Can traditional acupuncture be incorporated as an effect treatment modality with patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease? A four patient case study
By Jacqueline Clelland - MSc in Acupuncture
Abstract
Previous research has utilised objective outcome measures to demonstrate the effectiveness of acupuncture for patients suffering from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), though few have incorporated the concepts of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) into their diagnosis and treatment methods. The following clinical study differed from previous studies in using the case study design, incorporating the principles of TCM, and involving both quantities and qualitative methods. It appraised four patients with varying degrees and pulmonary dysfunction and an average duration of 55 years. Prescribed Western Medicine (WM) so that their integration could be evaluated for the prospective management of COPD.
The study covered 12 months, from January 2000 to December 2000. A total of 15 acupuncture treatments were given during the first 6 months. Quantitative methods included assessments of Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR); Spirometry (FVC; FEV1), and “Measure Your Medical Outcome Profile” MYMOP, which were taken at regular intervals during treatment and in the follow-up period. Qualitative data was based on records of patient feedback.
The results of the study demonstrated small though clinically noteworthy increases in PEFR, with Spirometry being variable. Of the volunteers involved 2 out of 4 showed improvements in PEFR by the 15th treatment. Spirometry (from baseline) demonstrated 1 patient with marked improvement; 2 patients showed small but positive changes; and 1 showed deterioration. MYMOP questionnaires established that overall the patients felt that their most distressing symptoms had lessened and their general well being had improvement. Therefore, it would appear that the inclusion of TCM acupuncture into the WM management of COPD would be beneficial to patients.
This study would indicate the need for further research in this disease area though on a much larger scale and over a longer treatment period.
