Ling, W., Lui, L.Y.Y., So, W.K.W., & Chan, K. (2014). Effects of acupuncture and acupressure on cancer-related fatigue: A systematic review. Oncology Nursing Forum, 41, 581–592.
PHASE OF CARE: All phases
Seven out of eight acupuncture studies showed improvement in CRF, but only four reached statistic significance. All four acupressure studies showed significant improvement. The four studies that showed improvement during initial treatment determined that results could be maintained for as many as 12 weeks. However, the maintenance study did not determine any extra benefit. Three studies reported no side effects. In other studies, adverse events were identified as minor and transient. Four studies used acupressure. These showed positive results. However, three studies were underpowered, and the comparability of study groups was questionable.
Acupuncture and acupressure may be helpful in reducing fatigue. However, because of multiple methodologic flaws in studies reviewed, no firm conclusions can be made regarding the effectiveness of these interventions.
Acupuncture and acupressure appear to be safe and may be effective. Therefore, this intervention may be suggested for patients with CRF. Additional research is needed to confirm their effectiveness.