Article

Effects of Acupuncture and Acupressure on Cancer-Related Fatigue: A Systematic Review

Wai-man Ling

Liza Y. Y. Lui

Winnie K. W. So

Kuen Chan

fatigue, cancer, acupuncture, acupressure, systematic review
ONF 2014, 41(6), 581-592. DOI: 10.1188/14.ONF.581-592

Purpose/Objectives: To critically examine the evidence for acupuncture and acupressure in the management of cancer-related fatigue (CRF) in adult patients with cancer.

Data Sources: 18 databases were searched for randomized, controlled trials published in English and Chinese through April 2014.

Data Synthesis: Given the heterogeneity of data, meta-analysis was not conducted. A six-step thematic analysis method was used to synthesize the results.

Conclusions: Although results are inconclusive, acupuncture and acupressure tend to be effective in relieving CRF, with the former producing a greater improvement. Future research is recommended to contribute further evidence.

Implications for Nursing: Nurses should know about the relative effectiveness of acupuncture and acupressure in the management of CRF to educate and support their patients.

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