Acupressure for the treatment of musculoskeletal pain conditions: A systematic review

Background: Acupressure involves pressing acupuncture points with a finger or a device and can be used for treating several musculoskeletal pain conditions, including osteoarthritis, lower back pain [LBP], and rheumatoid diseases. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the effectiveness of acupressure for the treatment of musculoskeletal pain. Findings: A total of 180 relevant articles were identified, and four randomized controlled trials [RCTs] met our inclusion criteria. Two of these RCTs tested the effects of acupressure compared to routine therapies in patients with chronic LBP. Pain was significantly reduced in patients treated with acupressure compared to control [untreated] patients. One RCT compared acupressure using electrical stimulation to conventional treatment and reported favorable effects on pain reduction and function in patients with nonspecific sub-acute LBP. Another RCT tested acupressure using aroma oil on pain conditions compared to conventional treatment and showed favorable effects in patients with neck pain. Conclusion: Our results provide limited evidence for the effectiveness of acupressure in the treatment of LBP and neck pain. However, the methodological caveats prevented us from drawing definitive conclusions. © 2012 Informa Healthcare USA, Inc.