Complementary Therapies In Medicine[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Association analysis of physical activity levels with mental state and quality of life in Chinese patients with inflammatory bowel disease: A multicenter study.
Li Z, Wang L, Wan H … +8 more , Tang Z, Wang J, Wang X, Wang W, Su J, Yin A, Zhou Q, An P
Complement Ther Med · 2026 Aug · PMID 41980629 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Although the benefits of physical activity are well-recognized, the relationship between it and the psychological state and quality of life of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in China remains...
INTRODUCTION: Although the benefits of physical activity are well-recognized, the relationship between it and the psychological state and quality of life of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in China remains unclear. Here, this study explores the association analysis between the level of physical activity in IBD and fatigue, anxiety, depression, and quality of life. METHODS: In this multicentre investigative study, clinical data including age, work status, disease duration, disease stage, and bowel manifestations were collected from 321 patients with IBD. Physical activity level, fatigue, psychological status, and quality of life of IBD patients were assessed by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy Fatigue Scale (FACIT-F), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 items (GAD-7), Patient Health Questionnaire Depression Inventory (PHQ-9), and Inflammatory Bowel Disease Quality of Life Questionnaire (IBD-Q), respectively. RESULTS: Of the 321 IBD patients, 57.3% (n = 184) were diagnosed with Crohn's disease (CD) and 42.7% (n = 137) with ulcerative colitis (UC). Among the CD patients, 42.93% had a low level of physical activity, 54.89% experienced severe fatigue, 46.20% had varying degrees of anxiety, and 50.0% had depression problems. Additionally, 21.74% reported a poor quality of life. The mean IBD-Q score was 188.09 ± 28.21. The correlation between physical activity level, psychological status, and quality of life was not statistically significant in CD patients. However, in UC patients, physical activity level was correlated with the GAD-7, IBD-Q total scores, affective functioning, and social functioning scores (P = 0.02, P = 0.023, P = 0.012, and P = 0.004, respectively), with higher levels of physical activity associated with lower GAD-7 scores and higher IBD-Q scores. Furthermore, self-fatigue and lack of time were the main reasons preventing patients from participating in physical activities. Aerobic exercise was more accepted and chosen by patients than muscle training and flexibility training. CONCLUSION: IBD has a low overall physical activity level and suffers from varying degrees of fatigue, anxiety, and depression, which affect its quality of life. Higher levels of physical activity are associated with better psychological status and quality of life. Therefore, it is essential to enhance physical activity levels among individuals with IBD.
Medical hypnosis for migraine management: A systematic review.
Cardinal É, Landry M, Chevestrier A … +5 more , Désilets M, Fournier V, Rousseaux F, Rainville P, Ogez D
Complement Ther Med · 2026 Aug · PMID 41974234 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Migraine, a highly prevalent and disabling condition affecting over one billion people worldwide, poses significant socio-economic challenges, including reduced quality of life, impaired mental health, and de...
BACKGROUND: Migraine, a highly prevalent and disabling condition affecting over one billion people worldwide, poses significant socio-economic challenges, including reduced quality of life, impaired mental health, and decreased productivity. While pharmacological treatments exist, their limitations drive interest in complementary approaches such as medical hypnosis, proven effective in chronic pain management. This systematic review, registered on PROSPERO (ID: CRD42024509302), evaluates the scientific evidence supporting hypnosis for migraine treatment. METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Reviews, and PsycINFO. Inclusion criteria encompassed randomized controlled or quasi-experimental studies on adult migraine sufferers using hypnosis as a standalone intervention. RESULTS: Nine studies involving 406 participants were analyzed, though a meta-analysis was precluded by the heterogeneity of study designs, populations, and outcome measures. Control conditions varied, including standard care and medication, while outcomes assessed ranged from migraine frequency and severity to psychological factors and medication use. The included studies employed two primary hypnosis techniques: to enhance internal resources and mental imagery, with some combining both. Results consistently demonstrated hypnosis's effectiveness in reducing migraine symptoms, often outperforming other non-pharmacological interventions with fewer resources required. However, significant methodological limitations were noted, including inadequate sample descriptions and lack of statistical power calculations. DISCUSSION: This review underscores the potential of hypnosis in migraine management but highlights the need for rigorous research to address methodological gaps and refine intervention strategies. Recommendations for future studies are proposed, as further studies are needed to fill methodological gaps and deepen understanding of its role in migraine management.
Feasibility and preliminary effects of a yoga program developed for adults with post COVID-19 condition (Breathe Easy): Pilot randomized controlled trial.
Welfordsson P, Brodén M, Niemi M … +4 more , Diwan V, Shah K, Pattanadara V, Hallgren M
Complement Ther Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 41921919 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Effective medical management of post COVID-19 condition (post COVID) remains challenging. Symptoms are heterogenous, debilitating, and impact health-related quality of life (HR-QoL). Complementary treatment...
INTRODUCTION: Effective medical management of post COVID-19 condition (post COVID) remains challenging. Symptoms are heterogenous, debilitating, and impact health-related quality of life (HR-QoL). Complementary treatments are needed that can be self-managed and improve health. Yoga is a promising strategy that may help reduce post-COVID symptoms but remains understudied. METHODS: We co-designed a unique yoga intervention for adults with post COVID and evaluated its feasibility and preliminary effects. Two-group parallel, pilot randomized controlled trial with blinded follow-up. Participants were randomized (1:1) to the 12-week yoga program or a health promotion (HP) intervention. All participants received usual medical treatment for post COVID. Twenty-nine participants aged 30-65 years were recruited and randomized (86% follow-up). The primary outcome was feasibility and the secondary outcome was HR-QoL (SF-36). Data were analysed as intention-to-treat using linear mixed modelling. The trial was prospectively registered and approved by the Swedish Ethical Review Authority (2023/06518-01). RESULTS: Through a consensus development process involving yoga experts in India and Sweden, post COVID researchers, and patient advocates, we successfully co-designed and pilot tested a yoga program developed for adults with post COVID. The intervention was feasible with high adherence (≥2 sessions/week = 65%; ≥1 session/week = 95%) and no serious adverse events reported. Preliminary (underpowered) analyses showed no pre-to-post intervention group differences (SF-36 physical health: B = -1.30, 95% CI = -3.60, 1.00, p = .269; mental health: B = 3.49, 95% CI = -0.06, 7.04, p = .054). CONCLUSION: Participation in a yoga program developed for patients with post COVID was feasible. Adequately powered trials are needed to assess whether yoga may help to improve symptoms associated with the condition.
Molecules in motion: A narrative review on exercise, exosomes and eating disorders.
Stoeren MS, Goleva-Fjellet S, Edlund K … +1 more , Bratland-Sanda S
Complement Ther Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 41921918 · Publisher ↗
Exercise plays a dual role in eating disorders: maladaptive exercise contributes to their development and maintenance, while supervised and adapted exercise can support recovery. The mechanisms underlying these opposing...
Exercise plays a dual role in eating disorders: maladaptive exercise contributes to their development and maintenance, while supervised and adapted exercise can support recovery. The mechanisms underlying these opposing effects remain unclear. Exosomes, i.e., key mediators of organ crosstalk, may help explain both harmful and therapeutic exercise responses. This narrative review examines how exosomes and their cargo may serve as biomarkers of exercise effects in the context of eating disorders. We synthesized current evidence on exosome biology, exercise-induced exosomal signaling, and insights from related clinical conditions. Current knowledgebase shows that exercise alters exosome release and cargo, including myomiRs involved in muscle regeneration, neuroplasticity, and metabolic regulation. Findings from populations with depression or neurodegenerative disorders suggest that exercise-responsive exosomes can influence various factors of brain health, though these mechanisms have not yet been studied in eating disorders. The exosomal cargo sensitivity to stressors such as exercise and low energy availability, indicate that exosomes may offer a promising pathway for diagnostic and therapeutic biomarker development. Future research must replicate research from other clinical conditions on exercise-induced release and alteration of exosome and their cargo to populations with eating disorders to clearly establish this mechanism in eating disorders treatment.
Motor developmental Tui na method with comprehensive rehabilitation in children with spastic cerebral palsy: A randomized controlled trial.
Song WS, Lu P, Hu QL … +4 more , Zhang Q, Yin ZY, Fan XB, Chen LY
Complement Ther Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 41921917 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVES: This study evaluates the effects of comprehensive rehabilitation combined with motor developmental treatment (Tui na therapy) on foot and ankle dysfunction in children with spastic cerebral palsy. The main go...
OBJECTIVES: This study evaluates the effects of comprehensive rehabilitation combined with motor developmental treatment (Tui na therapy) on foot and ankle dysfunction in children with spastic cerebral palsy. The main goals were to measure alterations in neuromuscular function, range of motion, and muscle tension using surface electromyography (sEMG) in conjunction with clinical assessments. METHODS: The randomized controlled trial divided 56 children with spastic diplegia cerebral palsy into control and experimental groups. The control group received standard comprehensive rehabilitation therapy, encompassing speech, occupational, and physical therapy. The experimental group received motor developing treatment alongside standard rehabilitation therapy. Both interventions were given three times per week for a duration of twelve weeks. The outcomes were Modified Ashworth Scale for evaluating muscular tone, goniometer evaluations for active ankle dorsiflexion range of motion, Ryder's test for assessing tibial torsion angle, and sEMG recordings of the gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior muscles. Data analysis was carried out using SPSS, with statistical significance defined at p < 0.05. RESULTS: Following the intervention, improved active ankle range of motion and reduced gastrocnemius strain was noted in both the groups. The experimental group had significantly better outcomes compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The sEMG measurement in the experimental group for both muscles showed enhanced activation and coordination. CONCLUSION: Motor developmental therapy targeting the feet and ankles may be optimized through comprehensive rehabilitation in children with spastic cerebral palsy. We propose an integrated approach in the management of spastic cerebral palsy, presenting a promising therapeutic approach by enhancing muscle activation, diminishing spasticity, and improving overall motor function.
Effect of AI-composed music on emotional and physiological states in healthy volunteers: A pilot study.
Becker AS, van der Valk Bouman ES, van Eekelen B … +3 more , Geensen R, Schaap J, Klimek M
Complement Ther Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 41921916 · Publisher ↗
Music is a promising nonpharmacological intervention for enhancing healthcare outcomes. Emotional regulation is a key mechanism in this process, but results vary, possibly due to differences in music selection. This stud...
Music is a promising nonpharmacological intervention for enhancing healthcare outcomes. Emotional regulation is a key mechanism in this process, but results vary, possibly due to differences in music selection. This study explores the impact of AI-composed music on emotional and physiological states, as measured by the self-assessment mannequin (SAM) and heart rate variability (HRV). Healthy volunteers (n = 30) were subjected to 10 min of AI-composed music with the intention of creating positive valence and negative arousal. Before the intervention, questionnaires on personal characteristics and music preferences, and baseline HRV were measured. Subjectively, no significant change in valence was observed (Δ median 0.0 (IQR 0.0;1.0), p = 0.077), whereas arousal (Δ median -1.0 (IQR -2.0;0.0), p < 0.001) and dominance (Δ median 0.5 (IQR 0.0;1.0), p = 0.008) significantly decreased. Ordinal regression analysis revealed that a higher rating for classical music (in line with the genre of the AI-composed music) predicted a higher valence rating after the intervention (OR 2.39, 95% CI 1.16-4.92; p = 0.018). Objectively, HRV measurements decreased and suggested a less relaxed/more excited state during the music listening task compared to baseline. Subsequent analysis revealed that an increase in valence was associated with higher HRV. In conclusion, after listening to the AI-composed music, subjective arousal was significantly lower, whereas valence was overall not affected by the music. However, music preference emerged as a crucial factor influencing emotional valence, which in turn affected HRV, indicating a more relaxed state. Therefore, AI-composed music in line with individual preferences may benefit music interventions, encouraging personalized approaches in healthcare.
Efficacy and acupoint specificity of sedative-tranquilizing acupuncture for Alzheimer's disease with sleep disorders: A three-arm randomized controlled trial protocol.
Liu H, Zhong XC, Xiong J … +4 more , Zhou L, Zeng SQ, Wang HB, Li ZQ
Complement Ther Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 41916432 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVES: Sleep disorders (SD) are highly prevalent in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD); however, effective pharmacological interventions are often limited by adverse effects or insufficient efficacy. This study...
OBJECTIVES: Sleep disorders (SD) are highly prevalent in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD); however, effective pharmacological interventions are often limited by adverse effects or insufficient efficacy. This study aims to evaluate the clinical synergistic value and the "sleep-cognition co-modulation" effect of sedative-tranquilizing acupuncture, a specialized non-pharmacological therapy, in managing AD-SD comorbidity. PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS: This is a multicenter, randomized, controlled trial (RCT) involving 72 participants diagnosed with both AD and SD. Participants will be randomly assigned (1:1:1) to one of three groups: the control group, receiving standard care (donepezil hydrochloride combined with cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia [CBT-I]); the acupuncture group, receiving sedative-tranquilizing acupuncture in addition to standard care; and the sham acupuncture group, receiving sham acupuncture plus standard care. The primary outcome measure is the change from baseline in the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) score. Secondary outcomes include cognitive function (Mini-Mental State Examination [MMSE]), quality of life (Quality of Life in Alzheimer's Disease [AD-QOL] scale), and psychological symptoms (Hamilton Anxiety Scale [HAMA] and the 17-item Hamilton Depression Scale [HAMD-17]). Furthermore, peripheral biochemical markers, polysomnography (PSG) parameters, and neuroimaging data will be analyzed to explore underlying mechanisms. All analyses will be performed on an intention-to-treat (ITT) basis. CONCLUSIONS: This trial is expected to provide robust clinical evidence regarding whether sedative-tranquilizing acupuncture can effectively assist in improving sleep quality and cognitive function in patients with AD-SD comorbidity. The findings will further elucidate the potential neurobiological mechanisms of acupuncture and offer a novel integrative strategy for the management of AD-related sleep disturbances. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of Nanchang Hongdu Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (KYKS-2024044-1(X-2) and registered with the International Traditional Medicine Clinical Trial Registry (https://itmctr.ccebtcm.org.cn/mgt/project/user/user-project-view/09DB9DBC-F576-4AF9-AF4E-D6D88E1B1B6B).
Response to commentary: Dissecting domain-specific cognitive gains of Baduanjin exercise in breast cancer patients receiving chemotherapy.
Wei X, Liu D, Yuan R … +3 more , Zheng W, Li K, Wu C
Complement Ther Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 41911981 · Publisher ↗
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Beyond global scores: Could domain-specific cognitive effects of Baduanjin be masked by composite neuropsychological metrics?
Qi C, He L, Wang Z
Complement Ther Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 41911980 · Publisher ↗
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Forefoot or rearfoot textured insoles influence postural sway and plantar pressure during quiet standing in community-dwelling older adults.
Matamura T, Takata Y, Oshita S … +3 more , Kimura K, Matsuoka S, Mizumoto A
Complement Ther Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 41905676 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Plantar cutaneous sensation declines with age, leading to alterations in the plantar pressure distribution and increased postural instability in older adults. Textured insoles stimulate the plantar surface, w...
BACKGROUND: Plantar cutaneous sensation declines with age, leading to alterations in the plantar pressure distribution and increased postural instability in older adults. Textured insoles stimulate the plantar surface, which can modify plantar pressure distribution and improve postural sway during standing. Although the distribution of plantar cutaneous receptors varies across regions of the plantar surface, the effects of region-specific plantar stimulation on plantar pressure distribution and postural sway remain unclear. This study aimed to examine the effects of region-specific plantar stimulation using textured insoles on postural stability and plantar pressure during quiet standing in community-dwelling older adults. METHODS: Forty-three community-dwelling older adults (men and women) participated in this study. Postural stability was assessed by measuring the center of pressure (COP) using a force platform, and plantar pressure was measured using a pressure distribution measurement system. COP and plantar pressure were recorded simultaneously. Textured insoles were randomly inserted to stimulate the different regions of the plantar surface, and postural stability and plantar pressure were measured during quiet standing with eyes closed. RESULTS: Textured insoles applied to the forefoot significantly increased plantar pressure in the lateral forefoot region. However, no significant differences in COP were observed among the insole conditions. CONCLUSION: Forefoot textured insoles can alter plantar pressure during quiet standing in older adults, which may influence postural control. Further research is needed to examine other factors influencing postural sway and to explore interventions for older adults at risk of falls.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy with abdominal breathing and music therapy for anxiety, depression, and well-being in glioma patients undergoing chemotherapy: A factorial design analysis.
Zhang C, Zhang H, Li L … +2 more , Xu J, Feng Y
Complement Ther Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 41905675 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the effects of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) combined with abdominal breathing training (ABT) and/or music therapy (MT) on negative emotions and subjective well-being in glioma patien...
OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the effects of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) combined with abdominal breathing training (ABT) and/or music therapy (MT) on negative emotions and subjective well-being in glioma patients undergoing chemotherapy. METHODS: Glioma patients receiving first-time chemotherapy at Henan Provincial People's Hospital from January 2022 to December 2023 were enrolled. Participants were randomly assigned to control (routine nursing), ABT (routine nursing + CBT + ABT), MT (routine nursing + CBT + MT), and combined (routine nursing + CBT + ABT + MT) groups. Anxiety, depression, and subjective well-being were assessed using the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS), and General Well-being Scale (GWBS) after the first and after the fourth chemotherapy cycles. RESULTS: The study included 43, 45, 44, and 42 participants in the control, ABT, MT, and combined groups, respectively. Compared to the control group, CBT+MT and CBT+ABT interventions significantly reduced anxiety (-16.90%, P < 0.001, and -22.90%, P = 0.003, respectively) and depression (-20.52%, P < 0.001, and -14.00%, P < 0.001, respectively). However, the combined intervention did not significantly reduce anxiety (P = 0.486) or depression (P = 0.313). Subjective well-being significantly improved in the CBT+MT (+25.26%, P < 0.001), CBT+ABT (+25.92%, P < 0.001), and combined (+34.50%, P = 0.009) groups compared with the control group. CONCLUSIONS: CBT combined with ABT or MT may effectively alleviate anxiety and depression in glioma patients undergoing chemotherapy. The combination of ABT and MT with CBT significantly improved subjective well-being. These findings provide a reference for clinical interventions aimed at enhancing emotional well-being in this patient population.
Can massage ameliorate menopausal and postmenopausal symptoms in women? A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Lu X, Xu X, Shi X … +4 more , Lian B, Yu L, Pan J, Gou H
Complement Ther Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 41903824 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVES: This systematic review and meta-analysis study explores the effect of massage on comprehensive menopause symptoms, including vasomotor, physical, psychological, sexual, sleep, anxiety, depression, and fatigue...
OBJECTIVES: This systematic review and meta-analysis study explores the effect of massage on comprehensive menopause symptoms, including vasomotor, physical, psychological, sexual, sleep, anxiety, depression, and fatigue in menopausal and postmenopausal women. METHODS: The following English databases, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Web of Science, and other databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published between inception and Oct 25, 2025. RCTs that investigated the efficacy of massage on menopause symptoms were included. Revman software (version 5.0) was used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: Massage showed benefits for most menopause outcomes in the total index of the menopause rating scale (MRS) after treatment (P = 0.0007), somatic subscale (P = 0.001), psychosocial subscale (P < 0.00001), but showed no significant effect on the urogenital subscale (P = 0.22). There were some benefits for the menopause-specific quality of life (MENQOL) vasomotor (P = 0.08), psychosocial (P = 0.05), physical (P = 0.22), and sexual subscales (P = 0.04). The discrepancy between the MRS and MENQOL subscales was explored and discussed. The effects of massage on other indices showed some but not all benefits, including the Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI; P = 0.87), Beck anxiety inventory (BAI; P = 0.0004), Beck depression inventory (BDI; P < 0.00001), Short Form 36 Health survey (SF-36) mental subscale (P = 0.76), and fatigue severity scale (P < 0.00001). The heterogeneities of most studies were not high. CONCLUSIONS: Massage significantly improves psychological, depressive, anxious, and fatigue-related symptoms in menopausal and postmenopausal women but does not show significant effects on urogenital, sleep-related, and other physical symptoms. It can be recommended as an effective therapy for menopausal and postmenopausal syndromes.
Physical exercise and body awareness/movement quality in adults with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): Results from the START randomized controlled trial.
Svedell LA, Holmqvist KL, Msghina M … +1 more , Lindvall MA
Complement Ther Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 41903823 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Adults with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often experience difficulties regulating emotions and balancing activity and rest. Impairments such as motor skills challenges and reduced body awar...
BACKGROUND: Adults with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often experience difficulties regulating emotions and balancing activity and rest. Impairments such as motor skills challenges and reduced body awareness, including interpretation of sensory signals and attitudes toward the body, often receive little clinical attention despite their potential negative impact on daily functioning and health. The START intervention is a 12-week structured exercise program that combines regular physical exercise with mindful attention to the body during movement. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the START intervention on body awareness and movement quality in adults with ADHD. METHODS: In this randomized controlled trial, 63 adults with ADHD were assessed for body awareness and movement quality before and after a 12-week intervention or treatment-as-usual control period using the Body Awareness Scale - Movement Quality and Experience. RESULTS: Thirty-nine participants completed the study (26 intervention/13 control). Participants in the intervention group showed significantly greater improvement in body awareness compared to the control group, both in total score and in subscales for muscular tension and physical activity. Movement quality improved significantly within the intervention group, although no significant between-group differences were observed. CONCLUSIONS: Structured physical exercise with mindful attention to the body enhanced body awareness in adults with ADHD compared to standard care. Effects on movement quality were not statistically different between groups and therefore remain uncertain. These findings suggest that such exercise may be a useful complement to conventional treatments and may support a healthier relationship with the body.
Diseases and characteristics of patients getting inpatient complementary medicine in acute care -a retrospective analysis of inpatient records over a period of 17 years.
Romeyke T, Stummer H
Complement Ther Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 41903822 · Publisher ↗
Complementary therapies are becoming increasingly popular with patients. Specialized clinics can offer complementary medicine to patients in the German healthcare system, taking into account specific structural requireme...
Complementary therapies are becoming increasingly popular with patients. Specialized clinics can offer complementary medicine to patients in the German healthcare system, taking into account specific structural requirements. However, little is known about the patients treated in these hospitals. For this purpose, 12,457 hospital stays were analysed from 2007 to 2024 in an approved acute care hospital to obtain more information about the illnesses, comorbidities, length of stay in hospital, age, and chronicity of the patients. Approximately half of the hospital stays examined showed pain-related disorders (49.3%), followed by common internal medical conditions (11.7%) and psychological diagnoses (10.3%). Women showed on mean 14 secondary diagnosis (median 9.0, IQR 6.0), male patients 9.1 (median 9.0, IQR 6.0). 5562 stays showed five or more comorbidities. Considering all hospital stays, the female gender predominated (N = 9680, 77.7%, 95% CI 77.0-78.4% vs. male N = 2777, 22,3%, 95% CI 21.6-23.0%). The mean age of female patients was 64.6 (median 65.0, IQR25.0) of male patients 64.8 (median 66.0, IQR 24.0). The mean length of stay was 12.2 days (median 14, IQR 7.0). A large number of patients have chronic conditions, with pronounced pain and psychological impairments. A complementary medicine treatment concept focuses on the treatment of chronically ill patients with multiple diseases.
Mapping global research trends of Tai Chi for sleep health: Scientometric insights and network-based perspectives.
Liang Z, Ding C, He G … +1 more , Chen S
Complement Ther Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 41887340 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Sleep disorders have become a widespread public health challenge closely linked to cognitive decline, immune dysfunction, and chronic diseases. While pharmacological and cognitive-behavioral therapies remain...
BACKGROUND: Sleep disorders have become a widespread public health challenge closely linked to cognitive decline, immune dysfunction, and chronic diseases. While pharmacological and cognitive-behavioral therapies remain standard treatments, their limitations-such as dependency and relapse-necessitate effective, low-risk alternatives. Tai Chi, a traditional Chinese mind-body exercise emphasizing mindfulness, breathing, and gentle movement, has been increasingly recognized for its potential to enhance sleep quality. However, global research in this area remains scattered and lacks integrative synthesis. OBJECTIVES: This study aims to systematically map the global research landscape, collaboration networks, and thematic evolution of Tai Chi in improving sleep health, synthesizing the findings from existing literature and identifying its knowledge structure and emerging public health relevance. METHODS: Publications related to Tai Chi and sleep (2000-2025) were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection and PubMed databases. Scientometric and bibliometric analyses were performed using CiteSpace, VOSviewer, Carrot2, and Tableau Public to evaluate publication trends, countries, institutions, authorship, journal co-citations, and keyword clusters. RESULTS: A total of 688 publications were identified, showing a rapid increase in research output after 2015. China and the United States together contributed nearly 70% of global publications, with the University of California, Los Angeles, and the University of Hong Kong as leading institutions. Three dominant research clusters emerged: (1) Neuromodulation and physiological mechanisms regulating autonomic and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis balance; (2) Psychological and emotional regulation improving stress, anxiety, and depression; (3) Clinical and preventive applications among elderly, cardiovascular, psychiatric, and cancer populations. Recent randomized controlled trials have suggested that Tai Chi may offer comparable efficacy to cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia and its potential role in multidimensional health enhancement. CONCLUSIONS: This scientometric analysis provides the first comprehensive overview of global Tai Chi research on sleep improvement. The findings suggest that Tai Chi may serve as a culturally adaptable, cost-effective, and holistic intervention for sleep health promotion, bridging traditional exercise and modern public health frameworks.
Eccentric exercise therapy for medial epicondylitis: A systematic review of clinical outcomes.
See ZH, Loo CE, Jaafar Z
Complement Ther Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 41887339 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Medial epicondylitis, a tendinopathy of the flexor-pronator origin, remains less studied than lateral epicondylitis, especially regarding exercise-based interventions. Eccentric exercise has demonstrated bene...
BACKGROUND: Medial epicondylitis, a tendinopathy of the flexor-pronator origin, remains less studied than lateral epicondylitis, especially regarding exercise-based interventions. Eccentric exercise has demonstrated benefits in other tendinopathies, but its role in medial epicondylitis has not been systematically evaluated. OBJECTIVE: To synthesize clinical evidence on the effectiveness of eccentric exercise in reducing pain and improving function in medial epicondylitis. METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, five databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, Google Scholar) were searched from inception to January 2025. Clinical studies evaluating eccentric loading of the wrist flexor-pronator musculature as a primary intervention component for medial epicondylitis were included. Two reviewers independently screened the records, extracted the data, and assessed the risk of bias. RESULTS: Five studies (n = 143 patients) were included, comprising randomized controlled trials (RCT), pre-post studies, and comparative analyses. Eccentric exercise was associated with significant within-group reductions in pain and improvements in functional outcomes across included studies. Between-group superiority was demonstrated in one RCT. Combined interventions showed superior outcomes compared with ultrasound in one trial, while other comparative studies demonstrated significant within-group improvements without clear between-group differences. Sustained pain relief and functional improvement at 11-year follow-up were reported in a single uncontrolled study. Heterogeneity in intervention protocols and small sample sizes precluded meta-analysis. CONCLUSION: Current evidence suggests that eccentric exercise may reduce pain and improve function in medial epicondylitis, particularly when incorporated into multimodal conservative management. However, the overall certainty of evidence remains low, and larger high-quality randomized trials are required to confirm these findings.
Efficacy and safety of acupuncture in slowing visual field loss in normal-tension glaucoma: A 24-week randomized controlled trial.
Chen SY, Yieh FS, Wu PY … +2 more , Chiang SY, Hsieh CL
Complement Ther Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 41887338 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Normal-tension glaucoma (NTG) is a progressive optic neuropathy for which effective treatment strategies remain limited. We previously demonstrated that short-term (2-week) acupuncture can reduce intraocular...
BACKGROUND: Normal-tension glaucoma (NTG) is a progressive optic neuropathy for which effective treatment strategies remain limited. We previously demonstrated that short-term (2-week) acupuncture can reduce intraocular pressure (IOP). In this study, we investigated the long-term efficacy and safety of acupuncture on visual function and structural parameters in NTG patients. METHODS: In this 24-week randomized controlled trial, 40 patients with NTG received once-weekly acupuncture at the Jingming (BL1) and Qiuhou (EX-HN7) acupoints (n = 20) or sham acupuncture with Vaccaria seeds (Wang-Bu-Liu-Xing) (n = 20) at the same locations. RESULTS: At 24 weeks, the true acupuncture group significantly improved their best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) from baseline in both the right (p = 0.0102) and left (p = 0.0128) eyes, increased retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness in both eyes (right: p = 0.0477; left: p = 0.0208), and reduced IOP (right: p = 0.0430; left: p = 0.0401). No such improvements were observed with sham acupuncture. The rate of visual field deterioration was also significantly slower with true acupuncture compared with sham acupuncture (p < 0.05 for both eyes). No adverse treatment-related events were reported. CONCLUSION: This is the first clinical trial to demonstrate that long-term acupuncture may effectively preserve both structural and functional visual parameters in patients with NTG, suggesting a potential neuroprotective effect of acupuncture and supporting its role as a promising adjunctive therapy. Further validation is warranted with larger, double-blind, multicenter trials.
AMBER trial (amla-based extract for endobronchial ultrasound cough reduction): A randomized controlled study.
Boonfueang W, Savigamin C, Thanthitaweewat V … +7 more , Leelayuwatanakul N, Wongsrichanalai V, Kawkitinarong K, Sittipunt C, Wongkarnjana A, Pachinburavan M, Sriprasart T
Complement Ther Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 41887337 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Cough during endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) is common and can reduce patient comfort, prolong procedures, and compromise diagnostic yield. While dextromethorphan has demonstrated antitussive efficacy, concer...
BACKGROUND: Cough during endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) is common and can reduce patient comfort, prolong procedures, and compromise diagnostic yield. While dextromethorphan has demonstrated antitussive efficacy, concerns remain regarding side effects and availability. Emblica officinalis (Amla) is a traditional herbal medicine with reported antitussive properties, but human evidence is lacking. OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the efficacy of E. officinalis compared with dextromethorphan and their combination as premedication for cough suppression in patients undergoing advanced EBUS. METHODS: In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 118 patients undergoing EBUS were allocated to placebo, dextromethorphan 60 mg, E. officinalis extract 600 mg, or their combination. Cough events were recorded throughout the procedure. The primary outcome was total cough count. Secondary outcomes included oxygen desaturation, sedative/analgesic requirements, procedure difficulty, and patient-reported discomfort. RESULTS: Median cough counts were 61.0 (IQR 26.3-90.8) in placebo, 20.0 (5.0-27.0) with dextromethorphan, 27.0 (14.0-40.0) with E. officinalis, and 25.5 (15.3-29.0) with the combination. Kruskal-Wallis testing showed significant group differences (p = 0.019, rank η²=0.061). All active treatments reduced cough versus placebo (p < 0.05), with no differences among active arms. E. officinalis reduced oxygen desaturation, while dextromethorphan lowered sedative requirements. No adverse events occurred. CONCLUSION: E. officinalis significantly reduced cough during EBUS, with efficacy comparable to dextromethorphan and an excellent safety profile. These findings suggest E. officinalis may serve as a safe, cost-effective alternative premedication for cough suppression in advanced bronchoscopy.
Telemedical acupressure and Qigong for post-COVID fatigue: A qualitative study.
Jansen E, Batram H, Engelhardt U … +3 more , Stöckigt B, Brinkhaus B, Dietzel J
Complement Ther Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 41881283 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Post-COVID syndrome (PCS) is characterized by persistent fatigue and limited treatment options. Telemedical self-care approaches such as online Qigong and self-applied acupressure are increasingly used, yet l...
BACKGROUND: Post-COVID syndrome (PCS) is characterized by persistent fatigue and limited treatment options. Telemedical self-care approaches such as online Qigong and self-applied acupressure are increasingly used, yet little is known about how participants experience and integrate these interventions. This qualitative substudy explored participants' perspectives within the ACUQiG randomized trial. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 participants (8 female, 4 male; age 35-57) after completing an eight-week program of online Qigong and self-applied acupressure. Interviews were conducted face-to-face, via secure online video or by telephone and focused on motivations, everyday integration, and participants' perceived benefits and challenges of the intervention. Sampling continued until thematic saturation was reached. Data were analyzed using thematic qualitative content analysis. RESULTS: Motivations included dissatisfaction with conventional care, cautious openness toward complementary medicine, the wish to contribute to research, and persistent hope for improvement. Telemedical delivery and group formats facilitated integration into daily routines, whereas cognitive impairments, fluctuating fatigue, and limited privacy hindered regular practice. Participants reported perceived changes such as increased calmness, improved breathing, and symptom relief, alongside ambiguous or minimal experiences and, in some cases, discomfort related to acupressure. CONCLUSION: From participants' perspectives, telemedical Qigong and acupressure functioned as self-care tools that provided structure, emotional regulation, and a sense of agency in living with PCS. At the same time, the flexibility of the telemedical format both enabled access and, for some, reduced externally imposed structure, while cognitive, physical, and contextual barriers constrained consistent engagement. These findings suggest that future telemedical programs should carefully balance flexibility with structured support and remain sensitive to individual capacities and everyday circumstances.
Roles and engagement levels of caregivers during dyadic Tai Chi interventions: A scoping review.
Zhang Y, Ngai FW, Liang J … +4 more , Yang Q, Zhao M, Wei L, Xie YJ
Complement Ther Med · 2026 Jun · PMID 41839354 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Dyadic Tai Chi interventions are increasingly employed for care recipient-caregiver dyads, improving safety, benefits, and interpersonal connections. However, research shows considerable heterogeneity in defi...
BACKGROUND: Dyadic Tai Chi interventions are increasingly employed for care recipient-caregiver dyads, improving safety, benefits, and interpersonal connections. However, research shows considerable heterogeneity in defining and implementing caregiver roles and engagement, highlighting the need for clearer standards to support evidence-based practice. OBJECTIVE: To review and clarify the roles and engagement levels of caregivers during dyadic Tai Chi interventions. METHODS: A scoping review was conducted following the methodological framework and reported per PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Systematic search was performed across nine databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, PsycINFO, Google Scholar, CNKI, and WanFang). RESULTS: Of the 20 articles included, more than one third (35%, n = 7) failed to define caregivers or specify inclusion criteria. Where specified, criteria commonly included age restrictions, active caregiving roles, cognitive competence, cohabitation/frequent contact, and primary family caregiver status. Family caregivers were the most common type (70%, n = 14), followed by unpaid (20%, n = 4) and paid caregivers (10%, n = 2). Their roles varied substantially, including active co-designing practice regimens, monitoring adherence and ensuring safety, and assisting with data collection. Key attributes of dyadic Tai Chi interventions included the mode of task execution (dyadic co-execution), varying caregiver engagement (passive presence, parallel engagement, and interactive engagement), and target populations: care recipients (55%, n = 11), dyads (40%, n = 8), and caregivers only (5%, n = 1). CONCLUSION: The findings clarify caregivers' roles and engagement levels during dyadic Tai Chi interventions. The observed heterogeneity highlights the complexity and dynamic attributes, indicating a greater standardization in future research.
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