Abstract Title: Effects of Auricular Acupressure on Korean Children Who are Obese. Abstract Source: J Pediatr Nurs. 2020 Mar - Apr;51:e57-e63. Epub 2019 Sep 9. PMID: 31514977 Abstract Author(s): Hyun Su Cha, Hyojung Park Article Affiliation: Hyun Su Cha Abstract: PURPOSE: This study aimed to examine the effects of auricular acupresure on reducing obesity in children who are obese. DESIGN AND METHODS: The study design was a randomized controlled trial design. Participants aged between 9 and 11 years were 65 children who are obese, divided into the experimental group (n = 31) and control group (n = 34). The sessions continued for 8 weeks. The participants in the experimental and control groups received auricular acupressure using ear pellets (seeds) on 5 acupoints known to beeither effective in obesity treatment or ineffective. Outcome measures included body image score, children's depression inventory, Rosenberg self-esteem scale, and anthropometric indices (waist circumference, hip circumference, BMI, etc.). RESULTS: Children in the experimental group showed significant improvement in waist circumference and hip circumference after 8 weeks compared with those in the control group (p < .001). But no statistically significant difference in body image score, depression score, or self-esteem score emerged before or after auricular acupressure in the experimental and control groups. CONCLUSIONS: Auricular acupressure using ear pellets for eight weeks was effective in decreasing waist and hip circumferences in children who are obese. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Auricular acupressure can be used as an intervention method for children to control obesity. Article Published Date : Mar 31, 2020

Abstract Title: The effect of auricular therapy on blood pressure: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Abstract Source: Eur J Cardiovasc Nurs. 2020 Jan ;19(1):20-30. Epub 2019 Oct 4. PMID: 31583887 Abstract Author(s): JiaLiang Gao, Guang Chen, HaoQiang He, Chao Liu, QingYong He, Jun Li, Jie Wang Article Affiliation: JiaLiang Gao Abstract: BACKGROUND: Although a number of clinical studies have investigated the effectiveness and safety of auricular therapy for treating hypertension, the overall evidence remains uncertain. AIMS: We aimed to evaluate the evidence for the effect of auricular therapy on blood pressure using meta-analysis methodology. METHODS: We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library databases, Clinicalkey, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Scientific Journal Database and Wanfang Database and Chinese Biomedicine for trials that compared the effects of auricular therapy to that of sham auricular therapy, antihypertensive drugs, or no intervention on blood pressure. Blood pressure values before and after treatment, magnitude of blood pressure change between baseline and post-intervention, and the efficacy rate, as outcomes, were synthesized by RevMan 5.3. Continuous outcomes were expressed as weighted mean differences, and dichotomous data were expressed as relative risks with 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS: We systematically reviewed 44 randomized controlled trials (involving 5022 patients through June 2018). Auricular acupressure plus antihypertensive drugs might be more effective than antihypertensive drugs alone in both reducing systolic blood pressure value after treatment (=464 patients; mean difference, -5.06 mm Hg; 95% confidence interval, -6.76- -3.36,<0.00001;=32%), decreasing diastolic blood pressure after treatment (=464 patients; mean difference, -5.30 mm Hg; 95% confidence interval, -6.27- -4.33,<0.00001;=0%) and the efficacy rate (relative risk, 1.22; 95% confidence interval, 1.17-1.26;<0.00001;=0%). CONCLUSION: Auricular therapy could be provided to patients with hypertension as an adjunct to antihypertensive drugs for lowering blood pressure value and achieving blood pressure targets. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2019

Abstract Title: Auricular acupressure for cancer-related fatigue during lung cancer chemotherapy: a randomised trial. Abstract Source: BMJ Support Palliat Care. 2019 Dec 13. Epub 2019 Dec 13. PMID: 31836594 Abstract Author(s): Lu Lin, Yan Zhang, Hong Ying Qian, Jia Li Xu, Cong Yan Xie, Bei Dong, Li Tian Article Affiliation: Lu Lin Abstract: PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of auricular acupressure (AA) on cancer-related fatigue (CRF), sleep disturbance and anxiety in lung cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients were recruited from the respiratory department of a general hospital and were randomised into three groups. A 9-week course of AA using Semen Vaccariae (SV) (Group A)/AA using magnetic beads (Group B)/routine care (Group C) was implemented. CRF scores were used as the primary outcome while the sleep and anxiety scores were the secondary outcomes. Analysis of variance and least significant difference t-test were used to determine the intergroup differences and paired-sample t-test was used for the intragroup comparison. RESULTS: 100 lung cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy were included. Compared with Group C, AA could significantly alleviate CRF (F:24.63, p<0.01), especially for physical and affective fatigue and Group A was more effective for managing physical fatigue than Group B in per-protocol (PP) (-1.75 (-2.69 to -0.82), p<0.01)/Intention to Treat analysis (ITT) (-1.41 (-2.39 to -0.41), p=0.01) analysis. However, AA had no effect on cognitive fatigue. Compared with Group C, only Group A produced significant improvements in sleep quality in PP analysis (-1.17 (-2.23 to -0.10), p=0.03) while it yielded negative results in ITT analysis (-0.82 (-1.74 to 0.10), p=0.08). Compared with Group C, AA could significantly reduce anxiety in PP analysis (F:9.35, p<0.01) while there was no statistical difference between Group B and Group C (-0.95 (-2.81 to 0.90), p=0.31), Group A and Group B (-1.26 (-3.12 to 0.59), p=0.18) in ITT analysis. CONCLUSION: AA can alleviate CRF of lung cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, especially for physical and affective fatigue. AA using SV is more effective for physical fatigue while AA using magnetic beads works better for anxiety. However, AA cannot improve the sleep quality. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ISRCTNregistry (ISRCTN16408424). Article Published Date : Dec 12, 2019

Abstract Title: Preliminary Effectiveness of Auricular Point Acupressure on Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathy: Part 2 Laboratory-Assessed and Objective Outcomes. Abstract Source: Pain Manag Nurs. 2019 Dec ;20(6):623-632. Epub 2019 Jun 14. PMID: 31204029 Abstract Author(s): Chao Hsing Yeh, Nada Lukkahatai, Claudia Campbell, Haris Sair, Fengzhi Zhang, Sylvanus Mensah, Courtney Garry, Jing Zeng, Changying Chen, Mariela Pinedo, Mohammad Khoshnoodi, Nancy Perrin, Thomas J Smith, Leorey N Saligan Article Affiliation: Chao Hsing Yeh Abstract: PURPOSE: To manage chemotherapy-induced neuropathy (CIN), this paper explores reliable and valid objectives measures to evaluate the treatment effects of auricular point acupressure (APA). DESIGN/METHOD: This study was a repeated-measures one-group design. Participants received four weeks of APA to manage their CIN. The laboratory-assessed and objective outcomes included quantitative sensory testing, grip and pinch strength, and inflammatory biomarkers. Wilcoxon matched pairs signed-rank tests were conducted to determine change scores of outcomes at pre- vs. post- and pre- vs. 1-month follow-up. Spearman's rho correlation coefficient was used to examine the linear association of score changes of all objective study outcomes. RESULTS: Comparing pre-and-post APA, (1) the mean score of the monofilament for all lower extremity sites tested decreased after APA, indicating sensory improvement; (2) the suprathreshold pinprick stimuli mean scores on the upper extremities increased, except the scores from the index finger and thumb; (3) the pain tolerance of thumb and trapezius areas increased; (4) decreasing IL1β (p = .05), IFNγ (p = .02), IL-2 (p = .03), IL-6 (p = .05), IL-10 (p = .05), and IP10/CXCL10 (p = .04) were observed pre-post APA. Conditional pain modulation was significantly (p<.05) associated with pain intensity (r = 0.55), tingling (r = 0.59); and IL1β concentration (r = 0.53) pre-post APA. The sustained effects of 4-week APA were observed at the 1-month follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Our study findings demonstrated the promising effectiveness of APA in the management of CIN, and these treatment effects can be assessed using reliable and valid objective measures. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: If the efficacy of APA to manage CIN is confirmed in a larger sample, APA has the potential to be a scalable treatment for CIN because it is a reproducible, standardized, and easy-to-perform intervention. Article Published Date : Nov 30, 2019

Abstract Title: Auricular acupressure: reducing side effects of chemotherapy in women with ovarian cancer. Abstract Source: Support Care Cancer. 2019 Nov ;27(11):4155-4163. Epub 2019 Feb 22. PMID: 30796521 Abstract Author(s): Ying Tsao, Debra K Creedy Article Affiliation: Ying Tsao Abstract: PURPOSE: Many women with ovarian cancer may experience adverse effects from adjuvant chemotherapy after surgery. Non-pharmacological interventions can be used to reduce these side effects. We tested auricular acupressure to reduce treatment side effects in this population. METHODS: A prospective, quasi-randomized controlled trial was carried out at a publicly-funded hospital in southern Taiwan. Thirty-four women in the intervention group received auricular acupressure at four points (Shenmen, subcortex, endocrine, and heart), three times per day for 3 min per time, for 6 weeks. Thirty-one women in the control group received routine nursing care alone. The M. D. Anderson Symptom Inventory (MDASI) was completed at four time points. RESULTS: After receiving the third cycle of chemotherapy, side effect severity was elevated among both groups. Auricular acupressure reduced side effects such as disturbed sleep (t = - 11.99; p < .001, eta squared = 0.69), fatigue (t = - 2.57; p < .01, eta squared = 0.10), and lack of appetite (t = - 2.37; p = .024, eta squared = 0.08). CONCLUSION: Auricular acupressure can reduce adverse side effects of chemotherapy in women with ovarian cancer. Future studies with a larger sample and using some laboratory-based tests (such as C-reactive protein, interleukin-6) are warranted to confirm the results. Article Published Date : Oct 31, 2019

Abstract Title: Auricular acupressure for myopia in children and adolescents: A systematic review. Abstract Source: Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2019 Oct 24:101067. Epub 2019 Oct 24. PMID: 31672461 Abstract Author(s): Haixia Gao, Lei Zhang, Jianghong Liu Article Affiliation: Haixia Gao Abstract: OBJECTIVES: To identify and assess the evidence showing the efficacy of auricular acupressure alone for myopia in children and adolescents. METHODS: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that were published until March 2019 in Pubmed, Web of Science, OVID, Foreign Medical Literature Retrieval Service, China Knowledge Resource Integrated Database, The Chinese Biological Medicine Database, Wanfang Database, and Chongqing VIP Information were searched. The quality of RCTs was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias assessment tool. RESULTS: Ten RCTs were included to be qualitatively summarized, of which 5 studies qualified for the meta-analysis of the efficacy rate in treating myopia. This review demonstrated that auricular acupressure alone was more effective than eye-drops treatment, eye exercise, and was the just as effective as needle acupuncture. CONCLUSIONS: Auricular acupressure could slow the progression of myopia in children and adolescents. However, there is a need for further studies with higher methodological quality and sufficient follow-up. Article Published Date : Oct 23, 2019

Abstract Title: Auricular acupressure for overweight and obese individuals: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Abstract Source: Medicine (Baltimore). 2019 Jun ;98(26):e16144. PMID: 31261540 Abstract Author(s): Ching-Feng Huang, Su-Er Guo, Fan-Hao Chou Article Affiliation: Ching-Feng Huang Abstract: BACKGROUND: Auricular acupressure has been used for treating obesity, but inconsistent outcomes have been reported. Moreover, systematic reviews and meta-analyses have seldom addressed the effects of auricular acupressure and duration of treatment in overweight/obese individuals. This study reviewed research articles on auricular acupressure for weight reduction, analyzed the related effects on obesity, and explored the relationships between weight reduction and treatment duration, as well as outcome variables. METHODS: We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, MEDLINE with Full Text, National Digital Library of Theses and Dissertation in Taiwan, and Airiti Library for articles up to July 4, 2018. Eight eligible trials were identified for qualitative synthesis, and one of them was excluded from quantitative synthesis. Inclusion criteria were as follows: intervention contained auricular acupressure, study subjects were overweight and/or obese, as defined by published authors, and the study design had 2 or more arms for comparison. RESULTS: Pooled analysis of the 7 remaining studies revealed that auricular acupressure alone, or with diet and/or exercise, was effective for weight reduction, particularly for decreasing body weight (BW), body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), body fat mass (BFM), and body fat percentage (BFP), compared with no treatment, sham treatment, or use of surgical tape with diet and/or exercise. However, there was no effect on hip circumference. A 12-week acupressure intervention was associated with a larger effect on lowering BW and BMI compared with 4-, 6-, and 8-week interventions. The methodologic quality of trials included in the quantitative synthesis ranged from scores 2 to 6 based on the modified Jadad scale. Additionally, this meta-analysis combined studies that used different acupoints and outcomes evaluated at different timepoints, which may have been potential sources of bias. CONCLUSION: The study results indicate that auricular acupressure is effective for weight reduction. However, further vigorous studies that use double-blind randomized controlled design are needed to verify these findings. WC, WHR, BFP, or BFM should be used as obesity-related parameters in weight reduction studies to detect changes in fat, muscle, and skeletal weight. Article Published Date : May 31, 2019

Abstract Title: Effects of auricular acupressure on obesity in adolescents. Abstract Source: Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2019 May ;35:316-322. Epub 2019 Mar 18. PMID: 31003676 Abstract Author(s): Hyun Su Cha, Hyojung Park Article Affiliation: Hyun Su Cha Abstract: BACKGROUND: and purpose: Adolescent obesity has been increasing globally, and intervention is important. This study examined the effects of auricular acupressure on reducing obesity in adolescents. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Participants were 58 obese adolescents, divided into an experimental (n = 32) and a control group (n = 26). The study design was a randomized controlled trial. Auricular acupressure using vaccaria seeds was administered to the experimental group, while placebo auricular acupressure using vaccaria seeds was administered to the control group. Sessions continued for 8 weeks. Outcome measures included body weight, abdominal circumference, hip circumference, waist-hip ratio, body-mass index, body-fat mass, body-fat percentage, triglycerides, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, serum glucose, and leptin. RESULTS: Adolescents in the experimental group showed significant improvement in total cholesterol levels and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels after 8 weeks compared with those in the control group (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Auricular acupressure using vaccaria seeds was effective in decreasing total cholesterol levels and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in adolescents with obesity. Article Published Date : Apr 30, 2019

Abstract Title: Effectiveness of Auricular Acupressure for Acute Postoperative Pain after Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Abstract Source: Chin J Integr Med. 2019 Mar ;25(3):225-232. Epub 2019 Feb 28. PMID: 30815805 Abstract Author(s): Qin Zhong, Di Wang, Ya-Mei Bai, Shi-Zheng Du, Yu-Lei Song, Jing Zhu Article Affiliation: Qin Zhong Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To identify the effectiveness of auricular acupressure (AA) in patients with acute postoperative pain after surgery by systematic review. METHODS: A search of randomized controlled trials was conducted in 5 English medical electronic databases and 4 Chinese databases. Two reviewers independently retrieved related studies, assessed the methodological quality, and extracted data with a standardized data form. Meta-analyses were performed using all time-points meta-analysis. RESULTS: A total of 26 studies with 1,682 participants were included. Results showed that compared with conventional therapy, AA significantly improved the total effective rate [risk ratio=1.25, 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.13 to 1.37, Plt;0.0001; heterogeneity: Plt;0.0001, I=85%]. In the subgroup analysis, the results changed in different follow-up time and surgery categories. The pain relief in the AA group might be the most significant at 72 h after surgery (mean difference=-0.85, 95% CI,-1.20 to-0.50, Plt;0.0001) and in abdominal surgery (mean difference=-1.15, 95% CI,-1.41 to-0.90, Plt;0.0001). Sensitivity analysis demonstrated that the results of this meta-analysis were stable. No serious adverse effects were recorded. CONCLUSION: It was recommended to provide AA to patients with acute postoperative pain. However, a more accurate estimate of the effect requires further rigorously designed large-scale and high-quality RCTs for improving acute postoperative pain after surgery. Article Published Date : Feb 28, 2019

Abstract Title: Effects of Auricular Acupressure on Women With Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Abstract Source: Gastroenterol Nurs. 2019 Jun 25. Epub 2019 Jun 25. PMID: 31246633 Abstract Author(s): Gee Youn Go, Hyojung Park Article Affiliation: Gee Youn Go Abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of auricular acupressure on bowel symptoms, stress, mental health, and heart rate variability in women with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). A quasi-experimental study design with a nonequivalent control group assessed a total sample of 56 women diagnosed with IBS according to Rome III criteria. There were 29 women in the experimental group who received auricular acupressure; 27 women were in the control group. Semen sinapis albae seeds were used to administer acupressure to four auricular points: endocrine, large intestine, lung, and Shenmen for 5 days/week for 4 weeks; the control group received no treatment. Bowel symptoms, stress, mental health, and heart rate variability were measured twice, once before and once after the intervention. Chi-square tests, t tests, and paired t tests were used for analysis. The experimental group had decreased loose stools, abdominal pain, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, stress, and heart rate variability compared with the control group (p<.05). Auricular acupressure was effective for symptom improvement in patients with IBS. Article Published Date : Jun 24, 2019

Abstract Title: Preliminary Effectiveness of Auricular Point Acupressure on Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathy: Part 1 Self-Reported Outcomes. Abstract Source: Pain Manag Nurs. 2019 12 ;20(6):614-622. Epub 2019 May 30. PMID: 31155279 Abstract Author(s): Chao Hsing Yeh, Nada Lukkahatai, Claudia Campbell, Haris Sair, Fengzhi Zhang, Sylvanus Mensah, Courtney Garry, Jing Zeng, Changying Chen, Mariela Pinedo, Mohammad Khoshnoodi, Thomas J Smith, Leorey N Saligan Article Affiliation: Chao Hsing Yeh Abstract: PURPOSE: To reduce chemotherapy-induced neuropathy (CIN)-a significant challenge among cancer patients following chemotherapy-we explored the effects of auricular point acupressure (APA), which involves needleless, acupuncture-like stimulation on specific ear points. DESIGN/METHOD: This pilot study examined the effects of a 4-week APA intervention in the management of CIN. Descriptive analysis was used to examine the changes in study outcomes. RESULTS: Fifteen participants were enrolled. Two participants dropped out because they developed new medical conditions. Thirteen participants completed the study (87% retention rate). Study participants had more severe symptoms in their lower extremities (i.e., toes, feet, soles) than in their upper extremities (i.e., fingers, wrists, elbows). After the 4-week APA intervention, the mean percentage change scores ranged from 38% (tingling) to 49% (numbness); compared to pre-intervention, the therapeutic effects of APA were sustained at the 1-month follow-up. Function in both upper and lower extremities improved after the APA intervention (≥28%) and continued to improve at the 1-month follow-up (≥36%). CONCLUSIONS: Preliminary results from this small sample provide initial evidence of the effectiveness of APA on CIN. Future studies should confirm these results using a larger sample, a comparative sham control, and an examination of the underlying physiological mechanisms of the anti-CIN effects of APA. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: APA may provide an inexpensive and effective complementary approach for the self-management of CIN. Once the seeds have been taped to the patient's ear by the provider, patients are empowered to self-manage their CIN in their own environment. Article Published Date : Jan 11, 2019

Abstract Title: Efficacy of Non-Invasive Auricular Acupressure for Treating Constipation in Leukemia Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy: A Systematic Review. Abstract Source: Complement Med Res. 2018 ;25(6):406-412. Epub 2018 Oct 30. PMID: 30372690 Abstract Author(s): Chun-Ye Chen, Xiao-Xu Lin, Xing Wang Article Affiliation: Chun-Ye Chen Abstract: BACKGROUND: The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the available evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of auricular acupressure (AA) therapy for preventing constipation in leukemia patients undergoing chemotherapy. METHODS: We searched 5 English databases and 4 Chinese databases, from their inception until August 2017. Quantitative syntheses of RCTs were conducted using RevMan 5.3 software. Study selection, data extraction, and validation were performed independently by 2 reviewers. Cochrane criteria for risk-of-bias were used to assess the methodological quality of the trials. RESULTS: Five RCTs met the inclusion criteria, and most were of low methodological quality. All RCTs compared AA + routine care with routine care alone. Our analysis found that complementary effects of AA can improve the scores of the Bristol Stool Form (BSF), the Constipation Assessment Scale (CAS), and the Patient Assessment of Constipation-Quality of Life (PAC-QOL). However, the same positive results were not found in terms of the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), the EuroQoL 5-domain (EQ-5D), and the Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale (HADS). CONCLUSIONS: Overall, as a potential safety therapy, AA may be recommended in addition to routine care including use of laxatives to prevent constipation in leukemia patients undergoing chemotherapy. In the future, more rigorous RCTs must be conducted to overcome the limitations of our existing data and to confirm the effect and safety of AA for managing constipation in leukemia patients undergoing chemotherapy. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2017

Abstract Title: Auricular Acupressure in the Prevention of Postoperative Nausea and Emesis A Randomized Controlled Trial. Abstract Source: Bull Hosp Jt Dis (2013). 2017 Apr ;75(2):114-118. PMID: 28583057 Abstract Author(s): Cynthia Feng, Jovan Popovic, Richard Kline, Jung Kim, Rafael Matos, Sarah Lee, Joseph Bosco Article Affiliation: Cynthia Feng Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Successful antiemesis contributes significantly to quality, safety, and patient satisfaction. Patients undergoing general anesthesia often experience postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). Acupressure offers a side effect-free alternative to common first-line antiemetics. Because the patient may perceive needle acupuncture as uncomfortable, acupressure is a desirable alternative for the prevention of PONV. METHODS: This study was a randomized, prospective, double-blinded clinical trial investigating the effect of acupressure in patients with a history of PONV and motion sickness. The three auricular acupressure points chosen were shen men, point zero, and the subcortex point. Rescue treatment for PONV with 4 mg intravenous ondansetron was used if the patient reported persistent nausea. A blinded observer recorded antiemetic rescue data, and postoperative analgesic use was recorded over 24 hours. Nausea, vomiting, and retching were assessed in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU). RESULTS: Using univariate analysis, we ruled out the null hypothesis of equal means as a function of intervention group (p = 0.001). Pair-wise comparisons revealed a difference between placebo and test groups (p = 0.000) and also sham and test groups (p = 0.033) where age (p = 0.048) and gender (p = 0.003) were significant covariates. DISCUSSION: Our data reveal that auricular acupressure significantly decreases nausea during the PACU stay and within the 24 hours postoperatively. It is not clear whether the intervention decreases nausea as a primary effect or as a secondary result by decreasing narcotic requirements. Also, perception of nausea may be in part subjective. This is evidenced by our results in which subjects who received sham points fared better than the placebo subjects. Article Published Date : Mar 31, 2017

Abstract Title: Auricular Acupressure Helps Alleviate Xerostomia in Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients: A Pilot Study. Abstract Source: J Altern Complement Med. 2017 Apr ;23(4):278-284. Epub 2017 Feb 13. PMID: 28191857 Abstract Author(s): Guowen Yang, Shaoqin Lin, Yuchi Wu, Shangpeng Zhang, Xiuqing Wu, Xusheng Liu, Chuan Zou, Qizhan Lin Article Affiliation: Guowen Yang Abstract: BACKGROUND: Xerostomia is one of the most common complaints in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients. This problem contributes to excess fluid intake and results in poor survival outcome. Based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory and literature studies, the authors have been practicing auricular acupressure therapy (AAT) to help patients with xerostomia. This pilot study was conducted to demonstrate the potential of AAT for xerostomia in MHD patients. METHODS: Eligible subjects who agreed to participate in this study were recruited and provided with AAT for 4 weeks. The Summated Xerostomia Inventory (SXI), as well as measurement of inter-dialytic weight gain (IDWG), daily inter-dialytic weight gain (daily IDWG), percentage of inter-dialytic weight gain (IDWG%), blood pressure, and biochemical parameters, were completed at baseline and after a 4-week intervention. RESULTS: A total of 26 eligible participants were recruited. Of them, 10 men and 16 women (Mage = 52.92 ± 11.80 years; dialysis vintage 81.86 ± 46.05 months) completed the study. After the 4-week AAT intervention, the SXI scores were significantly decreased compared with baseline (from 10.08 ± 2.26 to 9.04 ± 2.14; p < 0.05). However, the IDWG, daily IDWG, IDWG%, blood pressure, and biochemical parameters did not change significantly after the intervention. CONCLUSION: This study provides preliminary evidence that AAT may be effective in reducing xerostomia intensity for MHD patients. Article Published Date : Mar 31, 2017

Abstract Title: Efficacy of Auricular Acupressure for Chronic Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Abstract Source: Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2017 ;2017:6383649. Epub 2017 Jul 18. PMID: 28804504 Abstract Author(s): Li-Hua Yang, Pei-Bei Duan, Qing-Mei Hou, Shi-Zheng Du, Jin-Fang Sun, Si-Juan Mei, Xiao-Qing Wang Article Affiliation: Li-Hua Yang Abstract: OBJECTIVES: To identify the efficacy of auricular acupressure on pain and disability for chronic LBP by systematic review. METHODS: A search of randomized controlled trials was conducted in four English medical electronic databases and three Chinese databases. Two reviewers independently retrieved related studies, assessed the methodological quality, and extracted data with a standardized data form. Meta-analyses were performed using all time-points meta-analysis. RESULTS: A total of 7 trials met the inclusion criteria, of which 4 had the low risk of bias. The findings of this study showed that, for the immediate effect, auricular acupressure had large, significant effects in improving pain within 12 weeks. As for the follow-up effect, the pooled estimates also showed promising effect at 4-week follow-up after 4-week intervention (standardized mean difference = -1.13, 95% CI (-1.70, -0.56), P<0.001). But, for the disability level, the therapeutic effect was not significant (mean difference = -1.99, 95% CI (-4.93, 0.95), P = 0.18). No serious adverse effects were recorded. CONCLUSIONS: The encouraging evidence of this study indicates that it is recommended to provide auricular acupressure to patients with chronic low back pain. However, a more accurate estimate of the effect will require further rigorously designed large-scale RCTs on chronic LBP for improving pain and disability. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2016

Abstract Title: Effects of Auricular Acupressure Therapy on Stress and Sleep Disturbance of Middle-Aged Women in South Korea. Abstract Source: Holist Nurs Pract. 2017 Mar/Apr;31(2):102-109. PMID: 28181975 Abstract Author(s): Nam Hyun Cha, Yi Kyun Park, Sohyune R Sok Article Affiliation: Nam Hyun Cha Abstract: This study sought to examine the effect of auricular acupressure therapy on the stress and sleep status of middle-aged women in South Korea. A quasi-experimental pretest/posttest control group design was employed. The study sample consisted of 67 middle-aged women (experimental: 35 samples; control: 32 samples) in Seoul, South Korea. Auricular acupressure therapy including the auricular acupressure needle on the skin paper tape was applied on an ear for 2 weeks, 2 times per week. The acupoints were Gyogam, Sinmun, Bushin, Naebunbi, and Pijilha. For the placebo control group, only the skin paper tape without the auricular acupressure needle was applied on the same acupoints. Measures were a stress scale, cortisol level in blood, and a sleep status scale. The findings showed that there were significant differences on stress (physical: t = 2.170, P<.033; psychological: t = 2.117, P<.037), cortisol level in blood (t = 2.277, P<.025), and sleep status (t = -3.127, P<.004). Health care providers should consider providing auricular acupressure therapy as an alternative method for reducing physical and psychological stress, cortisol level in blood, and sleep disturbance of middle-aged women in South Korea. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2016

Abstract Title: Effects of Auricular Acupressure Therapy on Primary Dysmenorrhea for Female High School Students in South Korea. Abstract Source: J Nurs Scholarsh. 2016 Aug 19. Epub 2016 Aug 19. PMID: 27541067 Abstract Author(s): Nam Hyun Cha, Sohyune R Sok Article Affiliation: Nam Hyun Cha Abstract: PURPOSE: To examine the effect of auricular acupressure therapy on primary dysmenorrhea among female high school students in South Korea. DESIGN: A randomized controlled trial was employed. METHODS: The study sample consisted of 91 female high school students, with 45 participants in the experimental group and 46 in the control group in two regions of South Korea. The average age of the participants was 16.7 years, and the average age of menarche was 12.2 years. Auricular acupressure therapy including an auricular acupressure needle on skin paper tape was applied on an ear for 3 days during periods of extreme primary dysmenorrhea. The acupoint names were Jagung, Sinmun, Gyogam, and Naebunbi. For the placebo control group, only the skin paper tape without an auricular acupressure needle was applied on the same acupoints. Measures used were the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire to assess primary dysmenorrhea, and the visual analog scale to assess abdominal and back pain of participants. FINDINGS: There were significant differences on abdominal pain (t = 24.594, p<.001), back pain (t = 22.661, p<.001), and primary dysmenorrhea (t = 32.187, p<.001) between the two groups. Auricular acupressure therapy decreased abdominal pain, back pain, and primary dysmenorrhea of female high school students in South Korea. CONCLUSIONS: Auricular acupressure therapy was an effective intervention for alleviating abdominal pain, back pain, and primary dysmenorrhea of female high school students in South Korea. For feasibility of the auricular acupressure therapy in practice, it is needed to train and learn the exact positions of acupoints in ear. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Health providers should consider providing auricular acupressure therapy as an alternative method for reducing abdominal and back pain, and primary dysmenorrhea in female high school students in South Korea. Article Published Date : Aug 18, 2016

Abstract Title: The effect of auricular acupressure on nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy among breast cancer patients. Abstract Source: Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2016 Aug ;24:189-94. Epub 2016 Jul 5. PMID: 27502820 Abstract Author(s): Mohammad Eghbali, Mir Saeed Yekaninejad, Shokoh Varaei, Seydeh Fatemeh Jalalinia, Mojgan Alam Samimi, Kiarash Sa'atchi Article Affiliation: Mohammad Eghbali Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the effect of auricular acupressure in relieving nausea and vomiting among the women who received chemotherapy. METHODS: 48 women suffering from Breast Cancer and receiving chemotherapy were recruited for the study. The patients were randomly assigned into two groups of experiment and control. In the initial phase of chemotherapy, the experimental group received standard medications to control nausea and vomiting and auricular acupressure for five days. Meanwhile, the control group received only the standard medications. RESULTS: The use of auricular acupressure led to the decrease in the number and intensity of nausea and vomiting in both the acute and delayed phases in experimental group which were significantly lower than the control group (P = 0/001). CONCLUSIONS: It is suggested that nurses use this pressure technique as a complementary treatment, non - pharmacological, inexpensive, non-invasive approach for the relief of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. Article Published Date : Jul 31, 2016

Abstract Title: [Randomized Controlled Clinical Trials for Treatment of Child Amblyopia with Otopoint Pellet-pressure Combined with Chinese Medical Herbs]. Abstract Source: Zhen Ci Yan Jiu. 2015 Jun ;40(3):247-50. PMID: 26237980 Abstract Author(s): Zhi-hong Han, Min Qiu Article Affiliation: Zhi-hong Han Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To observe the clinical effedt of auricular pressure combined with Chinese herbal medicine for amblyopia. METHODS: A total of 66 child patients with amblyopia were randomly divided into Chinese herbal medicine (control) and herbal medicine+ auricular pressure (treatment) groups, with 33 patients in each group. The patients in the control group were treated with Chinese medical herbs as Danggui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis), Gouqizi (Fructus Lycii), Baijuhua (Flos Chrysanthemi), Baizhu (Rhizoma Atractylodis Macrocephalae), Shudi (Radix Rehmanniae Proeparata), Baishao (Radix Paeoniae Alba) , etc. according to syndrome differentiation, while the patients in the treatment group were treated by auricular pressure of otopoints Yan (Eye), Gan (Liver), Shen (Kidney), Xin (Heart), Mu 1 (Eye-1), Mu 2(Eye-2), and Pi (Spleen) and herbal medicines (being the same to the control group). The treatment was conducted for 6 months. After the treatment, the clinical effect, improvement degree of vision, onset time of improvement, and recurrence rate in the 3 and 6 months' follow-up visit were analyzed. RESULTS: Of the 45 and 47 eyes in the treatment and control groups, 22 and 15 were basically cured, 12 and 5 had marked improvement, 9 and 20 were improved, 2 and 7 failed in the treatment, with the effective rates being 75. 56% and 42.55%, respectively. In comparison with pre-treatment, the visual acuity in both control group and treatment group were improved (P<0. 05). The numbers of children who had improvement of visual acuity after 2 weeks, one month in the control group and treatment group were 26 and 31 eyes, 10 and 11 eyes, respectively. The recurrence rate 6 months after the treatment was 50. 00 % in the control group and 16. 28% in the treatment group. The effective rate of the treatment group was significantly superior to that of the control group (P<0. 05). CONCLUSION: Auricular pressure combined with Chinese medical herb treatment is effective in improving visual acuity, and had a higher efficacy, faster action, and lower recurrence rate in amblyopia children in comparison with simple herbal medicine treatment. Article Published Date : May 31, 2015

Abstract Title: Effects of auricular acupressure on pain reduction in patient-controlled analgesia after lumbar spine surgery. Abstract Source: Acta Anaesthesiol Taiwan. 2010 Jun;48(2):80-6. PMID: 20643366 Abstract Author(s): Mei-Ling Yeh, Mei-Yung Tsou, Bih-Yun Lee, Hsing-Hsia Chen, Yu-Chu Chung Article Affiliation: National Taipei College of Nursing, Taipei, Taiwan, R.O.C. Abstract: OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to examine the adjuvant effects of auricular acupres-sure in augmenting intravenous patient-controlled analgesia with morphine and droperidol for postoperative lumbar surgery patients in terms of postoperative pain relief satisfaction, and the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). METHODS: In this single-blind experimental study, 94 subjects were randomly assigned to the experimental group in which patients received auricular acupressure to six auricular acupoints or a control group without acupressure. Data were collected using the American Pain Society Patient Outcome Questionnaire. Descriptive analyses, t tests, chi(2) tests, Mann-Whitney tests, and the generalized estimating equation model were used. RESULTS: The experimental group had lower average pain scores than the control group, but no between-group difference was found. Analgesic dose and satisfaction were similar in both groups. The incidence of PONV was low and similar in both groups. CONCLUSION: Although this study did not demonstrate adjuvant effects of auricular acupressure on postoperative pain, analgesic dose, analgesic satisfaction and PONV, most subjects were satisfied with the pain management even though they were subjected to moderate pain because of insufficient analgesia. Further studies should reconfirm the effects of auricular acupressure on analgesia provided by intravenous patient-controlled analgesia in postoperative patients, and its influence on the frequency and duration of analgesia administration. Article Published Date : Jun 01, 2010

Abstract Title: Effects of ear acupressure in improving visual health in children. Abstract Source: Am J Chin Med. 2010;38(3):431-9. PMID: 20503462 Abstract Author(s): Ching-Hsiu Chen, Hsing-Hsia Chen, Mei-Ling Yeh, Shiow-Luan Tsay Article Affiliation: Department of Nursing, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan. Abstract: Myopia is a major health problem, not only because of its high prevalence in Asia but also because it contributes to visual morbidity. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of ear acupressure for visual improvement on school children in Taiwan. Participants were fifth-grade school children with visual acuity between 6/37.5 and 6/9.6 in one eye. The experimental group (n = 35) received a 15-week ear acupressure intervention with seed embedding; the control group (n = 35) did not. Data for demographic factors, visual acuity, refractive error, and behavior toward visual health were collected before and after the intervention. The significant differences were observed between the two groups in visual acuity (p = 0.02), refractive error (p = 0.04), and behaviors toward visual health (p = 0.045). Performing ear acupressure may facilitate improved visual health for children. However, it requires more extended studies exploring its effects on elementary students in different grades. Longitudinal effects of this intervention also require further study. Article Published Date : Jan 01, 2010

Abstract Title: Auricular acupressure may improve absorption of flavanones in the extracts from Citrus aurantium L. in the human body. Abstract Source: J Altern Complement Med. 2008 May ;14(4):423-5. PMID: 18576924 Abstract Author(s): Jue Zhou, Fan Qu, Xisheng Sang, Elizabeth Burrows, Rui Nan Article Affiliation: Jue Zhou Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To explore whether auricular acupressure could improve the absorption of flavanones in the extracts from Citrus aurantium L. in the human body. METHODS: Ten (10) healthy male volunteers were randomly divided into two groups. Group A was treated with the combination of oral administration of C. aurantium L. extracts and auricular acupressure. Group B was treated only with the oral administration of C. aurantium L. extracts in the same dosage as Group A. After 7 days of treatment, the plasma concentration of naringenin and hesperetin of the two groups were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography. RESULTS: The plasma concentration of naringenin and hesperetin in Group A were significantly higher than Group B. CONCLUSIONS: Auricular acupressure at some specific acupoints can significantly improve the absorption of naringenin and hesperetin in the extracts form C. aurantium L. in the human body. Article Published Date : Apr 30, 2008

Abstract Title: Effects of auricular acupressure on menstrual symptoms and nitric oxide for women with primary dysmenorrhea. Abstract Source: J Neurochem. 2007 Aug;102(4):1095-104. Epub 2007 Apr 30. PMID: 19292653 Abstract Author(s): Mei-Chuan Wang, Mei-Chi Hsu, Li-Wei Chien, Chien-Huei Kao, Chi-Feng Liu Article Affiliation: Department of Nursing, National Taipei College of Nursing, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China. Abstract: OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of auricular acupressure on relieving menstrual symptoms and decreasing nitric oxide (NO) for women with primary dysmenorrhea. DESIGN: This was a randomized clinical trial comparing the effects of auricular acupressure by seed-pressure method and placebo adhesive patch. SETTING: Settings included colleges in northern and central Taiwan. SUBJECTS: Serum CA-125 testing was used as a screening test for primary dysmenorrhea (<35 mg/dL). The study included 36 college females randomized to acupressure group, 35 to control group. INTERVENTIONS: The acupressure group received auricular acupressure by seed-pressure method on liver (CO12), kidney (CO10), and endocrine (CO18) acupoints. The control group had a plain adhesive patch placed on the same acupoints with no seed attached. Acupressure protocol included massaging 15 times on each acupoint, 3 times a day, for a total of 20 days. OUTCOME MEASURES: Primary: Short-form Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQs). Secondary: blood sample of NO. Assessments of MDQs and NO were performed at baseline and within the first 2 days of their next menses (after completion of 20 days of acupressure). RESULTS: In the acupressure group, the overall menstrual symptoms (95% confidence interval [CI] = -49.8 to -6.5, effect size [ES] = 0.43, p = 0.01) and two subscales, menstrual pain (95% CI = -16.4 -to -2.2, ES = 0.45, p = 0.01) and negative affects (95% CI = -11.9-2.0, ES = 0.38, p = 0.04), revealed that menstrual symptoms decreased significantly after auricular acupressure by the seed-pressure method. The ES for the MDQs were in favor of the auricular acupressure by seed-pressure method. NO level increased in the acupressure group, although this difference did not achieve statistical significance (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: This study supports the effects of auricular acupressure by seed-pressure method in improving menstrual symptoms, and offers a noninvasive complementary therapy for women with primary dysmenorrhea. Article Published Date : Aug 01, 2007