2, Gabrielle Pignoli Alvares3
1Departamento de Pediatria, Grupo de Reumatologia Pediátrica, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Departamento de Ortopedia e Traumatologia, Grupo de Acupuntura, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
Jornal De Pediatria
|May 2, 2024
Summary
Acupuncture shows promise for pediatric chronic pain, improving quality of life. However, current evidence is limited, necessitating larger, well-designed studies for confirmation.
Area of Science:
- Integrative Medicine
- Pediatric Pain Management
- Evidence-Based Practice
Background:
- Chronic pain significantly impacts children's quality of life.
- Acupuncture and related techniques are explored for pain management.
- Limited research exists on acupuncture for pediatric chronic pain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and analyze scientific evidence.
- To evaluate acupuncture's efficacy in pediatric chronic pain.
- To discuss the current state of research and future directions.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive database search (MEDLINE, Scopus, SciELO) following PRISMA guidelines.
- Inclusion of clinical studies (up to age 22) including randomized trials, single-arm studies, and case series.
- Quality assessment using MMAT and STRICTA criteria for randomized trials.
Main Results:
- 5 studies (2 case series, 2 single-arm, 1 RCT) met inclusion criteria from 2369 retrieved articles.
- Studies indicated positive outcomes: reduced pain intensity, improved school attendance, and social life.
- Included studies were assessed as good quality.
Conclusions:
- Acupuncture demonstrated potential benefits in pediatric chronic pain management.
- Significant limitations in study design and sample size were noted.
- Weak evidence currently supports acupuncture; further robust research is essential.
