Acupuncture in Treating Osteopenia: A Multicenter, Randomized, Controlled Clinical Trial.

Area of Science:

• Integrative Medicine
• Orthopedics
• Gerontology

Background:

• Osteoporosis is a growing concern, impacting bone density and increasing fracture risk.
• Early intervention is crucial for managing osteoporosis and preventing falls.
• Acupuncture is explored as a complementary therapy for osteoporosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate acupuncture's effectiveness as an early intervention for osteoporosis treatment and prevention.
• To assess acupuncture's impact on bone mineral density (BMD), balance, and muscle strength.
• To analyze changes in bone metabolism markers following acupuncture therapy.

Main Methods:

• A 6-month, multicenter, randomized controlled trial involving 226 osteoporosis patients.
• Participants received standard care (calcium and vitamin D3) with or without additional acupuncture.
• Outcomes measured included BMD, Berg Balance Scale (BBS), bone metabolism indexes, and lower limb function.

Main Results:

• Acupuncture group showed significant improvements in total BBS scores and specific BBS sub-items compared to baseline and control.
• The acupuncture group demonstrated a shortened Five Times Sit-to-Stand Test (FTSST) time.
• Acupuncture led to significant reductions in blood phosphorus, beta-collagen, and N-osteocalcin levels, indicating improved bone metabolism.

Conclusions:

• Acupuncture effectively improves body balance and lower limb muscle strength in osteoporosis patients.
• Acupuncture positively influences bone metabolism, reducing the bone turnover rate.
• The findings support acupuncture as a valuable early intervention for osteoporosis management.