ORCID Profile
0000-0002-4171-7935
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Southern Cross University
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Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2017.09.009
Abstract: Influenza and pneumococcal vaccination is recommended for all adults, with older adults considered a high-risk group for targeted intervention. As such it is important for factors affecting vaccine uptake in this group to be examined. Complementary medicine (CM) use has been suggested as a possible factor associated with lower vaccination uptake. To determine if associations exist between influenza and pneumococcal vaccine uptake in older Australian women and the use of CM, data from women aged 62-67years surveyed as part of the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH) were analyzed in 2013 regarding their health and health care utilization. Associations between the uptake of influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations and the use of CM were analyzed in 2016 using chi-squared tests and multiple logistic regression modelling. Of the 9151 women, 65.6% and 17.7% reported that they had influenza and pneumococcal vaccination within the past 3years respectively. Regression analyses show that women who consulted naturopaths/herbalists (OR=0.64) and other CM practitioners (OR=0.64) were less likely to have vaccination (influenza only), as were women who used yoga (OR=0.77-0.80) and herbal medicines (OR=0.78-0.83) (influenza and pneumococcal). Conversely, women using vitamin supplements were more likely to receive either vaccination (OR=1.17-1.24) than those not using vitamin supplements. The interface between CM use and influenza and pneumococcal vaccination uptake in older women appears complex, multi-factorial and often highly in idualized and there is a need for further research to provide a rich examination of the decision-making and motivations of stakeholders around this important public health topic.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 12-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.JPSYCHORES.2017.07.013
Abstract: To examine the relationship between yoga/meditation practice and health behavior in Australian women. Women aged 19-25years, 31-36years, and 62-67years from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH) were surveyed regarding smoking, alcohol or drug use, physical activity and dietary behavior and whether they practiced yoga/meditation on a regular basis. Associations of health behaviors with yoga/meditation practice were analyzed using multiple logistic regression modelling. 11,344, 8200, and 9151 women aged 19-25years, 31-36years, and 62-67years, respectively, were included of which 29.0%, 21.7%, and 20.7%, respectively, practiced yoga/meditation. Women practicing yoga/meditation were significantly more likely to report at least moderate physical activity levels (OR=1.50-2.79), to follow a vegetarian (OR=1.67-3.22) or vegan (OR=2.26-3.68) diet, and to report the use of marijuana (OR=1.28-1.89) and illicit drugs in the last 12 months (OR=1.23-1.98). Yoga/meditation practice was associated with higher physical activity levels, a higher likelihood of vegetarian or vegan diet use, and a higher likelihood of drug use. While health professionals should keep the potential vulnerability of yoga/meditation practitioners to drug use in mind, the positive associations of yoga/meditation with a variety of positive health behaviors warrant its consideration in preventive medicine and healthcare.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 29-07-2019
Abstract: To determine the effectiveness and safety of yoga interventions on disease symptoms, quality of life and function in patients diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Medline/PubMed, Scopus, and CENTRAL (Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) were searched through 6 June 2019. Randomized controlled trials assessing the effects of yoga on quality of life, dyspnea, exercise capacity, and pulmonary function (FEV1) in patients with COPD were included. Safety was defined as secondary outcome. Mean differences (MD) and standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane tool. Eleven randomized controlled trials with a total of 586 patients were included. Meta-analysis revealed evidence for effects of yoga compared to no treatment on quality of life on the COPD Assessment Test (MD = 3.81 95% CI = 0.97 to 6.65 P = 0.009, I 2 = 70%), exercise capacity assessed by the 6-minute walk test (MD = 25.53 m 95% CI = 12.16 m to 38.90 m P = 0.001, I 2 = 0%), and pulmonary function assessed by FEV1 predicted (MD = 3.95% 95% CI = 2.74% to 5.17% P 0.001, I 2 = 0%). Only the effects on exercise capacity and pulmonary function were robust against methodological bias. Effects were only present in breathing-focused yoga interventions but not in interventions including yoga postures. Adverse events were reported infrequently. This meta-analysis found robust effects of yoga on exercise capacity and pulmonary function in patients with COPD. Yoga, specifically yoga breathing techniques, can be an effective adjunct intervention for patients with COPD. Yoga’s safety needs to be assessed in more depth in future studies.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.CTIM.2018.09.027
Abstract: Little is known about women's use of health services affected by headache or migraine during pregnancy. This paper directly addresses the research gap reporting on the healthcare utilization among Australian pregnant women experiencing headache or migraine. In this retrospective observational study, data on 1,835 Australian pregnant women were obtained from the nationally-representative Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health. Information on quality of life and health seeking behaviors regarding conventional medicine and complementary and alternative medicine providers was identified among these participants. Factors associated with healthcare use were analyzed using regression analyses. A total of 16% of the pregnant women surveyed experienced headache or migraine, and over 20% sought help from more than two types of healthcare practitioners for their headache or migraine. General practitioners (37.8%) were the most commonly consulted providers of pregnant women for their headache or migraine. Women with headache or migraine during pregnancy had worse health-related quality of life than those without. Education level and private health insurance status of pregnant women are the predictors of the use of healthcare practitioners for their management of headache or migraine (both p < 0.05). Headache or migraine during pregnancy significantly impacts upon pregnant women's quality of life. The use of multiple healthcare practitioners, including conventional medicine and complementary and alternative medicine practitioners, highlights the need for further research investigating health services utilization of pregnant women with headache or migraine in different severity and frequency to help inform effective and safe treatment.
Publisher: S. Karger AG
Date: 2014
DOI: 10.1159/000357368
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 05-2013
Publisher: Medical Journals Sweden AB
Date: 2014
Abstract: To determine factors, including pain intensity, associated with pressure pain sensitivity in chronic non-specific neck pain and with changes after therapeutic interventions. This re-analysis used pooled data from 7 randomized controlled clinical trials. Pressure pain thresholds were assessed at the hand and at the site of maximal pain in the neck region before and after different non-pharmacological interventions. Age, gender, neck pain intensity and duration, mental health, expectancy and time interval between measurements were used to determine factors influencing pressure pain thresholds as well as pressure pain threshold changes. A total of 346 patients (77 males, 269 females, mean age 52.6 years (standard deviation 12.0 years)) were included in study, 306 of whom provided a complete data-set for analysis. Pressure pain thresholds at the neck area or the hand did not correlate with pain intensity. Changes in pressure pain thresholds correlated with time between measurements, indicating time-sensitive changes. No coherent correlations between pressure pain thresholds and pain intensity were found. Further research is needed to evaluate the relationship between pain intensity and pressure pain thresholds before its use as a valid substitute of pain rating can be supported. Until then, the results of trials with respect to using pressure pain thresholds as an outcome variable must be interpreted with care.
Publisher: S. Karger AG
Date: 2014
DOI: 10.1159/000358577
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2018
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.CTIM.2017.11.018
Abstract: Chronic neck pain is a common problem that affects approximately half of the population. Conventional treatments such as medication and exercise have shown limited analgesic effects. This analysis is based on an original study that was conducted to investigate the physical and behavioral effects of a 9-week Iyengar yoga course on chronic non-specific neck pain. This secondary analysis uses linear mixed models to investigate the in idual trajectories of pain intensity in participants before, during and after the Iyengar yoga course. Participants with chronic non-specific neck pain were selected for the study. The participants suffered from neck pain for at least 5 days per week for at least the preceding 3 months, with a mean neck pain intensity (NPI) of 40 mm or more on a Visual Analog Scale of 100 mm. The participants were randomized to either a yoga group (23) or to a self-directed exercise group (24). The mean age of the participants in the yoga group was 46, and ranged from 19 to 59. The participants in the yoga group participated in an Iyengar yoga program designed to treat chronic non-specific neck pain. Our current analysis only includes participants who were initially randomized into the yoga group. The average weekly neck pain intensity at baseline, during and post intervention, comprising 11 total time points, was used to construct the growth models. We performed a step-up linear mixed model analysis to investigate change in NPI during the yoga intervention. We fit nested models using restricted maximum-likelihood estimation (REML), tested fixed effects with Wald test p-values and random effects with the likelihood ratio test. We constructed 10 REML models. The model that fit the data best was an unconditional random quadratic growth model, with a first-order auto-regressive structure specified for the residual R matrix. Participants in the yoga group showed significant variation in NPI. They demonstrated variation in their intercepts, in their linear rates of change, and most tellingly, in their quadratic rates of change. While all participants benefitted from the yoga intervention, the degree to which they benefitted varied. Additionally, they did not experience a consistent rate of reduction in NPI - their NPI fluctuated, either increasing and then decreasing, or vice-versa. We comment on the clinical and research implications of our findings.
Publisher: S. Karger AG
Date: 2018
DOI: 10.1159/000493612
Abstract: b i Einleitung: /i /b Die Diagnose und Behandlung von Krebserkrankungen gehen häufig mit körperlichen und psychosozialen Beeinträchtigungen einher. Viele Krebspatienten wünschen Komplementärmedizin wie z.B. die Mind Body Medicine. b i Konzept: /i /b Die Klinik für Naturheilkunde und Integrative Medizin an den Kliniken Essen-Mitte bietet Mind Body Medicine, basierend auf dem «Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program» (Stressreduktion durch Achtsamkeit) und dem Mind-Body-Krebsmedizinprogramm des Harvard Mind-Body Medical Institute, im Rahmen einer Tagesklinik für Krebspatienten an. Das Programm umfasst Achtsamkeitstraining, Yoga, achtsame Körperübungen, Ernährung, naturheilkundliche Selbsthilfestrategien und kognitive Umstrukturierungen. b i Fälle: /i /b Zwei Patientinnen, die an dem Tagesklinikprogramm teilgenommen haben, werden vorgestellt. Eine Patientin litt an Angst und Depressivität nach einer kürzlich diagnostizierten Brustkrebserkrankung, die andere an psychischen Beeinträchtigungen infolge mehrfacher Exzisionen von Nävi nach chirurgischer Entfernung eines malignen Melanoms. Bei beiden Patientinnen war Besserung im Hinblick auf Angst und weitere psychische Symptome festzustellen. b i Schlussfolgerung: /i /b Das onkologisch-naturheilkundliche Mind Body Medicine-Programm an den Klinischen Essen-Mitte scheint psychische Folgen von Krebs und seiner Behandlung zu lindern. Weitere Untersuchungen und randomisierte kontrollierte Studien sind notwendig, um diese Ergebnisse zu bestätigen. Übersetzung aus Integrative Cancer Therapies 2013 :503-507
Publisher: American College of Physicians
Date: 25-04-2017
DOI: 10.7326/M16-1997
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.CTIM.2018.05.003
Abstract: A range of health-care professionals including chiropractors provide treatment for sports-related health problems. This study reports analyses from the first national workforce survey to determine practitioner and practice-related factors associated with the frequent treatment of athletes or sports people by Australian chiropractors. A 21-item questionnaire collecting information pertaining to practitioner and practice-related characteristics was distributed to all Australian registered chiropractors, as part of the Australian Chiropractic Research Network (ACORN) project and attracted a response rate of 43% (n = 2005). Statistical analyses compared the frequency of treating athletes or sports people against a wide range of relevant practitioner and practice characteristics. Of the respondents, 49.5% (n = 936) reported frequently treating athletes or sports people, and these chiropractors were more likely to be male as well as report more patient care hours and patient visits per week than those chiropractors who did not frequently treat athletes or sports people. Chiropractors who frequently treat athletes or sports people were also more likely to perform multi-modal management, have multi-disciplinary practitioner relations, use diagnostic equipment and discuss nutrition and medication use as part of their patient care than those chiropractors who did not frequently treat athletes or sports people. Nearly half of participating Australian chiropractors treat athletes or sports people frequently. The current and potential role of chiropractors in sports medicine appears significant. Further research is needed to examine the role, practices and outcomes of such chiropractic care helping to, provide treatment and policy development in this area of clinical management.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2016
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 06-2013
Abstract: This study investigated the perceived influence of yoga on body perception and psychosocial aspects of life for patients with chronic neck pain. This qualitative study was conducted using semistandardized interviews. The interventions and interviews took place in a referral center's research department. Eighteen (18) patients with chronic nonspecific neck pain were recruited from a larger randomized controlled trial of yoga for chronic neck pain. Participants attended 90 minutes of Iyengar yoga once a week for 9 weeks. Participants completed a drawing of their neck and shoulder regions to reflect their subjective body perceptions before and after their yoga program. Semistandardized interviews were used to explore their body perception, emotional status, everyday life and coping skills, as well as any perceived changes in these dimensions postparticipation. An interdisciplinary group analyzed the study data using content analysis techniques. Participants reported change on five dimensions of human experience: physical, cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and social. Physically, most participants cited renewed body awareness, both during their yoga practice and in their daily lives. Such change was echoed in their postparticipation body drawings. Cognitively, participants reported increased perceived control over their health. Emotionally, they noted greater acceptance of their pain and life burdens. Behaviorally, they described enhanced use of active coping strategies. Finally, socially, they reported renewed participation in an active life. Participants linked yoga to change on all dimensions of human experience, attributing reduced pain levels, increased coping ability, better pain acceptance and increased control to it. Body awareness appeared a key mechanism in these changes.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 05-2016
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 07-06-2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2012
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2019
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 14-08-2022
DOI: 10.3390/JCM11164751
Abstract: Background: Lifestyle interventions, such as fasting, diet, and exercise, are increasingly used as a treatment option for patients with metabolic syndrome (MS). This study assesses the efficacy and safety of fasting followed by lifestyle modification in patients with MS compared to lifestyle modification only. Methods: Single-blind, multicenter, parallel, randomized controlled trial in two German tertiary referral hospitals in metropolitan areas. Interventions: (a) 5-day fasting followed by 10 weeks of lifestyle modification (modified DASH diet, exercise, mindfulness n = 73) (b) 10 weeks of lifestyle modification only (n = 72). Main outcomes and measures: Co-primary outcomes were ambulatory systolic blood pressure and the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) index at week 12. Further outcomes included anthropometric, laboratory parameters, and the PROCAM score at weeks 1, 12, and 24. Results: A total of 145 patients with metabolic syndrome (62.8% women 59.7 ± 9.3 years) were included. No significant group differences occurred for the co-primary outcomes at week 12. However, compared to lifestyle modification only, fasting significantly reduced HOMA index (Δ = −0.8 95% confidence interval [CI] = −1.7, −0.1), diastolic blood pressure (Δ = −4.8 95% CI = −5.5, −4.1), BMI (Δ = −1.7 95% CI = −2.0, −1.4), weight (Δ = −1.7 95% CI = −2.0, −1.4), waist circumference (Δ = −2.6 95% CI = −5.0, −0.2), glucose (Δ = −10.3 95% CI = −19.0, −1.6), insulin (Δ = −2.9 95% CI = −5.3, −0.4), HbA1c (Δ = −0.2 95% CI = −0.4, −0.05 ), triglycerides (Δ = −48.9 95% CI = −81.0, −16.9), IL−6 (Δ = −1.2 95% CI = −2.5, −0.005), and the 10-year risk of acute coronary events (Δ = −4.9 95% CI = −9.5, −0.4) after week 1. Fasting increased uric acid levels (Δ = 1.0 95% CI = 0.1, 1.9) and slightly reduced eGRF (Δ = −11.9 95% CI = −21.8, −2.0). Group differences at week 24 were found for weight (Δ = −2, 7 95% CI = −4.8, −0.5), BMI (Δ = −1.0 95% CI = −1.8, −0.3), glucose (Δ = −7.7 95% CI = −13.5, −1.8), HDL (Δ = 5.1 95% CI = 1.5, 8.8), and CRP (Δ = 0.2 95% CI = 0.03, 0.4). No serious adverse events occurred. Conclusions: A beneficial effect at week 24 was found on weight fasting also induced various positive short-term effects in patients with MS. Fasting can thus be considered a treatment for initializing lifestyle modification for this patient group however, it remains to be investigated whether and how the multilayered effects of fasting can be maintained in the medium and longer term.
Publisher: S. Karger AG
Date: 2013
DOI: 10.1159/000355634
Abstract: b i Background: /i /b Several trials have shown that cupping might be an effective treatment for chronic nonspecific neck pain, but little is known about the long-term effectiveness. This study aimed to investigate long-term effects of a short series of cupping therefore additional follow-up measurements were conducted 2 years after completion of 3 studies. b i Patients and Methods: /i /b Participants from 3 randomized waitlist controlled trials on cupping for chronic nonspecific neck pain were followed 2 years after treatment. Outcome measures included neck pain intensity (100 mm Visual Analog Scale VAS), functional disability (Neck Disability Index, NDI), and health-related quality of life (Short Form 36 Health Survey Questionnaire SF-36). b i Results: /i /b of 150 patients had received cupping treatment and were contacted 82 of them (61.7%) returned the follow-up questionnaires. No effect was found for neck pain intensity, but for physical function (& #x2206 NDI: -3.15 95% CI: -5.89 -0.41 p = 0.025) and quality of life (& #x2206 physical component summary: 2.97 95% CI: 0.97 4.97 p = 0.004 & #x2206 bodily pain: 14.53 95 % CI: 9.67 19.39 p 0.001). Mean duration of cupping effect was 8.9 ± 8.7 months with 16 patients reporting that neck pain had not yet reached the level before cupping. The majority of the patients did not continue cupping therapy, mostly due to lack of providers, costs or loss of interest. b i Conclusions: /i /b A series of cupping treatments did not influence neck pain intensity on the longer term, however significant increases were found for physical function and quality of life in patients with chronic nonspecific neck pain. Due to the considerable drop-out rate conclusions are limited. There is evidence suggesting that cupping treatment might have sustainable effects in some patients. Further randomized controlled trials with long-term follow-up are urgently needed for conclusive judgment of long-term effectiveness.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 2012
DOI: 10.1155/2012/863905
Abstract: Objectives . To systematically review and meta-analyze the effectiveness of yoga for menopausal symptoms. Methods . Medline, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, and PsycINFO were screened through April 2012. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included if they assessed the effect of yoga on major menopausal symptoms, namely, (1) psychological symptoms, (2) somatic symptoms, (3) vasomotor symptoms, and/or (4) urogenital symptoms. For each outcome, standardized mean differences (SMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Two authors independently assessed risk of bias using the risk of bias tool recommended by the Cochrane Back Review Group. Results . Five RCTs with 582 participants were included in the qualitative review, and 4 RCTs with 545 participants were included in the meta-analysis. There was moderate evidence for short-term effects on psychological symptoms ( SMD = − 0.37 95% CI −0.67 to −0.07 P = 0.02 ). No evidence was found for total menopausal symptoms, somatic symptoms, vasomotor symptoms, or urogenital symptoms. Yoga was not associated with serious adverse events. Conclusion . This systematic review found moderate evidence for short-term effectiveness of yoga for psychological symptoms in menopausal women. While more rigorous research is needed to underpin these results, yoga can be preliminarily recommended as an additional intervention for women who suffer from psychological complaints associated with menopause.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.CTIM.2014.09.007
Abstract: Determining efficacy in complementary medicine research requires valid placebo/sham control groups that are credible to patients and ensure successful blinding. Within the scope of this study, a light touch sham-control intervention for trials of Craniosacral Therapy (CST) was developed and tested for its credibility. Patients of a randomized controlled trial on chronic non-specific neck pain (NCT01526447) obtained the Credibility/Expectancy Questionnaire and the Helping Alliance/Satisfaction Questionnaire. Treatment and sham group respectively received 8 weekly sessions of CST or light touch. Data without (N=50) and with multiple imputation (N=54) were analyzed separately using logistic regression models. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated to assess whether group outcome could be predicted from patients' credibility ratings. An additional t-test for analysis of the overall compliance/attendance was conducted. Patients' ratings of treatment expectancy, credibility and therapeutic alliance were not found to have significant power for classifying patients into CST or sham group (p≥.05). Only satisfaction with treatment revealed a significant impact (AOR: 6.83 95% CI: [1.54|30.24] p=.011) in the non-imputed analysis, but not in the multiple imputation analysis (AOR: 4.09 95% CI: [0.94|17.76] p=.060). Compliance of both groups was not significantly different (p>.05) as were reasons for non-attendance. No serious adverse events were reported. Patients' expectancy, credibility and therapeutic alliance did not appear to affect study outcomes, blinding patients to group allocation was possible, and sham intervention was tolerable and safe. The design can therefore be recommended as control for non-specific treatment effects in future CST clinical trials.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2012
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-09-2015
DOI: 10.1007/S11325-015-1250-7
Abstract: Sleeping problems and fatigue in pregnancy are often accepted as a normal part of pregnancy however, these conditions can be linked to serious consequences for both the mother and child. Despite established links between sleeping disturbance and a wide range of pregnancy complications, little is known about the health-care utilisation of women experiencing sleeping problems and fatigue. This study addresses the existing gap in the literature by examining cross-sectional data to identify health service utilisation patterns of pregnant women experiencing sleeping problems and/or tiredness or fatigue. In 2010, a sub-study of the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health was conducted as a cross-sectional survey of 2445 women who had recently given birth. Associations between reported symptoms of sleeplessness and/or tiredness or fatigue and health service utilisation were determined using logistic regression analysis. During their pregnancy, 15.2 % of women experienced sleeping problems while 35.4 % experienced tiredness or fatigue. Women most commonly consulted with an obstetrician (n = 96) or a general practitioner (GP) (n = 74) for their tiredness or fatigue rather than a midwife (n = 56). A substantial number of women sought help from a complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practitioner for sleeping problems (33 %) or tiredness/fatigue (28 %). Sleeping problems and/or tiredness or fatigue is reported by a reasonable percentage of pregnant women, and women obtain assistance from conventional and CAM practitioners for their symptoms, but not all seek help. Given the serious implications of untreated sleep- and fatigue-related symptoms for mother and baby, this area of research deserves and requires more attention.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2020
Publisher: Georg Thieme Verlag KG
Date: 04-03-2013
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-12-2019
DOI: 10.1002/MSC.1441
Abstract: Complementary medicines and therapies (CMT) are recommended in osteoarthritis (OA) treatment guidelines however, there are few studies on CMT use in the community. The present study explored the use and perceptions of CMT for OA management in a New Zealand population. Nineteen middle- to older-aged adults with hip or knee OA, recruited from a public hospital research database, engaged in focus groups exploring CMT knowledge, factors influencing CMT use, and the role of medical professionals in the decision-making process. Participants were organized into four groups, further to explore the impact of age or OA duration on CMT use. Thematic analysis resulted in five themes, consistent across all groups: participants' perceptions of CMT reasons for taking CMT reasons for not taking CMT sources and credibility of CMT information and medical professionals' role in CMT use. Participants indicated a range of CMT use, yet were unclear what defined a product as 'CMT'. CMT use was influenced by symptom severity, previous experiences of themselves or trusted others, and perceived CMT effectiveness. General practitioners were identified as participants' preferred source of CMT information, owing to both their professional knowledge and lack of commercial gain from promoting CMT use. Participants supported CMT for OA management, based on evidence and/or experience of effectiveness. Proactive general practitioner dialogue and subsidized CMT products recommended as part of a clinical treatment plan would encourage further CMT uptake. Additionally, the development of standardized CMT terminology would facilitate patient-doctor communication regarding CMT use and promote inter-professional dialogue regarding multidisciplinary patient treatment.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2021
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-01-2017
Publisher: S. Karger AG
Date: 2015
DOI: 10.1159/000372867
Publisher: S. Karger AG
Date: 2017
DOI: 10.1159/000477720
Abstract: b i Background: /i /b The efficacy of specific interventions also of mind-body medicine is also dependent on the patients' ability to engage in these interventions and to perceive and change health-affecting attitudes and behaviors. The aim was to validate a 13-item instrument to measure (1) the patients' perception of specific attitudes and behaviors that are assumed to have a negative influence on the health situation, (2) their intention to change them, and (3) the implementation of the intended changes in their life affairs. b i Patients and Methods: /i /b Anonymous cross-sectional survey among 512 patients with chronic pain conditions (mean age 42.6 ± 11.4 years 58% women) using standardized instruments. b i Results: /i /b After the elimination of 4 items, an explorative factor analysis of the 9 remaining items indicated 2 factors that would explain 57% of the variance: Perceptions/Intentions (5 items Cronbach's alpha = 0.75) and Ability/ Implementation (4 items alpha = 0.77). Factor 2 correlated moderately to strongly with internal adaptive coping strategies (AKU) and situational awareness (CPSC), and weakly with mental health (SF-36), life satisfaction (BMLSS), and low depressive symptoms (BDI) and escape from illness (Escape). Factor 1 correlated weakly with age and adaptive coping strategies (AKU). b i Conclusions: /i /b The final 9-item Perception, Intention and Ability to Change (PIAC) scale was approved as a short, practicable and promising instrument, which should be further evaluated in the context of training and intervention programs, particularly with respect to its predictive relevance.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.JNEB.2017.04.011
Abstract: Examine the prevalence, patterns, and associated factors of using a vegetarian or vegan diet for health reasons in the US general population. Cross-sectional data from the 2012 National Health Interview Survey. Nationally representative s le (N = 34,525). Prevalence of ever use and 12-month use of vegetarian or vegan diet for health reasons, patterns of use, and sociodemographic and health-related factor associated with use. Multiple logistic regression analysis. Prevalence of ever use and 12-month use was 4.0% (n = 1,367) and 1.9% (n = 648), respectively. Health vegetarians and vegans were more likely aged 30-65 years, female, not Hispanic, from the Western US region, at least high school educated, chronically ill, and physically active. They were less likely to be in a relationship, overweight or obese, or smoking, or to have public or private health insurance. Among health vegetarians and vegans, 6.3% consulted with a practitioner for special diets 26.1% followed the diet because of a specific health problem, mainly high cholesterol, overweight, hypertension, and diabetes and 59.4% disclosed the diet to their health care provider. Less than 2% of participants reported using a vegetarian or vegan diet for health reasons within the past 12 months. Despite potential benefits of plant-based nutrition, more research is warranted on the actual use and its effects and safety.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 16-01-2013
Abstract: Introduction. Cancer diagnosis and treatment are often associated with physical and psychosocial impairments. Many cancer patients request complementary and alternative therapies such as mind-body medicine. Concept. The department of internal and integrative medicine at the Essen-Mitte Clinics offer a mind-body medicine day care clinic for cancer patients that is based on the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program and the mind-body medicine cancer program of the Harvard Mind/Body Medical Institute. The program encompasses mindfulness training, yoga, mindful exercise, nutrition, naturopathic self-help strategies, and cognitive restructuring. Cases. Two patients who had participated in the day care clinic program are presented here. One patient presented with anxiety and depression after recently diagnosed breast cancer and the other with psychological impairments as a result of multiple nevi excision after malignant melanoma surgery. Both patients improved in terms of anxiety and further psychological symptoms. Conclusions. The Essen-Mitte Clinics mind-body medicine day care clinic appears to alleviate psychological consequences of cancer and its treatment. Further studies and randomized controlled trials are necessary to confirm these results.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.JBMT.2016.04.008
Abstract: The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is commonplace in Australia with massage being a popular CAM modality. This is a sub-study from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH). A total of 2120 mid-age (56-61 year old) women who consulted a CAM practitioner were invited to participate in this study. The Short-Form (SF-36) questionnaire was used to measure women's health-related quality of life. A total of 1800 women returned the questionnaire generating a response rate of 85.0%. Overall, 912 (50.7%) women visited a massage therapist in the previous 12 months. Women with lower quality of life scores in terms of bodily pain (p = 0.012) and/or emotional health (p = 0.029) were more likely to consult a massage therapist than those with higher scores. The implications of these associations are important for informing healthcare providers in providing effective and coordinated care for patients with pain and mood symptoms.
Publisher: S. Karger AG
Date: 2015
DOI: 10.1159/000398790
Abstract: b i Background/Aim: /i /b Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a frequent gastrointestinal disorder, with only limited evidence regarding self-management approaches. This study tested the efficacy of caraway oil poultices (CarO) for treating IBS. b i Methods: /i /b This randomized controlled open-label cross-over trial included three treatment periods with hot CarO and hot olive oil poultice (OlivH) or nonheated poultices (OlivC) with olive oil as control interventions. Patients applied each intervention daily for 3 weeks. The primary outcome was symptom severity (IBS-SSS) secondary outcomes included responder rates (improvement ≥50 IBS-SSS), quality of life (EQ-5D, IBS-QOL), psychological distress (HADS), adequate relief, and safety. b i Results: /i /b 48 patients with IBS were included (40 females, 53.9 ± 14.4 years). A significant difference was found for symptom severity in favor of CarO compared to OlivC (difference -38.4, 95% CI -73.6, -3.1, p = 0.033), but not compared to OlivH (difference -24.3, 95% CI -56.5, 7.9, p = 0.139). Responder rates were highest for CarO compared to OlivH and OlivC (43.9, 20.0, 18.9%, respectively). Within the CarO, 51.8% reported adequate relief compared to 23.5% (OlivH) and 25.8% (OlivC). One adverse event (gastrointestinal infection) was reported during CarO. b i Conclusion: /i /b Hot caraway oil poultices appear effective and safe, although their effects may be a result of the heat application. Patients reported highest levels of subjective benefit from caraway oil poultices, making their use appropriate in the self-management of IBS.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 06-09-2017
DOI: 10.1080/13561820.2017.1351424
Abstract: Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is an increasingly prevalent part of contemporary health care. Whilst there have been some attempts to understand the dynamics of CAM integration in the health care system from the perspective of conventional care providers and patients, little research has examined the view of CAM practitioners. This study aims to identify the experiences of integration within a conventional healthcare system as perceived by naturopaths. Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted using a purposeful s le of 20 practising naturopaths in South East Queensland, Australia to discuss their experiences and perceptions of integrating with conventional medical providers. Analysis of the interviews revealed five broad challenges for the integration of CAM according to naturopaths: competing paradigms between CAM and conventional medicine co-option of CAM by conventional medical practitioners the preservation of separate CAM and conventional medical worlds by patients and providers due to lack of formalised relations negative feedback and biases created through selective or limited experience or information with CAM and indifferent, reactive and one-sided interaction between CAM and conventional medical providers. Naturopaths support the integration of health services and attempt to provide safe and appropriate care to their patients through collaborative approaches to practice. The challenges identified by naturopaths associated with integration of CAM with conventional providers may impact the quality of care of patients who choose to integrate CAM and conventional approaches to health. Given the significant role of naturopaths in contemporary health-care systems, these challenges require further research and policy attention.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 26-06-2015
DOI: 10.1093/AJE/KWV071
Abstract: As yoga has gained popularity as a therapeutic intervention, its safety has been questioned in the lay press. Thus, this review aimed to systematically assess and meta-analyze the frequency of adverse events in randomized controlled trials of yoga. MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, and IndMED were screened through February 2014. Of 301 identified randomized controlled trials of yoga, 94 (1975-2014 total of 8,430 participants) reported on adverse events. Life-threatening, disabling adverse events or those requiring intensive treatment were defined as serious and all other events as nonserious. No differences in the frequency of intervention-related, nonserious, or serious adverse events and of dropouts due to adverse events were found when comparing yoga with usual care or exercise. Compared with psychological or educational interventions (e.g., health education), more intervention-related adverse events (odds ratio = 4.21, 95% confidence interval: 1.01, 17.67 P = 0.05) and more nonserious adverse events (odds ratio = 7.30, 95% confidence interval: 1.91, 27.92 P < 0.01) occurred in the yoga group serious adverse events and dropouts due to adverse events were comparable between groups. Findings from this review indicate that yoga appears as safe as usual care and exercise. The adequate reporting of safety data in future randomized trials of yoga is crucial to conclusively judge its safety.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.CTCP.2018.11.002
Abstract: To test the efficacy of Gua Sha therapy in patients with chronic low back pain. 50 patients with chronic low back pain (78% female, 49.7 ± 10.0 years) were randomized to two Gua Sha treatments (n = 25) or waitlist control (n = 25). Primary outcome was current pain intensity (100-mm visual analog scale) secondary outcome measures included function (Oswestry Disability Index), pain on movement (Pain on Movement Questionnaire), perceived change in health status, pressure pain threshold, mechanical detection threshold, and vibration detection threshold. After treatment, patients in the Gua Sha group reported lower pain intensity (p < 0.001) and better overall health status (p = 0.002) compared to the waitlist group. No further group differences were found. No serious adverse events occurred. Gua Sha appears to be an acceptable, safe, and effective treatment for patients with chronic low back pain. Further rigorous studies are needed to confirm and extend these results.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 05-09-2017
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 03-02-2014
Abstract: This systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) aimed to evaluate the quality of evidence and the strength of recommendation for yoga as an ancillary intervention for heart disease. Medline/PubMed, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, and IndMED were searched up to October 2013. Main outcome measures were mortality, nonfatal cardiac events, exercise capacity, health-related quality of life, and modifiable cardiac risk factors. Risk of bias, quality of evidence, and the strength of the recommendation for or against yoga were assessed according to the Cochrane Collaboration and GRADE recommendations. Seven RCTs with 624 patients comparing yoga to usual care were included. For coronary heart disease (four RCTs), there was very low evidence for no effect on mortality, for a reduced number of angina episodes, and for increased exercise capacity, and low evidence for reduced modifiable cardiac risk factors. For heart failure (two RCTs), there was very low evidence for no effect on mortality, and low evidence for increased exercise capacity, and for no effect on health-related quality of life. For cardiac dysrhythmias treated with implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (one RCT), there was very low evidence for no effect on mortality, and for improved quality, and low evidence for effects on nonfatal device-treated ventricular events. Three RCTs reported safety data and reported that no adverse events occurred. Based on the results of this review, weak recommendations can be made for the ancillary use of yoga for patients with coronary heart disease, heart failure, and cardiac dysrhythmia at this point.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.CCT.2015.02.005
Abstract: To determine whether the conclusions of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of yoga are more likely to be positive when they were conducted in India and/or when they are published in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) specialty journals. Medline/PubMed, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, IndMED, and the tables of content of yoga specialty journals not listed in medical databases were screened through February 2014 for RCTs comparing yoga interventions to non-yoga interventions. The RCTs' conclusions were classified as positive (yoga is helpful for a respective condition) or not positive and compared between RCTs that were a) conducted in India vs. outside India, and b) published in a CAM specialty journal or another type of journal. A total of 306 RCTs were included 131 from India and 175 from other countries and 84 from CAM specialty journals and 222 from other types of journals. Positive conclusions were reached in 277 RCTs (91%) with more positive RCTs being conducted in India than elsewhere (odds ratio=24.8 95% confidence interval=3.3, 184.5 p<0.001) while type of journal was not associated with the direction of the conclusions (odds ratio=1.2 95% confidence interval=0.5, 2.9 p=0.828). RCTs on yoga that are conducted in India have about 25 times the odds of reaching positive conclusions as those conducted elsewhere. Indian trials should be dealt with carefully when evaluating the helpfulness of yoga for patients in other countries and vice versa.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2015
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 24-03-2023
DOI: 10.3389/FPHAR.2023.1116077
Abstract: Introduction: Leaves of the Australian tea tree plant Melaleuca alternifolia were used traditionally by First Nations Australians for treating wounds, burns, and insect bites. Tea tree oil, the essential oil steam-distilled from M. alternifolia , is well-known for its medicinal properties, the evidence for most applications however is limited. This review aimed to critically appraise evidence from clinical trials examining the therapeutic efficacy and safety of tea tree oil on outcomes. Methods: Randomized controlled trials with participants of any age, gender, or health status, comparing tea tree oil to any control were included, without limit on publication date. Electronic databases were searched on 12 August 2022 with additional records sourced from article reference sections, reviews, and industry white papers. Risk of bias was assessed by two authors independently using the Cochrane risk-of-bias 1.0 tool. Results were summarized and synthesized thematically. Results: Forty-six articles were eligible from the following medical fields ( Dentistry n = 18, Dermatology n = 9, Infectious disease n = 9, Ophthalmology n = 6, Podiatry n = 3 and Other n = 1). Results indicate that oral mouthwashes with 0.2%–0.5% tea tree oil may limit accumulation of dental plaque. Gels containing 5% tea tree oil applied directly to the periodontium may aid treatment of periodontitis as an adjunctive therapy to scaling and root planing. More evidence is needed to confirm the benefits of tea tree oil for reducing acne lesions and severity. Local anti-inflammatory effects on skin, if any, also require further elucidation. Topical tea tree oil regimens show similar efficacy to standard treatments for decolonizing the body from methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus , although intra-nasal use of tea tree oil may cause irritation to mucous membranes. Tea tree oil with added iodine may provide an effective treatment for molluscum contagiosum lesions in young children. More evidence on efficacy of tea tree oil-based eyelid wipes for Demodex mite control are needed. Side effects were reported in 60% of included studies and were minor, except where tea tree oil was applied topically in concentrations ≥ 25%. Discussion: Overall, the quality of research was poor to modest and higher quality trials with larger s les and better reporting are required to substantiate potential therapeutic applications of tea tree oil. Systematic Review Registration: PROSPERO, identifier [CRD42021285168].
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 12-11-2014
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 05-2014
Publisher: S. Karger AG
Date: 2012
DOI: 10.1159/000346147
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2012
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 18-11-2020
DOI: 10.1186/S12906-020-03153-6
Abstract: Australians report consulting with a naturopaths or herbalists to improve their wellbeing, yet little is known about the associations between these consultations and the patients’ health behaviours. This cross-sectional study aimed to examine the relationship between health behaviour and consultations with naturopaths or herbalists in three age cohorts of Australian women. Women aged 19–25 years, 31–36 years, and 62–67 years from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health (ALSWH) were surveyed regarding smoking, alcohol or drug use, physical activity and dietary behaviour and whether they consulted with naturopath/herbalists in the last 12 months. Associations were analysed using multivariable logistic regression. A total of 9151 (19–25 years), 8200 (31–36 years) and 11,344 (62–67 years) women were included in the analysis. Between 7.3 and 11.9% of women reported to have consulted with naturopaths/herbalists in the last 12 months. Women of all cohorts consulting with naturopath/herbalist were less likely to smoke (19-25 yrs.: Odds Ratio [OR] 0.61 31–36 years: OR 0.58 62–67 years: OR 0.29), more likely to report at least moderate levels of physical activity (19-25 yrs.: OR 1.41 31–36 years: OR 1.34 62–67 years: OR 1.34), and the use of vegetarian diets(19-25 yrs.: OR 1.40 31–36 years: OR 1.77 62–67 years: OR 2.28), compared to women not consulting with naturopaths/herbalists. Women consulting with naturopaths/herbalists however were also more likely to have used marijuana (19-25 yrs.: OR 1.18 31–36 years: OR 1.42), or illicit drugs in the last 12 months (19-25 yrs.: OR 1.24 31–36 years: OR 1.40). Consultations with a naturopath or herbalist are associated with positive health behaviours that are protective of internationally important non-communicable diseases. Psychoactive drug use is also reported among women visiting a naturopath or herbalist. Further research is needed to understand the role naturopaths play in advising patients with regards to health and non-healthy behaviours.
Publisher: S. Karger AG
Date: 2015
DOI: 10.1159/000442111
Abstract: b i Background: /i /b The aim of this review was to systematically assess the literature on herbal medicine for cough as a symptom of upper respiratory tract infections and common cold. b i Methods: /i /b The Cochrane Library, Scopus, MEDLINE/PubMed, and Embase were searched through March 2012 for RCTs testing the effects of herbal medicine for cough. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane tool. b i Results: /i /b 34 RCTs (N = 7,083) on i Pelargonium sidoides /i (11 RCTs), i Echinacea /i (8 RCTs), i Andrographis paniculata /i (6 RCTs), ivy rimrose/thyme (4 RCTs), essential oils (4 RCTs) and bakumondoto (1 RCT) were included. Controls were mainly placebo. Most studies had a low risk of bias. The meta-analysis revealed strong evidence for i A. paniculata /i (SMD = -1.00, 95% CI = -1.85, -0.15 P .001) and ivy rimrose/thyme (RR = 1.40, 95% CI = 1.23, 1.60 P .001) in treating cough moderate evidence for i P. sidiodes /i (RR = 4.60 95% CI = 2.89,7.31 P .001), and limited evidence for i Echinacea /i (SMD = -0.68 95% CI = -1.32, -0.04 P = 0.04). b i Conclusion: /i /b This review found strong evidence for i A. paniculata /i and ivy rimrose/thyme-based preparations and moderate evidence for i P. sidoides /i being significantly superior to placebo in alleviating the frequency and severity of patients' cough symptoms. Additional research, including other herbal treatments, is needed in this area.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-04-2018
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 24-09-2020
DOI: 10.3390/JCM9103087
Abstract: Patients with ulcerative colitis suffer from impaired health-related quality of life (HrQoL). Comprehensive lifestyle-modification might increase HrQoL and decrease disease activity. Ninety-seven patients in clinical remission with impaired HrQoL were randomly assigned to a 10 week comprehensive lifestyle-modification program (LSM n = 47 50.28 ± 11.90 years) or control (n = 50 45.54 ± 12.49 years) that received a single workshop of intense training in naturopathic self-help strategies. Primary outcome was HrQoL (Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire IBDQ) at week 12. Secondary outcomes included IBDQ subscales generic HrQoL disease activity and microbiome. Both groups showed improvement in HrQoL from baseline to post-treatment at week 12. The IBDQ sum score showed no significant group difference (p = 0.251). If patients attended more than 50% of the training sessions, a significant group effect (p = 0.034) was evident in favor of LSM. In addition, the SF-36 mental component summary (p = 0.002) was significantly different between the groups in favor of LSM. Disease activity microbiome and adverse events did not differ. Both a single workshop and a 10-week comprehensive lifestyle-modification program can improve HrQoL in patients with ulcerative colitis in remission with no apparent effects on clinical disease activity. A treatment difference was observed when examining a subs le of patients who attended ≥ 50% of sessions.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 15-08-2011
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.MATURITAS.2017.12.005
Abstract: To systematically review and meta-analyze the effectiveness of yoga for menopausal symptoms. Medline (via PubMed), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Scopus were screened through to February 21, 2017 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the effects of yoga on menopausal symptoms to those of no treatment or active comparators. Standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. Two authors independently assessed risk of bias using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Thirteen RCTs with 1306 participants were included. Compared with no treatment, yoga reduced total menopausal symptoms (SMD=-1.05 95% CI -1.57 to -0.53), psychological (SMD=-0.75 95% CI -1.17 to -0.34), somatic (SMD=-0.65 95% CI -1.05 to -0.25), vasomotor (SMD=-0.76 95% CI -1.27 to -0.25), and urogenital symptoms (SMD=-0.53 95% CI -0.81 to -0.25). Compared with exercise controls, only an effect on vasomotor symptoms was found (SMD=-0.45 95% CI -0.87 to -0.04). Effects were robust against selection bias, but not against detection and attrition bias. No serious adverse events were reported. Yoga seems to be effective and safe for reducing menopausal symptoms. Effects are comparable to those of other exercise interventions.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 28-07-2014
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 05-2014
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 31-03-2015
Abstract: To test the efficacy of the Alexander Technique, local heat and guided imagery on pain and quality of life in patients with chronic non-specific neck pain. A randomized controlled trial with 3 parallel groups was conducted. Outpatient clinic, Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine. A total of 72 patients (65 females, 40.7±7.9 years) with chronic non-specific neck pain. Patients received 5 sessions of the Alexander Technique - an educational method which aims to modify dysfunctional posture, movement and thinking patterns associated with musculoskeletal disorders. Control groups were treated with local heat application or guided imagery. All interventions were conducted once a week for 45 minutes each. The primary outcome measure at week 5 was neck pain intensity on a 100-mm visual analogue scale secondary outcomes included neck disability, quality of life, satisfaction and safety. Analyses of covariance were applied testing ordered hypotheses. No group difference was found for pain intensity for the Alexander Technique compared to local heat (difference 4.5mm 95%CI:-8.1 .1 =0.48), but exploratory analysis revealed the superiority of the Alexander Technique over guided imagery (difference -12.9mm 95%CI:-22.6 -3.1,p=0.01). Significant group differences in favor of the Alexander Technique were also found for physical quality of life ( P .05). Adverse events mainly included slightly increased pain and muscle soreness. The Alexander Technique was not superior to local heat application in treating chronic non-specific neck pain. It cannot be recommended as routine intervention at this time. Further trials are warranted for conclusive judgment.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.CTIM.2016.02.015
Abstract: To determine whether the odds of positive conclusions in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of yoga, differ between yoga styles. Systematic review of yoga RCTs. Medline/PubMed, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, IndMED and the tables of content of specialist yoga journals, not listed in medical databases, were screened up to 12 February, 2014 for RCTs comparing yoga interventions to non-yoga interventions. The RCTs' conclusions were classified as positive (yoga is helpful for a respective condition) or not positive and these were compared between different yoga styles using the Chi squared test and multiple logistic regression analysis. A total of 306 RCTs were included. These applied 52 different yoga styles, the most commonly used of which were: hatha yoga (36 RCTs), Iyengar yoga (31 RCTs), pranayama (26 RCTs), and the integrated approach to yoga therapy (15 RCTs). Positive conclusions were reached in 277 RCTs (91%) the proportion of positive conclusions did not differ between yoga styles (p=0.191). RCTs with different yoga styles do not differ in their odds of reaching positive conclusions. Given that most RCTs were positive, the choice of an in idual yoga style can be based on personal preferences and availability.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.JAD.2019.04.057
Abstract: The aim of this study was to determine the impact of physical activity on depression symptom severity in women 45 years and older with a chronic illness diagnosis, and explore relations between physical activity and psychological and health-related characteristics predicting depression symptoms. 1932 women diagnosed with one of five chronic illnesses: asthma, depression, diabetes, osteoarthritis, or osteoporosis participated in a sub-study of the 45 and Up Study-a cross-sectional study of people aged 45 years and older. The survey included items measuring demographics, depression symptoms, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), health-related hardiness, sleep quality, and health behaviours, such as physical activity. A multiple regression model explained 43% of the variance in depression symptoms (R Cross-sectional data and self-report measures limit the implications of the findings. Women with chronic illness engaging in more vigorous physical activity had less severe depression symptoms. Findings suggest that improving HRQoL is critical to the prevention and management of depression symptoms in women with chronic illness. Psychological and health-related factors that influence HRQoL, such as sleep quality and health-related hardiness, are important clinical considerations for health practitioners.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 03-2016
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2012
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 02-06-2017
DOI: 10.1080/07399332.2017.1337773
Abstract: In this article, we explore the use of health services and self-prescribed treatments among 8088 young Australian women with severe tiredness. Data were obtained from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health. The prevalence of severe tiredness was 49.2%. The frequency of visits to healthcare practitioners was greater among women who sought help for their severe tiredness, compared to women who did not seek help for their severe tiredness or who did not report severe tiredness. Given the impact of this health problem on Australian women, we call for further research on the optimal treatment for severe tiredness.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 05-01-2017
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Date: 29-10-2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2020
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 26-10-2018
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 17-11-2016
DOI: 10.1038/SREP37316
Abstract: This study aimed to test the efficacy of cupping therapy to improve symptoms and quality of life in patients diagnosed with the fibromyalgia syndrome. Participants were randomly assigned to cupping therapy, sham or usual care. Cupping was administered five times at twice weekly intervals on the upper and lower back. The primary outcome measure was pain intensity at day 18. Secondary outcomes included functional disability, quality of life, fatigue and sleep quality as well as pressure pain sensitivity, satisfaction and safety at day 18 and 6 months. Altogether 141 patients were included in this study (139 females, 55.8 ± 9.1 years). After 18 days patients reported significant less pain after cupping compared to usual care (difference −12.4 95% CI: −18.9 −5.9, p 0.001) but not compared to sham (difference −3.0 95% CI: −9.9, 3.9, p = 0.396). Further effects were found for quality of life compared to usual care. Patients were mildly satisfied with cupping and sham cupping and only minor side effects were observed. Despite cupping therapy being more effective than usual care to improve pain intensity and quality of life, effects of cupping therapy were small and comparable to those of a sham treatment, and as such cupping cannot be recommended for fibromyalgia at the current time.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 08-2023
Abstract: Kefir, a traditional, fermented-milk beverage, has increasingly been promoted for various health benefits. The evidence from systematic reviews, however, is limited. Evidence from randomized controlled trials testing oral consumption of fermented-milk kefir on any outcome of human health or disease. A systematic search of 4 electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database, and Cochrane Trials) from inception to July 31, 2021, was conducted. Data extraction and risk-of-bias assessments were conducted by 2 reviewers independently. A total of 18 publications reporting the results of 16 studies were included. Per the narrative analysis, fermented-milk kefir may have potential as a complementary therapy in reducing oral Streptococcus mutans, thereby reducing dental caries risk, and in Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy. Kefir may further aid treatment of adult dyslipidemia and hypertension, although evidence was very limited. Safety was only assessed in 5 of the 18 included publications, and 12 of the studies had an overall high risk for bias. Kefir is a dairy product with a unique microbiological profile that appears to be a safe for generally healthy populations to consume. However, efficacy and safety data from high-quality human trials are essential before any recommendations may be made for conditions of the oral and gastric microbiota and metabolic health. PROSPERO registration no. CRD42020211494.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 28-02-2018
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 29-07-2015
DOI: 10.1002/PON.3927
Abstract: The aim of this trial was to evaluate the effects of yoga on health-related quality of life in patients with colorectal cancer. Patients with non-metastatic colorectal cancer were randomly assigned to a 10-week yoga intervention (90 min once weekly) or a waitlist control group. Primary outcome measure was disease-specific quality of life (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy - Colorectal [FACT-C]) at week 10. Secondary outcome measures included FACT-C subscales: spiritual well-being (FACT - Spirituality) fatigue (FACT - Fatigue) sleep disturbances (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Inventory) depression and anxiety (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) body awareness (Scale of Body Connection) and body-efficacy expectations (Body-Efficacy Expectations Scale). Outcomes were assessed at week 10 and week 22 after randomization. Fifty-four patients (mean age 68.3 ± 9.7 years) were randomized to yoga (n = 27 attrition rate 22.2%) and control group (n = 27 attrition rate 18.5%). Patients in the yoga group attended a mean of 5.3 ± 4.0 yoga classes. No significant group differences for the FACT-C total score were found. Group differences were found for emotional well-being at week 22 (∆ = 1.59 95% CI = 0.27,2.90 p = 0.019), sleep disturbances at week 22 (∆ = -1.08 95% CI = -2.13, -0.03 p = 0.043), anxiety at week 10 (∆ = -1.14 95% CI = -2.20, -0.09 p = 0.043), and depression at week 10 (∆ = -1.34 95% CI = -2.61, -0.8 p = 0.038). No serious adverse events occurred in the yoga group, while liver metastases were diagnosed in one patient in the control group. This randomized trial found no effects of yoga on health-related quality of life in patients with colorectal cancer. Given the high attrition rate and low intervention adherence, no definite conclusions can be drawn from this trial.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 25-07-2017
DOI: 10.1111/HEAD.13148
Abstract: Given the safety concerns regarding pharmacological agents, and the considerable impact of headache and migraine on the sufferer's quality of life, many people seek other treatment options beyond conventional medication and care to address their symptoms this includes complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Some CAM interventions have shown promising results in clinical trials of headache and migraine management. Nonetheless, there has been little research exploring the reasons for using CAM, and the types of CAM used, among this population. The study aimed to answer the following questions: (1) Which CAM modalities are used most frequently among migraine/headache sufferers? and (2) What are the self-reported reasons for CAM use among migraine/headache sufferers? This secondary analysis of data from the 2012 U.S. NHIS (a national cross-sectional survey) examined the use of CAM among migraine/headache sufferers, including the main reasons related to CAM use. Data were weighted and analyzed using STATA 14.0. The s le of 34,525 adults included 6558 (18.7%) headache/migraine sufferers. Of the headache/migraine sufferers, a substantial proportion (37.6%, n = 2427) used CAM for various conditions however, CAM use specifically for headache/migraine was much less prevalent (3.3%, n = 216). Of those who used CAM for headache/migraine, about half used CAM in conjunction with prescription (47.8%, n = 100) or over-the-counter medication (55.1%, n = 113). As severity of headache/migraine increased so did the likelihood of using CAM (severe migraine odds ratio [OR] = 2.32 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.41, 3.82 both recurring headache/severe migraine OR = 3.36 95% CI: 2.08, 5.43 when compared to those with recurring headache only). The most frequently used CAM modality among all headache/migraine sufferers (N = 6558) was manipulative therapy (22.0%, n = 1317), herbal supplementation (21.7%, n = 1389) and mind-body therapy (17.9%, n = 1100). The top 3 reasons for using CAM for headache were general wellness (28.7%, n = 60/209), improving overall health (26.8%, n = 56/209), and reducing stress (16.7%, n = 35/209). Although CAM is used by many sufferers of headache/migraine, the use of CAM specifically for the treatment of headache/migraine is relatively low in the United States. The study also assesses the key differences of CAM use among headache/migraine sufferers in NHIS 2012 compared with those in NHIS 2007, and identifies shortfalls in the evidence-base of several CAM modalities used by U.S. adults for headache/migraine. This information may assist health providers and consumers in making informed decisions about the safest and most appropriate approach to managing headache/migraine.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 13-02-2016
Abstract: We evaluated the performance of blood and faecal biomarkers for differentiating between endoscopic inflammation and mucosal healing, and clinically active disease and sustained clinical remission, and determined the predictive value for a flare in patients with ulcerative colitis [UC]. Clinical Activity Index [CAI], faecal lactoferrin [FLA], calprotectin [CAL], PMN-elastase [PMN-e], C-reactive protein [CRP], white blood cells [WBC], Endoscopic Index [EI], and UC-Disease Activity Index [DAI] were determined repeatedly during 12 months and at acute flares. Of 91 patients [45 female mean age 48.1±13.4 years] entering in remission, 42 [46%] patients developed a clinical flare. A total of 529 CAI and 179 EI assessments were performed. Median levels for active disease confirmed by EI [n = 35] vs clinical remission with endoscopic inflammation [n = 37] vs mucosal healing [n = 107] for FLA were 44/37/4 µg/g, CAL 25/20/10 µg/g [both p < 0.0001], PMN-e 0.06/0.03/0.02 µg/g, CRP 0.7/0.2/0.2mg/dl [both p < 0.001], and WBC 7.0/6.5/6.4/nl [p = 0.1]. There was no difference for any of the markers for defining mucosal healing by EI = 0 vs EI = 1 with the exception of PMN-e [p = 0.03], where the difference was very small and with questionable clinical relevance. Using manufacturers' cut-offs, only FLA at baseline was associated with a significant higher relative risk [RR] of flaring [RR 1.69 p = 0.018]. Using optimised cut-offs, CAL, PMN-e, and CRP were also predictive of a flare. Faecal biomarkers FLA, CAL, and PMN-e were able to distinguish between UC patients with mucosal healing from clinical remission and mild disease, showed significant correlations with endoscopy, and were predictive of a flare.
Publisher: S. Karger AG
Date: 2016
DOI: 10.1159/000447467
Abstract: Herbal medicine is a promising alternative in the treatment of acute rhinosinusitis (ARS). We performed a systematic review for phytopharmaceutical treatments of ARS. A computerized search of databases (Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Scopus) up to 16 September 2015 was performed. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled trials (CTs) were included and assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Seven trials on i Pelargonium sidoides /i (EPs 7630, Umckaloabo®), Myrtol (GeloMyrtol® forte), BNO 1016 (Sinupret® extract), BNO 101 (Sinupret®), i Cyclamen europaeum /i (Nasodren®), and Esberitox® were included. Risk of bias was heterogeneous. EPs 7630 appeared to be useful in the treatment of ARS. Myrtol showed benefits against a placebo compound, and BNO 1016 and BNO 101 might be helpful however, there was little evidence for the effectiveness of i Cyclamen europaeum /i and Esberitox®. Herbal medicine might be effective for the treatment of ARS, but given the low number of clinical trials and the heterogeneous methodological quality, further research is necessary.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-05-2021
DOI: 10.1038/S41366-021-00839-W
Abstract: A systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted to synthesise evidence on the efficacy of dietary supplements containing isolated organic compounds for weight loss. Four electronic databases (Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Cinahl) were searched until December 2019. Sixty-seven randomised placebo-controlled trials of dietary supplements containing isolated organic compounds for weight loss were included. Meta-analyses were conducted for chitosan, glucomannan, conjugated linoleic acid and fructans, comparing mean weight difference post-intervention between participants receiving the dietary supplement or placebo. Statistically significant weight differences compared to placebo were observed for chitosan (-1.84 kg 95% confidence interval [CI] -2.79, -0.88 p < 0.01), glucomannan (-1.27 kg 95%CI -2.45, -0.09 p = 0.04), and conjugated linoleic acid (-1.08 kg 95%CI -1.61, -0.55 p < 0.01). None met our threshold for clinical significance (≥2.5 kg). There was no statistically significant effect on weight for fructans compared to placebo (p = 0.24). For dietary supplements with an inadequate number of trials for meta-analysis, a statistically and borderline clinically significant weight difference compared to placebo was found for modified cellulose, manno-oligosaccharides (in males), blood orange juice extract, and three multiple-ingredient dietary supplements. These were only reported in one trial of each. Thus, more evidence is needed before recommending them for weight loss. While some dietary supplements containing isolated organic compounds warrant further investigation to determine efficacy and safety, there is currently insufficient evidence to recommend any of these dietary supplements for weight loss.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2012
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 17-09-2016
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.CTIM.2013.06.001
Abstract: This paper aimed to systematically review and meta-analyze the effectiveness of Tai Chi for osteoarthritis of the knee. MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Scopus, PsycInfo and CAMBASE were screened through April 2013. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing Tai Chi to control conditions were included. Two authors independently assessed risk of bias using the risk of bias tool recommended by the Cochrane Back Review Group. Outcome measures included pain, physical functional, joint stiffness, quality of life, and safety. For each outcome, standardized mean differences and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. 5 RCTs with a total of 252 patients were included. Four studies had a low risk of bias. Analysis showed moderate overall evidence for short-term effectiveness for pain, physical function, and stiffness. Strong evidence was found for short-term improvement of the physical component of quality of life. No long-term effects were observed. Tai Chi therapy was not associated with serious adverse events. This systematic review found moderate evidence for short-term improvement of pain, physical function and stiffness in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee practicing Tai Chi. Assuming that Tai Chi is at least short-term effective and safe it might be preliminarily recommended as an adjuvant treatment for patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. More high quality RCTs are urgently needed to confirm these results.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2020
DOI: 10.1016/J.WHI.2019.09.003
Abstract: Depression is a common comorbidity in patients with cardiovascular conditions. This study aims to assess the association between comorbid depression and health-promoting behavior in middle-aged and older Australian women with hypertension or heart disease. Data are from a subset of 45 and Up Study participants with diagnosed chronic illness (n = 1,925). Health behaviors including smoking status, alcohol consumption, and physical activity were assessed. Associations of depression with health behaviors in women with hypertension or heart disease were analyzed using unadjusted and adjusted (for chronic conditions and demographic measures) logistic regression models. A total of 666 women with hypertension and 220 women with heart disease were included in the analysis. In adjusted analyses, women with hypertension and comorbid depression were 2.36 (95% confidence interval, 1.02-5.46) times more likely to be risky or high-risk drinkers and 55% (adjusted odds ratio, 0.45 95% confidence interval, 0.27-0.73) less likely to be highly physically active, compared with women without depression. Women with heart disease and comorbid depression were 65% (adjusted odds ratio, 0.35 95% confidence interval, 0.12-0.95) less likely to be highly physically active, compared with women without depression. This study provides the first data indicating that depression may be a barrier to health-promoting behavior in middle-aged and older women with hypertension or heart disease. Given that physical inactivity and risky alcohol consumption are important risk factors for aggravation of cardiologic conditions, health-promoting behaviors should be specifically targeted in the treatment of women with comorbid depression.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2018
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 16-05-2014
DOI: 10.1007/S11136-014-0714-8
Abstract: While many clinical trials suggest that meditation is effective in reducing disease-related symptoms and increasing quality of life in diseased s les, subjective health benefits associated with the use of meditation under naturalistic conditions have not yet been investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate the differences in quality of life, mental health, and satisfaction in patients with chronic diseases who regularly use meditation versus those who do not. The study applied a case-control design. Patients with chronic diseases who regularly used meditation were selected from a larger observational trial and compared to matched control patients who did not meditate regularly. They were compared in terms of their reported quality of life (SF-36 questionnaire), mental health (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), life and health satisfaction (Questionnaire for Life Satisfaction), and medication usage as well as health locus of control (German version of the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale). A total of 115 meditators and 115 controls were compared. Cases showed higher quality of life on the bodily pain subscale, higher internal and less external health locus of control, and higher life satisfaction than controls. No group differences were found for general health perception, most other aspects of quality of life, anxiety, depression, and medication use and health satisfaction. Regular practice of meditation was not clearly associated with better health perception in chronically diseased patients. However, those who regularly used meditation reported better pain-related quality of life and are more satisfied with their life.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 28-07-2021
DOI: 10.1097/J.PAIN.0000000000002416
Abstract: Yoga is frequently used for back pain relief. However, the evidence was judged to be of only low to moderate certainty. To assess the efficacy and safety of yoga in patients with low back pain, a meta-analysis was performed. Therefore, MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library were searched to May 26, 2020. Only randomized controlled trials comparing Yoga with passive control (usual care or wait list), or an active comparator, for patients with low back pain and that assessed pain intensity or pain-related disability as a primary outcome were considered to be eligible. Two reviewers independently extracted data on study characteristics, outcome measures, and results at short-term and long-term follow-up. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Thirty articles on 27 in idual studies (2702 participants in total) proved eligible for review. Compared with passive control, yoga was associated with short-term improvements in pain intensity (15 RCTs mean difference [MD] = −0.74 points on a numeric rating scale 95% confidence interval [CI] = −1.04 to −0.44 standardized mean difference [SMD] = −0.37 95% CI = −0.52 to −0.22), pain-related disability (15 RCTs MD = −2.28 95% CI = −3.30 to −1.26 SMD = −0.38 95% CI = −0.55 to −0.21), mental health (7 RCTs MD = 1.70 95% CI = 0.20-3.20 SMD = 0.17 95% CI = 0.02-0.32), and physical functioning (9 RCTs MD = 2.80 95% CI = 1.00-4.70 SMD = 0.28 95% CI = 0.10-0.47). Except for mental health, all effects were sustained long-term. Compared with an active comparator, yoga was not associated with any significant differences in short-term or long-term outcomes.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.CTCP.2019.03.001
Abstract: Yoga and meditation are predominantly utilised by healthy well-educated young women, but little is known about utilisation by older chronically ill women. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the characteristics of yoga and meditation use among middle-to-higher aged Australian women with chronic conditions. This is a sub-study of the 45 and Up Study including 1925 Australian women aged 53-95 years diagnosed with chronic conditions (asthma, depression, diabetes, osteoarthritis, and osteoporosis). Information on yoga and meditation use frequencies (categories: 'no yoga', 'at least once daily', 'at least once weekly', and 'at least once monthly'), self-perceived effectiveness and communication with health care providers were assessed via self-report. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify independent predictors of yoga and meditation use, using SPSS 24.0. Overall 6.8% and 10.7% of women reported the use of yoga and meditation respectively. Meditation was rarely practiced supervised (11.7%), compared to significant higher rates in yoga (53.2%). Predictors for yoga and meditation use were marital status (married/in relationship > not married/in relationship), higher health related hardiness, and higher education, whereas obesity, and diabetes decreased likelihood of use. While the majority found yoga and meditation helpful for their condition, the use was rarely monitored by or discussed with health care practitioners. This study finds that yoga and meditation are used by middle-to-higher aged Australian women with chronic illnesses. The lack of communication with health care providers is concerning and might hinder coordinated and effective health care around chronic illness. Further research is necessary to help understand possible concurrent health care use and thereby help inform safe, effective and coordinate health seeking amongst those with chronic illness.
Publisher: S. Karger AG
Date: 2012
DOI: 10.1159/000337688
Abstract: In conditions such as phantom limb pain and low back pain body image is distorted. This qualitative study investigates body image in patients with chronic non-specific neck pain (CNP), its influence on their everyday life and any changes linked to traditional cupping therapy. The study was conducted with a convenience s le of 6 patients with CNP from a larger randomised controlled trial (RCT) on cupping. The data came from body image drawings and semi-structured interviews. The latter were analysed using Mayring's content analysis techniques. The patients' drawings showed apparent body image distortions with elements that were missing or deformed. The interviews showed that pain was the predominant perception, influencing patients' body perception. Patients saw their pain as beyond their control, using mostly passive strategies to cope. After cupping, patients reported less pain and improved pain perception. These changes were reflected in their drawings. Patients with CNP experienced apparent body image distortions, which traditional cupping therapy appeared to improve. Additional research is needed to further explore this link.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 30-10-2019
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 05-2014
Abstract: To review the prevalence and impact of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) below the diagnostic threshold and explore its treatment needs in times of scarce healthcare resources. A systematic literature search was conducted until January 2013 using PUBMED/MEDLINE, PSYCINFO, EMBASE and reference lists to identify epidemiological studies of subthreshold GAD, i.e. GAD symptoms that do not reach the current thresholds of DSM-III-R, DSM-IV or ICD-10. Quality of all included studies was assessed and median prevalences of subthreshold GAD were calculated for different subpopulations. Inclusion criteria led to 15 high-quality and 3 low-quality epidemiological studies with a total of 48,214 participants being reviewed. Whilst GAD proved to be a common mental health disorder, the prevalence for subthreshold GAD was twice that for the full syndrome. Subthreshold GAD is typically persistent, causing considerably more suffering and impairment in psychosocial and work functioning, benzodiazepine and primary health care use, than in non-anxious in iduals. Subthreshold GAD can also increase the risk of onset and worsen the course of a range of comorbid mental health, pain and somatic disorders further increasing costs. Results are robust against bias due to low study quality. Subthreshold GAD is a common, recurrent and impairing disease with verifiable morbidity that claims significant healthcare resources. As such, it should receive additional research and clinical attention.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 11-2022
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 2014
DOI: 10.1155/2014/408436
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 25-10-2023
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 04-2023
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMEPRE.2015.07.037
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence, patterns, and predictors of yoga use in the U.S. general population. Using cross-sectional data from the 2012 National Health Interview Survey Family Core, S le Adult Core, and Adult Complementary and Alternative Medicine questionnaires (N=34,525), weighted frequencies for lifetime and 12-month prevalence of yoga use and patterns of yoga practice were analyzed. Using logistic regression analyses, sociodemographic predictors of lifetime yoga use were analyzed. Analyses were conducted in 2015. Lifetime and 12-month prevalence of yoga use were 13.2% and 8.9%, respectively. Compared with nonpractitioners, lifetime yoga practitioners were more likely female, younger, non-Hispanic white, college educated, higher earners, living in the West, and of better health status. Among those who had practiced in the past 12 months, 51.2% attended yoga classes, 89.9% used breathing exercises, and 54.9% used meditation. Yoga was practiced for general wellness or disease prevention (78.4%), to improve energy (66.1%), or to improve immune function (49.7%). Back pain (19.7%), stress (6.4%), and arthritis (6.4%) were the main specific health problems for which people practiced yoga. About 31 million U.S. adults have ever used yoga, and about 21 million practiced yoga in the past 12 months. Disease prevention and back pain relief were the most important health reasons for yoga practice. Yoga practice is associated with age, gender, ethnicity, SES, and health status.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 2012
DOI: 10.1155/2012/875874
Abstract: Introduction . The Department for Internal and Integrative Medicine in Essen utilizes mind/body medical elements in order to empower patients with chronic diseases to better cope with their symptoms and to adopt a healthy lifestyle. This study explored the influence and predictors of a 2-week integrative treatment program on patients’ quality of life. Methods . This observational study was conducted with inpatients as part of the quality assurance program. Patients’ quality of life, psychological symptoms, and health locus of control were measured on admission and discharge and again 3, 6, and 12 months after discharge. Regression analyses were conducted to determine the factors predicting improved quality of life. Results . Data from 2486 inpatients treated in 2001–2004 were included (80% female, mean age 53.9 ± 14.3 years). Response rates decreased to 50% at 12 months. Small-to-moderate effects were found on patients’ quality of life, anxiety, and depression. Patients’ internal locus of control significantly increased. Improved quality of life was mainly predicted by lower baseline scores. Conclusion . Results of this study suggest that a 2-week inpatient treatment might sustainably reduce patients’ symptoms and increase their quality of life however, conclusions are only preliminary. More research is needed to enable the effectiveness to be judged conclusively.
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 05-2014
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2016
Abstract: Mindfulness- and acceptance-based interventions are increasingly studied as a potential treatment for a variety of mental conditions. To assess the effects of mindfulness- and acceptance-based interventions on psychotic symptoms and hospitalization in patients with psychosis MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and PsycINFO were screened from inception through April 2015. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were analyzed when they assessed psychotic symptoms or hospitalization in patients with psychosis affect, acceptance, mind-fulness, and safety were defined as secondary outcomes. Eight RCTs with a total of 434 patients comparing mindfulness-based (4 RCTs) or acceptance-based interventions (4 RCTs) to treatment as usual or attention control were included. Six RCTs had low risk of bias. Moderate evidence was found for short-term effects on total psychotic symptoms, positive symptoms, hospitalization rates, duration of hospitalization, and mindfulness and for long-term effects on total psychotic symptoms and duration of hospitalization. No evidence was found for effects on negative symptoms, affect, or acceptance. No serious adverse events were reported. Mindfulness- and acceptance-based interventions can be recommended as an additional treatment for patients with psychosis.
Publisher: S. Karger AG
Date: 2011
DOI: 10.1159/000335294
Abstract: Pneumatic pulsation therapy may combine the effects of cupping therapy and massage. This study investigated the effect of pneumatic pulsation therapy on chronic neck pain compared to standard medical care. 50 patients (79.15% female 46.17 ± 12.21 years) with chronic nonspecific neck pain were randomized to treatment group (TG n = 25) or control group (CG n = 25). The TG received 5 pneumatic pulsation treatments over a period of 2 weeks utilizing a mechanical device. Treatment was applied as a combination of moving and stationary pulsating cupping. Main outcome measure was pain intensity in pain diaries (numerical rating scale). Secondary outcome measures included functional disability (NDI), quality of life (SF-36), and pain at motion. Sensory thresholds, including pressure pain threshold, were measured at pain-related sites. After the intervention, significant group differences occurred regarding pain intensity (baseline: 4.12 ± 1.45 in TG and 4.20 ± 1.57 in CG post-intervention: 2.72 ± 1.62 in TG and 4.44 ± 1.96 in CG analysis of covariance: p = 0.001), NDI (baseline: 25.92 ± 8.23 and 29.83 post-intervention: 20.44 ± 10.17 and 28.83 p = 0.025), and physical quality of life (baseline: 43.85 ± 7.65 and 41.66 ± 7.09 post-intervention: 47.60 ± 7.93 and 40.49 ± 8.03 p = 0.002). Further significant group differences were found for pain at motion (p = 0.004) and pressure pain threshold (p = 0.002). No serious adverse events were reported. Pneumatic pulsation therapy appears to be a safe and effective method to relieve pain and to improve function and quality of life in patients with chronic neck pain.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2017
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 27-09-2016
Abstract: Background Metabolic syndrome is the most important risk factor for developing cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. The aim of this review was to systematically assess and perform a meta-analysis of the effects of yoga on the parameters of metabolic syndrome. Methods MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and IndMED were searched and screened from their inception through to 8 March 2016 for randomised controlled trials on yoga for patients with metabolic syndrome. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Results Seven trials with a total of 794 participants were included. No effects of yoga on resolution of metabolic syndrome, diastolic blood pressure, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and fasting plasma glucose were found, but yoga was superior to usual care for waist circumference (standardised mean difference (SMD) = -0.35 95% confidence interval (CI) = -0.57 to -0.13 p < 0.01) and systolic blood pressure (SMD = -0.29 95% CI = -0.51 to -0.07 p = 0.01). However, these effects were not robust against selection bias. No intervention-related adverse events were reported. Conclusion Based on the results of this meta-analysis, no recommendation can be made for or against yoga in order to influence the parameters of metabolic syndrome. Despite methodological drawbacks, and until further research is undertaken, yoga can be preliminarily considered as a safe and effective intervention for reducing waist circumference and systolic blood pressure in in iduals with metabolic syndrome who are not adhering to conventional forms of exercise.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 15-02-2020
DOI: 10.1111/DOM.13973
Abstract: To update the available evidence on the efficacy and safety of complementary medicines to assist in weight loss by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis of herbal medicines for weight loss. Four electronic databases (Medline, Embase, CINAHL and Web of Science) were searched from inception until August 2018. A total of 54 randomized placebo-controlled trials of healthy overweight or obese adults were identified. Meta-analyses were conducted for herbal medicines with ≥4 studies available. Weight differences of ≥2.5 kg were considered clinically significant. As a single agent, only Phaseolus vulgaris resulted in a statistically significant weight loss compared to placebo, although this was not considered clinically significant. No effect was seen for Camellia sinensis or Garcinia cambogia. Statistically, but not clinically, significant differences were observed for combination preparations containing C. sinensis, P. vulgaris or Ephedra sinica. Of the herbal medicines trialled in ≤3 randomized controlled trials, statistically and clinically significant weight loss compared to placebo was reported for Irvingia gabonensis, Cissus quadrangularis, and Sphaeranthus indicus combined with Garcinia mangostana, among others, but these findings should be interpreted cautiously because of the small number of studies, generally poor methodological quality, and poor reporting of the herbal medicine interventions. Most herbal medicines appeared safe for consumption over the short duration of the studies (commonly ≤12 weeks). Some warrant further investigation to determine effect size, dosage and long-term safety. There is currently insufficient evidence to recommend any of the herbal medicines for weight loss included in the present review.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.CTIM.2016.11.009
Abstract: Costs of integrative treatment alone and in comparison with other treatment approaches have scarcely been reported in the past. This study presents results of a comparative cost analysis of an inpatient integrative medicine treatment costs. Data from 2006 for inpatients referred to a Department of Integrative Medicine in Germany were used. Case-related treatment costs were calculated, and transformed into Casemix-Indices and revenues per DRG. Costs were compared between departments at the same hospital and between different hospitals using univariate statistics and Chi-Square tests. In total 1253 inpatients (81.4% female, 61.1±14.4years) were included in the current analysis. Most patients were treated for diseases of the musculoskeletal system (57.2%), followed by diseases of the digestive system (11.4%), and diseases of the nervous system (10.4%). The department received an additional payment for most of the patients (88.0%), which led to an effective appreciation of 10.8% per case compared to the standardized Casemix-Index. In-house comparisons with other departments found the department in close vicinity to the departments of Internal medicine with regards to CMI and mean revenue, however the Patient Clinical Complexity Level was significantly lower in the Integrative medicine department. The interhospital comparison revealed comparable Casemix-Index and DRG-revenue, however the additional payment increased the mean revenue significantly. Modern integrative in-patient treatment is mostly cost-equivalent to conventional treatment. Cost effectiveness studies should be considered to further investigate the potential of integrative in patient treatment.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 29-08-2022
DOI: 10.3390/NU14173559
Abstract: Lifestyle interventions can have a positive impact on quality of life and psychological parameters in patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS). In this randomized controlled trial, 145 participants with MetS (62.8% women 59.7 ± 9.3 years) were randomized to (1) 5-day fasting followed by 10 weeks of lifestyle modification (F + LM modified DASH diet, exercise, mindfulness n = 73) or (2) 10 weeks of lifestyle modification only (LM n = 72). Outcomes were assessed at weeks 0, 1, 12, and 24, and included quality of life (Short-Form 36 Health Survey Questionnaire, SF-36), anxiety/depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, HADS), stress (Cohen Perceived Stress Scale, CPSS), mood (Profile of Mood States, POMS), self-efficacy (General Self-Efficacy Scale, GSE), mindfulness (Mindfulness Attention Awareness Scale, MAAS), and self-compassion (Self-Compassion Scale, SCS). At week 1, POMS depression and fatigue scores were significantly lower in F + LM compared to LM. At week 12, most self-report outcomes improved in both groups—only POMS vigor was significantly higher in F + LM than in LM. Most of the beneficial effects within the groups persisted at week 24. Fasting can induce mood-modulating effects in the short term. LM induced several positive effects on quality of life and psychological parameters in patients with MetS.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 26-04-2018
DOI: 10.1002/DA.22762
Abstract: Yoga has become a popular approach to improve emotional health. The aim of this review was to systematically assess and meta-analyze the effectiveness and safety of yoga for anxiety. Medline/PubMed, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, and IndMED were searched through October 2016 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of yoga for in iduals with anxiety disorders or elevated levels of anxiety. The primary outcomes were anxiety and remission rates, and secondary outcomes were depression, quality of life, and safety. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane tool. Eight RCTs with 319 participants (mean age: 30.0-38.5 years) were included. Risk of selection bias was unclear for most RCTs. Meta-analyses revealed evidence for small short-term effects of yoga on anxiety compared to no treatment (standardized mean difference [SMD] = -0.43 95% confidence interval [CI] = -0.74, -0.11 P = .008), and large effects compared to active comparators (SMD = -0.86 95% CI = -1.56, -0.15 P = .02). Small effects on depression were found compared to no treatment (SMD = -0.35 95% CI = -0.66, -0.04 P = .03). Effects were robust against potential methodological bias. No effects were found for patients with anxiety disorders diagnosed by Diagnostic and Statistical Manual criteria, only for patients diagnosed by other methods, and for in iduals with elevated levels of anxiety without a formal diagnosis. Only three RCTs reported safety-related data but these indicated that yoga was not associated with increased injuries. In conclusion, yoga might be an effective and safe intervention for in iduals with elevated levels of anxiety. There was inconclusive evidence for effects of yoga in anxiety disorders. More high-quality studies are needed and are warranted given these preliminary findings and plausible mechanisms of action.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.CTIM.2016.11.004
Abstract: The purpose of this review is to identify evidence in herbal therapy in the treatment of ADHD concerning effectiveness and drug tolerability. For this Medline/PubMed, Scopus and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (Central) were searched from their inception to 15 July 2016. Only randomized controlled trails (RCT) with children (0-18years) suffering from ADHD were included in this review. Nine RCTs with 464 patients comparing herbal pharmaceuticals to placebo or active control were included. Seven different herbs were tested in the treatment of ADHD symptoms. Low evidence could be found for Melissa officinalis, Valeriana officinalis and Passiflora incarnata. Limited evidence could be found for pine bark extract and Gingko biloba. The other herbal preparations showed no efficacy in the treatment of ADHD symptoms. While there is still a lack of sufficient numbers of RCTs no concrete recommendations for use can be made so far.
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 05-2014
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-03-2015
DOI: 10.1002/CNCR.29330
Abstract: Breast cancer survivors have only very limited treatment options for menopausal symptoms. The objective of this trial was to evaluate the effects of a 12-week traditional Hatha yoga and meditation intervention on menopausal symptoms in breast cancer survivors. Patients were randomly assigned either to a 12-week yoga and meditation intervention or to usual care. The primary outcome measure was total menopausal symptoms (Menopause Rating Scale [MRS] total score). Secondary outcome measures included MRS subscales, quality of life (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Breast), fatigue (Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue), depression, and anxiety (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale). Outcomes were assessed at week 12 and week 24 after randomization. In total, 40 women (mean age ± standard deviation, 49.2 ± 5.9 years) were randomized to yoga (n = 19) or to usual care (n = 21). Women in the yoga group reported significantly lower total menopausal symptoms compared with the usual care group at week 12 (mean difference, -5.6 95% confidence interval, -9.2 to -1.9 P = .004) and at week 24 (mean difference, -4.5 95% confidence interval, -8.3 to -0.7 P = .023). At week 12, the yoga group reported less somatovegetative, psychological, and urogenital menopausal symptoms less fatigue and improved quality of life (all P < .05). At week 24, all effects persisted except for psychological menopausal symptoms. Short-term effects on menopausal symptoms remained significant when only women who were receiving antiestrogen medication (n = 36) were analyzed. Six minor adverse events occurred in each group. Yoga combined with meditation can be considered a safe and effective complementary intervention for menopausal symptoms in breast cancer survivors. The effects seem to persist for at least 3 months.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.CGH.2016.04.026
Abstract: This review aims to systematically survey the effects of yoga on symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), pain, quality of life, mood, stress, and safety in patients with IBS. MEDLINE/Pubmed, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, CAM-QUEST, CAMbase, and IndMED were screened through November 2015. Randomized controlled trials comparing yoga with usual care, nonpharmacologic, or pharmacologic interventions were analyzed for patients with IBS. Primary outcomes included gastrointestinal symptoms, quality of life, and pain. Anxiety, mood, and safety were defined as secondary outcomes. Risk of bias was assessed according to the Cochrane Collaboration recommendations. Six randomized controlled trials with a total of 273 patients were included in the qualitative analysis. There was evidence for a beneficial effect of a yogic intervention over conventional treatment in IBS, with significantly decreased bowel symptoms, IBS severity, and anxiety. Furthermore, there were significant improvements in quality of life, global improvement, and physical functioning after yoga compared with no treatment. Two randomized controlled trials reported safety data stating that no adverse events occurred. Overall, risk of bias of the included studies was unclear. The findings of this systematic review suggest that yoga might be a feasible and safe adjunctive treatment for people with IBS. Nevertheless, no recommendation can be made regarding yoga as a routine intervention for patients with IBS because of major flaws in study methods. More research is needed with respect to a high-quality study design and consensus in clinical outcome measurements in IBS. ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT02721836.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.CTCP.2018.09.002
Abstract: This study examines the relationship between the use of complementary medicine (CM) interventions or consultations with CM practitioners and women's choice of contraceptive method. A secondary analysis of a cross-sectional survey of Australian Women aged 34-39 years from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH) was conducted. Associations between use of CM and contraception were analysed using Chi-squared tests and multivariate logistic regression. Based on the responses from the included women (n = 7299), women who consulted a naturopath/herbalist were less likely to use implant contraceptives (OR 0.56 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.33 0.95). Those consulting a chiropractor (OR 1.54 95%CI 1.05 2.25) or an osteopath (OR 2.16 95% CI 1.32 3.54) were more likely to use natural contraception. There may be a link between women's choice of contraceptive method and their use of CM, in particular, with CM practitioner consultations.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.NUT.2017.07.004
Abstract: The aim of this review was to systematically assess and meta-analyze the effects of a low fermentable, oligo-, di-, mono-saccharides and polyol (FODMAP) diet (LFD) on the severity of symptoms, quality of life, and safety in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases were screened through January 19, 2016. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared LFD to other diets were included if they assessed symptoms of IBS or abdominal pain in patients with IBS. Safety, quality of life, anxiety, depression, and effect on gut microbiota were defined as secondary outcomes. Standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated. Nine RCTs with a total of 596 subjects were included. Three RCTs compared LFD with a habitual diet, two RCTs provided all meals and compared LFD with a western diet, one RCT each compared LFD with a diet high in FODMAPs or a sham diet, and two RCTs compared with other diet recommendations for IBS. A meta-analysis revealed significant group differences for LFD compared with other diets with regard to gastrointestinal symptoms (SMD = -0.62 95% CI = -0.93 to -0.31 P = 0.0001), abdominal pain (SMD = -0.50 95% CI = -0.77 to -0.22 P = 0.008), and health-related quality of life (SMD = 0.36 95% CI = 0.10-0.62 P = 0.007). Three studies reported a significant reduction in luminal bifidobacteria after LFD. Adverse events were assessed in three RCTs only and no intervention-related adverse events were reported. This meta-analysis found evidence of the short-term efficacy and safety of LFD in patients with IBS. However, only a preliminary recommendation for LFD can be made until long-term effects are investigated.
Publisher: Georg Thieme Verlag KG
Date: 09-02-2016
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.CTIM.2019.01.009
Abstract: Examine the generational differences in complementary medicine (CM) utilisation between young women from the X and Millennial generations. Secondary analysis of two cross-sectional surveys from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH). Australia. Differences between young Generation X women (surveyed 1996 aged 18-23 years), and Millennial women (surveyed 2014 aged 19-24 years) regarding consultations with CM practitioners, sociodemographic characteristics, and health. Predictors for CM consultations were analysed via logistic regression analyses. Of the 14,247 Generation X women, 19.4% reported consulting CM, compared to 26.8% of the 11,344 Millennial women. CM consultations was predicted in both cohorts by higher age, education beyond primary school, non-urban (vs. urban) residence, and frequent back pain or headaches. Obesity and regular smoking predicted non-use in both. Significant cohort differences were found in physical activity levels (moderate/high levels associated with increased CM consultations in Millennial, but not Generation X women), and health status (Generation X women reporting fair-poor health were more likely to consult CM practitioners, while Millennial women reporting good health were less likely to do so, compared to women with very good/excellent health). The increase in CM utilization among young Australian women from Generation X compared to the Millennial generation could indicate different health consumer patterns for future middle-aged and older adult Australian women. Further increases in CM usage may be observed as current young women age into characteristics traditionally linked with higher CM use such as worsening health status and increased disposable income.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 11-2014
DOI: 10.1111/PME.12534
Abstract: This analysis aimed to determine reliability, validity, and responsiveness of the pain on movement (POM) questionnaire, an instrument developed to determine pain intensity induced by head movement. Data from nine randomized controlled trials for the treatment of chronic nonspecific neck pain were reanalyzed to determine reliability and validity of the POM questionnaire. POM was assessed as ratings of pain intensity induced by head movement in six different directions. The instrument's structure was assessed using a factor analysis. Reliability (internal consistency) was determined using Cronbach's alpha, and validity (convergent validity) was determined by correlating the POM with pain at rest on a visual analog scale (VAS), the neck disability index (NDI), quality of life (short-form 36 health survey questionnaire [SF-36]) and range of motion. Responsiveness was indicated by sensitivity to changes over time in a subs le of 49 patients. Overall, 482 patients (mean age 50.3 ± 12.4 years, 72.3% female) were included in the analysis, and 458 of them provided complete data set for the POM. Average POM was 43.9 ± 20.8 mm on the VAS. The POM showed very good reliability as indicated by high internal consistency and moderate validity as indicated by significant correlations with the pain at rest, the NDI, and the SF-36. No correlations were found for POM with range of motion. The POM further proved to be responsive as it was sensitive to changes over time, and those changes were correlated to changes in pain intensity and NDI. The POM seems to be a reliable and valid instrument to assess POM in patients with chronic nonspecific neck pain.
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 09-2021
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 2016
DOI: 10.1155/2016/5859729
Abstract: A reasonable estimation of expected dropout rates is vital for adequate s le size calculations in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Underestimating expected dropouts rates increases the risk of false negative results while overestimating rates results in overly large s le sizes, raising both ethical and economic issues. To estimate expected dropout rates in RCTs on yoga interventions, MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, IndMED, and the Cochrane Library were searched through February 2014 a total of 168 RCTs were meta-analyzed. Overall dropout rate was 11.42% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 10.11%, 12.73%) in the yoga groups rates were comparable in usual care and psychological control groups and were slightly higher in exercise control groups (rate = 14.53% 95% CI = 11.56%, 17.50% odds ratio = 0.82 95% CI = 0.68, 0.98 p = 0.03 ). For RCTs with durations above 12 weeks, dropout rates in yoga groups increased to 15.23% (95% CI = 11.79%, 18.68%). The upper border of 95% CIs for dropout rates commonly was below 20% regardless of study origin, health condition, gender, age groups, and intervention characteristics however, it exceeded 40% for studies on HIV patients or heterogeneous age groups. In conclusion, dropout rates can be expected to be less than 15 to 20% for most RCTs on yoga interventions. Yet dropout rates beyond 40% are possible depending on the participants’ sociodemographic and health condition.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 09-08-2013
DOI: 10.1093/RHEUMATOLOGY/KET264
Abstract: To evaluate the quality of evidence and the strength of recommendation for yoga as an ancillary intervention in rheumatic diseases. Medline/PubMed, Scopus, the Cochrane Library and IndMED were searched through February 2013. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing yoga with control interventions in patients with rheumatic diseases were included. Two authors independently assessed the risk of bias using the Cochrane Back Review Group risk of bias tool. The quality of evidence and the strength of the recommendation for or against yoga were graded according to the GRADE recommendations. Eight RCTs with a total of 559 subjects were included two RCTs had a low risk of bias. In two RCTs on FM syndrome, there was very low evidence for effects on pain and low evidence for effects on disability. In three RCTs on OA, there was very low evidence for effects on pain and disability. Based on two RCTs, very low evidence was found for effects on pain in RA. No evidence for effects on pain was found in one RCT on CTS. No RCT explicitly reported safety data. Based on the results of this review, only weak recommendations can be made for the ancillary use of yoga in the management of FM syndrome, OA and RA at this point.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.MATURITAS.2017.05.008
Abstract: Previous research has found that yoga can enhance quality of life and ease menopausal symptoms of breast cancer survivors. The study examined whether self-esteem mediated the effects of yoga on quality of life, fatigue and menopausal symptoms, utilizing validated outcome measures. This is a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial comparing the effects of yoga with those of usual care in 40 breast cancer survivors who suffered from menopausal symptoms. All participants completed all 3 assessments (week 0, week 12, and week 24) and provided full data. Outcomes were measured using self-rating instruments. Mediation analyses were performed using SPSS. Self-esteem mediated the effect of yoga on total menopausal symptoms (B=-2.11, 95% BCI [-5.40 to -0.37]), psychological menopausal symptoms (B=-0.94, 95% BCI [-2.30 to -0.01]), and urogenital menopausal symptoms (B=-0.66, 95% BCI [-1.65 to -0.15]), quality of life (B=8.04, 95% BCI [3.15-17.03]), social well-being (B=1.80, 95% BCI [0.54-4.21]), emotional well-being (B=1.62, 95% BCI [0.70-3.34]), functional well-being (B=1.84, 95% BCI [0.59-4.13]), and fatigue (B=4.34, 95% BCI [1.28-9.55]). Self-esteem had no effect on somatovegetative menopausal symptoms (B=-0.50, 95% BCI n.s.) or on physical well-being (B=0.79, 95% BCI n.s.). Findings support the assumption that self-esteem plays a vital role in the beneficial effect of yoga and that yoga can have long-term benefits for women diagnosed with breast cancer and undergoing menopausal transition.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.JPSYCHORES.2013.10.010
Abstract: This paper presents a systematic review and meta-analysis of the effectiveness of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) for FMS. The PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, PsychINFO and CAMBASE databases were screened in September 2013 to identify randomized and non-randomized controlled trials comparing MBSR to control interventions. Major outcome measures were quality of life and pain secondary outcomes included sleep quality, fatigue, depression and safety. Standardized mean differences and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Six trials were located with a total of 674 FMS patients. Analyses revealed low quality evidence for short-term improvement of quality of life (SMD=-0.35 95% CI -0.57 to -0.12 P=0.002) and pain (SMD=-0.23 95% CI -0.46 to -0.01 P=0.04) after MBSR, when compared to usual care and for short-term improvement of quality of life (SMD=-0.32 95% CI -0.59 to -0.04 P=0.02) and pain (SMD=-0.44 95% CI -0.73 to -0.16 P=0.002) after MBSR, when compared to active control interventions. Effects were not robust against bias. No evidence was further found for secondary outcomes or long-term effects of MBSR. Safety data were not reported in any trial. This systematic review found that MBSR might be a useful approach for FMS patients. According to the quality of evidence only a weak recommendation for MBSR can be made at this point. Further high quality RCTs are required for a conclusive judgment of its effects.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.MATURITAS.2015.10.010
Abstract: Falls are the leading cause of injuries in women across all ages. While yoga has been shown to increase balance, it has also been associated with injuries due to falls during practice. This study aimed to analyse whether regular yoga or meditation practice is associated with the frequency of falls and fall-related injuries in upper middle-aged Australian women. Women aged 59-64 years from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH) were queried regarding falls and falls-related injuries and whether they regularly practiced yoga or meditation. Associations of falls and falls-related injuries with yoga or meditation practice were analysed using chi-squared tests and multiple logistic regression modelling. Of 10,011 women, 4413 (44.1%) had slipped, tripped or stumbled, 2770 (27.7%) had fallen to the ground, 1398 (14.0%) had been injured as a result of falling, and 901 (9.0%) women had sought medical attention for a fall-related injury within the previous 12 months. Yoga or meditation was practiced regularly by 746 (7.5%) women. No associations of falls, fall-related injuries and treatment due to falls-related injury with yoga or meditation practice were found. No association between yoga or meditation practice and falls or fall-related injuries have been found. Further studies are warranted for conclusive judgement of benefits and safety of yoga and meditation in relation to balance, falls and fall-related injuries.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 13-06-2018
Abstract: Introduction: Complementary medicine (CM) use has been found to influence the uptake of conventional cancer treatment. This study examines associations between CM use and cancer screening rates. Methods: Women aged 62 to 67 years from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health were surveyed regarding their use of cancer screening initiatives. Associations between cancer screening behavior and visits to CM practitioners were analyzed. Results: Of the 9151 women, 9049 (98.9%) completed questions about cancer screening. A total of 65.1% of women had received a clinical skin examination, 54.3% colorectal cancer screening, 56.2% Pap test (within past 2 years), 83.3% mammogram (within past 2 years), 55.8% clinical breast examination, and 55.8% had conducted breast self-examination. Women who had consulted a massage therapist were more likely to undergo clinical skin examination ( P = .002), clinical breast examination ( P = .018), and mammogram ( P = .001). Women who had consulted a chiropractor were more likely to undergo a clinical skin examination ( P = .001), colorectal cancer screening ( P = .020), and mammogram ( P = .011). Women who had consulted an acupuncturist were more likely to undergo colorectal cancer screening ( P = .019), and those who consulted with an osteopath were more liable to have a Pap test ( P = .049). Conclusion: Women who visit CM practitioners are more likely to participate in cancer screening initiatives. Research is required to understand the current and potential role that CM practitioners (can) have as public health advocates, recommending preventative health measures such as cancer screening. Such an examination will help ensure optimal screening utilization and effective, timely care for all cancer patients.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 03-2013
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 28-03-2019
DOI: 10.1111/IJCP.13343
Abstract: To describe the healthcare behaviours of Australian women (45 years and over) diagnosed with a chronic illness. This is a cross-sectional sub-study of the 45 and Up Study-the largest study of healthy ageing conducted in the Southern Hemisphere-including 1,932 Australian women (45 years and older) with a self-reported diagnosis of either depression, asthma, diabetes, osteoarthritis or osteoporosis. Questionnaires were posted to eligible participants between September and December 2016 and included self-reported use of formal and informal health services and healthcare behaviours, and health practitioner recommendations and monitoring of informal care. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the s le characteristics and chi-square tests assessed associations between variables. The average age of participants was 69. We found that 53.7% of the women used informal healthcare products or practices for their chronic illness (eg exercise, nutritional supplements). These women were significantly (P < 0.001) more likely to consult with all types of health practitioners, compared with women not using informal healthcare. Physical activity and nutritional supplements were the most commonly recommended product or practice by all healthcare practitioners. However, informal healthcare behaviours were not regularly recommended or monitored by health practitioners. Women use a range of informal products and practices to manage chronic illness, but many fail to communicate with their health practitioners about such use. Future research should consider how to encourage better communication between health practitioners and patients related to informal healthcare for chronic illness to help ensure safe, effective, coordinated patient management.
Publisher: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
Date: 06-2017
Abstract: Gastrointestinal disorders are common childhood complaints. Particular types of complementary and alternative medicine, such as herbal medicine, are commonly used among children. Research information on efficacy, safety, or dosage forms is still lacking. To systematically summarize effectiveness and safety of different herbal treatment options for gastrointestinal disorders in children. Medline/PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library were searched through July 15, 2016. Randomized controlled trials comparing herbal therapy with no treatment, placebo, or any pharmaceutical medication in children and adolescents (aged 0–18 years) with gastrointestinal disorders were eligible. Two authors extracted data on study design, patients, interventions, control interventions, results, adverse events, and risk of bias. Fourteen trials with 1927 participants suffering from different acute and functional gastrointestinal disorders were included in this review. Promising evidence for effectiveness was found for Potentilla erecta, carob bean juice, and an herbal compound preparation including Matricaria chamomilla in treating diarrhea. Moreover, evidence was found for peppermint oil in decreasing duration, frequency, and severity of pain in children suffering from undifferentiated functional abdominal pain. Furthermore, evidence for effectiveness was found for different fennel preparations (eg, oil, tea, herbal compound) in treating children with infantile colic. No serious adverse events were reported. Few studies on specific indications, single herbs, or herbal preparations could be identified. Because of the limited number of studies, results have to be interpreted carefully. To underpin evidence outlined in this review, more rigorous clinical trials are needed.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 09-2016
Publisher: Georg Thieme Verlag KG
Date: 09-02-2016
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 05-01-2022
DOI: 10.1186/S12913-021-07426-9
Abstract: The identification of typologies of health care users and their specific characteristics can be performed using cluster analysis. This statistical approach aggregates similar users based on their common health-related behavior. This study aims to examine health care utilization patterns using cluster analysis and the associations of health care user types with sociodemographic, health-related and health-system related factors. Cross-sectional data from the 2012 National Health Interview Survey were used. Health care utilization was measured by consultations with a variety of medical, allied and complementary health practitioners or the use of several interventions (exercise, diet, supplementation etc.) within the past 12 months (used vs. not used). A model-based clustering approach based on finite normal mixture modelling, and several indices of cluster fit were determined. Health care utilization within the cluster was analyzed descriptively, and independent predictors of belonging to the respective clusters were analyzed using logistic regression models including sociodemographic, health- and health insurance-related factors. Nine distinct health care user types were identified, ranging from nearly non-use of health care modalities to over-utilization of medical, allied and complementary health care. Several sociodemographic and health-related characteristics were predictive of belonging to the respective health care user types, including age, gender, health status, education, income, ethnicity, and health care coverage. Cluster analysis can be used to identify typical health care utilization patterns based on empirical data and those typologies are related to a variety of sociodemographic and health-related characteristics. These findings on in idual differences regarding health care access and utilization can inform future health care research and policy regarding how to improve accessibility of different medical approaches.
Publisher: S. Karger AG
Date: 2016
DOI: 10.1159/000446573
Abstract: Pflanzliche Arzneimittel haben in der medizinischen Versorgung im deutschsprachigen Raum eine lange Tradition, werden aber bei der Erstellung medizinischer Leitlinien selten berücksichtigt. In einer Vorstudie wurde von unserer Arbeitsgruppe aufgearbeitet, in welchem Ausmaß sie in den aktuellen interdisziplinär, evidenz- und konsensusbasiert erstellten S3-Leitlinien der Arbeitsgemeinschaft der Wissenschaftlichen Medizinischen Fachgesellschaften (AWMF) Beachtung gefunden haben. Ziel der jetzigen Studie war es, zu analysieren, inwieweit Neben- bzw. Wechselwirkungen von pflanzlichen Arzneimitteln in diesen S3-Leitlinien diskutiert werden. Im Januar 2015 wurden 134 S3-Leitlinien gezählt und analysiert. 27,6% (n = 37) weisen insgesamt 194 Statements unter dem Begriff «Phytotherapie» auf. Hinweise zu Neben- und Wechselwirkungen finden sich in 28,4% der Statements (n = 55), die bei 13,9% (n = 27) durch Literatur belegt werden. 14 dieser Statements betreffen Nahrungsergänzungsmittel und Ähnliches, 11 sind pauschale Aussagen zur Phytotherapie, 7 fassen mindestens 2 Arzneipflanzen pauschal zusammen. Damit weisen nur 23 Statements auf Neben- bzw. Wechselwirkungen von einzelnen Arzneipflanzen hin, 14 davon sind mit Literaturstellen belegt. Diese Ergebnisse entsprechen bei Weitem nicht den geforderten Standards der AWMF. Dafür verantwortlich sind insbesondere unpräzise Begrifflichkeiten sowie eine unzureichende Systematik bei der Suche nach wissenschaftlicher Evidenz für die Unbedenklichkeit von Arzneipflanzen-Zubereitungen. Die Gesellschaft für Phytotherapie kann hier einen wichtigen Beitrag zur Qualitätsverbesserung leisten.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.MIDW.2021.103229
Abstract: Approximately one-fifth of pregnant women suffer from anxiety and/or depression. These mental health conditions are associated with increased infant and maternal morbidity. Relaxation massage has the potential to improve mental health and may provide a vaulable option for pregnant women. This paper reports on participants' experiences of partner delivered massage as a technique to manage mild antenatal anxiety. We conducted a feasibility study with 44 pregnant women who self-assessed as mildly anxious. The women were randomised into massage therapy (14 women artner dyads) or to an active control group (13 women). 4-6 weeks after the birth of their baby, massage group participants were invited to be interviewed about their experiences twelve women and four partners agreed. The qualitative data was analysed using reflective thematic analysis. Four themes emerged from the data Supporting mental health, Connecting, Useful and adaptable and Making it happen. Partner delivered massage was an accessible and practical method to manage mild anxiety for pregnant women in this study. The massage program also provided useful skills for participants to apply in their lives after the birth of their child, which has the potential to continue to support maternal mental health as well as partner connection. Partner delivered massage offers low-cost, accessible option for pregnant women to manage their mild anxiety. These findings have particular relevance in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, where anecdotal reports indicate that antenatal stress is increasing and women may have limited access to healthcare services.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.JPAIN.2016.06.004
Abstract: This study aimed to test the efficacy of Tai Chi for treating chronic neck pain. Subjects with chronic nonspecific neck pain were randomly assigned to 12 weeks of group Tai Chi or conventional neck exercises with weekly sessions of 75 to 90 minutes, or a wait-list control. The primary outcome measure was pain intensity (visual analogue scale). Secondary outcomes included pain on movement, functional disability, quality of life, well-being and perceived stress, postural and interoceptive awareness, satisfaction, and safety. Altogether, 114 participants were included (91 women, 49.4 ± 11.7 years of age). After 12 weeks Tai Chi participants reported significantly less pain compared with the wait list group (average difference in mm on the visual analogue scale: -10.5 95% confidence interval, -20.3 to -.9 P = .033). Group differences were also found for pain on movement, functional disability, and quality of life compared with the wait list group. No differences were found for Tai Chi compared with neck exercises. Patients' satisfaction with both exercise interventions was high, and only minor side effects were observed. Tai Chi was more effective than no treatment in improving pain in subjects with chronic nonspecific neck pain. Because Tai Chi is probably as effective as neck exercises it may be considered a suitable alternative to conventional exercises for those with a preference toward Tai Chi. This article presents results of a randomized controlled trial comparing Tai Chi, conventional neck exercises, and no treatment for chronic nonspecific neck pain. Results indicate that Tai Chi exercises and conventional neck exercises are equally effective in improving pain and quality of life therefore representing beneficial interventions for neck pain.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 18-09-2014
Abstract: Introduction. Many breast cancer patients and survivors experience pain and emotional stress related to their disease, its diagnostic procedures, or treatment. Hypnosis has long been used for the treatment of such symptoms. The aim of this review was to systematically assess the effectiveness of hypnosis in women with breast cancer, breast cancer survivors, and in women undergoing diagnostic breast biopsy. Methods. PubMed, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, and CAMBASE were screened through February 2014 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of hypnosis in women with breast cancer or undergoing diagnostic breast biopsy. RCTs on postmenopausal women without a history of breast cancer were also eligible. Primary outcomes were pain, distress, fatigue, nausea/vomiting, and hot flashes. Safety was defined as secondary outcome measure. Risk of bias was assessed by 2 reviewers independently using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Results. Thirteen RCTs with 1357 patients were included. In women undergoing diagnostic breast biopsy (3 RCTs), hypnosis positively influenced pain and distress 1 RCT on breast cancer surgery found effects of hypnosis on pain, distress, fatigue, and nausea. For women undergoing radiotherapy (3 RCTs), hypnosis combined with cognitive–behavioral therapy improved distress and fatigue. In 3 RCTs on women with and without a history of breast cancer experiencing hot flashes, hypnosis improved hot flashes and distress. Three RCTs on women with metastatic breast cancer found effects on pain and distress. Conclusions. This systematic review found sparse but promising evidence for the effectiveness of hypnosis in breast cancer care. While more research is needed to underpin these results, hypnosis can be considered as an ancillary intervention in the management of breast cancer–related symptoms.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 19-03-2014
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 05-2014
Publisher: S. Karger AG
Date: 2017
DOI: 10.1159/000454872
Abstract: b i Background: /i /b Chronic neck pain is a major public health burden with only limited evidence for the effectiveness of complementary therapies. This study aimed to test the efficacy of cupping massage in patients with neck pain. b i Patients and Methods: /i /b Patients with chronic non-specific neck pain were randomly assigned to cupping massage or a wait list control. The intervention group received 5 cupping massages on a twice-weekly basis while the control patients continued their usual treatments. The primary outcome measure was neck pain intensity (0-100 mm visual analogue scale (VAS)) after 3 weeks. Secondary outcomes included pain on movement, functional disability, health-related quality of life, mechanical detection and pain thresholds and adverse events. b i Results: /i /b 50 patients (52.6 ± 10.3 years, 92% female) were randomised to either cupping massage or a wait list (N = 25 each). Patients in the cupping group reported significantly less neck pain post intervention (difference per protocol -14.3 mm, 95% confidence interval (CI) -27.7 to -1.0, p = 0.037 difference intention-to-treat -10.8 mm, 95% CI -21.5 to -0.1, p = 0.047). Significant group differences in favour of the intervention were further found for pain on movement (p = 0.019) and functional disability (p 0.001), the quality-of-life subscales pain (p = 0.002) and mental health (p = 0.003) and the mental component summary (p = 0.036). Changes were also found for pressure pain sensitivity at the site of maximal pain (p = 0.022). Five adverse events were reported. b i Conclusions: /i /b Cupping massage appears to be effective in reducing pain and increasing function and quality of life in patients with chronic non-specific neck pain. More rigorous studies are needed to confirm and extend these results.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2016
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 07-2016
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 15-08-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2015
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 22-05-2017
DOI: 10.1007/S00296-017-3744-Z
Abstract: Yoga exercises have been associated with joint problems recently, indicating that yoga practice might be potentially dangerous for joint health. This study aimed to analyse whether regular yoga practice is associated with the frequency of joint problems in upper middle-aged Australian women. Women aged 62-67 years from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH) were questioned in 2013 whether they experienced regular joint pain or problems in the past 12 months and whether they regularly practiced yoga. Associations of joint problems with yoga practice were analysed using Chi-squared tests and multiple logistic regression modelling. Of 9151 women, 29.8% reported regular problems with stiff or painful joints, and 15.2, 11.9, 18.1 and 15.9% reported regular problems with shoulders, hips, knees and feet, respectively, in the past 12 months. Yoga was practiced sometimes by 10.1% and often by 8.4% of women. Practicing yoga was not associated with upper or lower limb joint problems. No association between yoga practice and joint problems has been identified. Further studies are warranted for conclusive judgement of benefits and safety of yoga in relation to joint problems.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 24-09-2019
Abstract: Background and objectives: Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use has been associated with preventive health behaviors. However, the role of CAM use in patients’ health behaviors remains unclear. This study aimed to determine the extent to which patients report that CAM use motivates them to make changes to their health behaviors. Materials and Methods: This secondary analysis of 2012 National Health Interview Survey data involved 10,201 CAM users living in the United States who identified up to three CAM therapies most important to their health. Analyses assessed the extent to which participants reported that their CAM use motivated positive health behavior changes, specifically: eating healthier, eating more organic foods, cutting back/stopping drinking alcohol, cutting back/quitting smoking cigarettes, and/or exercising more regularly. Results: Overall, 45.4% of CAM users reported being motivated by CAM to make positive health behavior changes, including exercising more regularly (34.9%), eating healthier (31.4%), eating more organic foods (17.2%), reducing/stopping smoking (16.6% of smokers), or reducing/stopping drinking alcohol (8.7% of drinkers). In idual CAM therapies motivated positive health behavior changes in 22% (massage) to 81% (special diets) of users. People were more likely to report being motivated to change health behaviors if they were: aged 18–64 compared to those aged over 65 years of female gender not in a relationship of Hispanic or Black ethnicity, compared to White reporting at least college education, compared to people with less than high school education without health insurance. Conclusions: A sizeable proportion of respondents were motivated by their CAM use to undertake health behavior changes. CAM practices and practitioners could help improve patients’ health behavior and have potentially significant implications for public health and preventive medicine initiatives this warrants further research attention.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 09-2017
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2017-015830
Abstract: The Australian Chiropractic Research Network (ACORN) practice-based research network (PBRN) cohort was established to provide sustainable infrastructure necessary to address lack of rigorous investigation and to bridge the research–practice gap focused on chiropractic care for future years. This paper presents the profile of chiropractors recruited to the ACORN PBRN, a nationally representative s le of chiropractors working in Australia. Cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from a cohort study of chiropractors in Australia. All registered chiropractors in Australia were invited to participate in the ACORN study and those who completed a practitioner questionnaire and consent form were included in the PBRN cohort. A total of 1680 chiropractors (36%) were recruited to the cohort database. The average age of the PBRN participants is 41.9 years and 63% are male. The vast majority of the PBRN participants hold a university degree. General practitioners were identified as the most popular referral source for chiropractic care and low back pain and neck pain were the most common conditions ‘often’ treated by the PBRN chiropractors. The chiropractors in this PBRN cohort rated high velocity, low litude adjustment/manipulation/mobilisation as the most commonly used technique/method and soft tissue therapy as the most frequently employed musculoskeletal intervention in their patient management. The ACORN PBRN cohort constitutes the largest coverage of any single healthcare profession via a national voluntary PBRN providing a sustainable resource for future follow-up. The ACORN cohort provides opportunities for further nested substudies related to chiropractic care, chiropractors, their patients and a vast range of broader healthcare issues with a view to helping build a erse but coordinated research programme and further research capacity building around Australian chiropractic.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 11-2017
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 28-09-2013
DOI: 10.1007/S12529-013-9354-6
Abstract: Health behavior change can improve physical and psychosocial outcomes in internal medicine patients.Purpose This study aims to identify predictors for health behavior change after an integrative medicine inpatient program. German internal medicine patients' (N =2,486 80 %female 53.9±14.3 years) practice frequency for aerobic exercise(e.g., walking, running, cycling, swimming), meditative movement therapies (e.g., yoga, tai ji, qigong), and relaxation techniques(e.g., progressive relaxation, mindfulness meditation,breathing exercises, guided imagery) was assessed at admission to a 14-day integrative medicine inpatient program, and 3, 6, and 12 months after discharge. Health behavior change was regressed to exercise self-efficacy, stage of change, and health locus of control (internal, external-social, external-fatalistic). Short-term increases in practice frequency were found for aerobic exercise: short- and long-term increases for meditative movement therapies and relaxation techniques (all p <0.01). After controlling for sociodemographic characteristics,clinical characteristics, and health status, exercise self-efficacy or interactions of exercise self-efficacy with stage of change predicted increased practice frequency of aerobic exercise at 6 months of meditative movement therapies at 3 and 6 months and of relaxation techniques at 3, 6, and 12 months (all p <0.05). Health locus of control predicted increased practice frequency of aerobic exercise at 3 months and of relaxation techniques at 3, 6, and 12 months (all p <0.05). Health behavior change after an integrative medicine inpatient program was predicted by self-efficacy,stage of change, and health locus of control.Considering these aspects might improve adherence to health-promoting behavior after lifestyle modification programs.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 29-04-2016
DOI: 10.1038/SREP25325
Abstract: Several studies reported that Tai Chi showed potential effects for chronic pain, but its role remains controversial. This review assessed the evidence regarding the effects of Tai Chi for chronic pain conditions. 18 randomized controlled trials were included in our review. The aggregated results have indicated that Tai Chi showed positive evidence on immediate relief of chronic pain from osteoarthritis (standardized mean difference [SMD], −0.54 95% confidence intervals [CI], −0.77 to −0.30 P 0.05). The valid duration of Tai Chi practice for osteoarthritis may be more than 5 weeks. And there were some beneficial evidences regarding the effects of Tai Chi on immediate relief of chronic pain from low back pain (SMD, −0.81 95% CI, −1.11 to −0.52 P 0.05) and osteoporosis (SMD, −0.83 95% CI, −1.37 to −0.28 P = 0.003). Therefore, clinicians may consider Tai Chi as a viable complementary and alternative medicine for chronic pain conditions.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.CTCP.2019.04.001
Abstract: This prospective observational study aimed to investigate the effects of an interdisciplinary multimodal integrated care program in patients with chronic migraine and/or tension-type headache. Patients (n = 158) underwent inpatient, outpatient and/or semi-stationary treatment including conventional as well as complementary headache treatment. Headache frequency was defined as the primary outcome secondary outcomes included pain (VAS, PPS), medication use, quality of life (SF-36), function (HDI, PSFS), depression and anxiety (HADS), and pain self-efficacy (PSEQ). Headache frequency decreased from 17.0 ± 8.8 days/month at treatment start to 11.4 ± 9.2 at treatment end and to 10.6 ± 9.3 at 6-month follow-up (p < 0.001). All other outcome measures also improved across the course of the study (all p < 0.001). An integrated care approach based on integrative medicine improved headache symptoms and functioning in patients with chronic migraine and/or tension-type headache. Interdisciplinary multimodal treatment approaches seem to adequately address the specific treatment needs of headache patients.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2013
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2014
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 2013
DOI: 10.1155/2013/702914
Abstract: While clinical trials have shown evidence of efficacy of yoga in different chronic diseases, subjective health benefits associated with yoga practice under naturalistic conditions have not yet been investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate associations of regular yoga practice with quality of life and mental health in patients with chronic diseases. Using a case-control design, patients with chronic diseases who regularly practiced yoga were selected from a large observational study and compared to controls who did not regularly practice yoga and who were matched in idually to each case on gender, main diagnosis, education, and age (within 5 years). Patients’ quality of life (SF-36 questionnaire), mental health (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), life satisfaction, and health satisfaction (Questionnaire for Life Satisfaction) were assessed. Patients who regularly practiced yoga ( n = 186 ) had a better general health status ( P = 0.012 ), a higher physical functioning ( P = 0.001 ), and physical component score ( P = 0.029 ) on the SF-36 than those who did not ( n = 186 ). No group differences were found for the mental scales of the SF-36, anxiety, depression, life satisfaction, or health satisfaction. In conclusion, practicing yoga under naturalistic conditions seems to be associated with increased physical health but not mental health in chronically diseased patients.
Publisher: S. Karger AG
Date: 2014
DOI: 10.1159/000365019
Abstract: b i Background: /i /b In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) tongue diagnosis and pulse diagnosis are the major diagnostic methods up till now. As western research has tended to focus on acupuncture, attempts to standardize the classic diagnostic methods have been few. b i Methods: /i /b A digital camera with a ring flash was fixed in a frame, so that the tongue-lens-distance and illumination were kept constant. A pilot study testing the inter-methods reliability, test-retest reliability, and interrater reliability of 2 observers was conducted: the tongues (1 ×) as well as the tongue images (2 ×) from 76 patients from our ward were assessed with a standardized rating list in a randomized order by both observers, who were mutually blinded. As primary outcome measure we used agreement beyond chance (Cohen's kappa). b i Results: /i /b The colors of the tongue body / the tongue coating were the main criteria for the authentic reproduction of the tongue in our images. Inter-methods reliability for the color of the tongue body/coating was kappa 0.35 / 0.34 (p 0.001) for observer 1 and 0.59 / 0.57 (p 0.001) for observer 2. Test-retest reliability for the color of the tongue body / the tongue coating was kappa 0.53 / 0.48 (p 0.001) for observer 1 and 0.65 / 0.62 (p 0.001) for observer 2. Interrater reliability was generally low. b i Conclusions: /i /b The introduced device represents a first step towards standardization of tongue diagnosis. However, inter-methods as well as test-retest reliability vary between observers and different morphological characteristics.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.JAD.2017.02.006
Abstract: The purpose of this review was to investigate the efficacy and safety of yoga interventions in treating patients with major depressive disorder. MEDLINE, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library were screened through December 2016. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing yoga to inactive or active comparators in patients with major depressive disorder were eligible. Primary outcomes included remission rates and severity of depression. Anxiety and adverse events were secondary outcomes. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane tool. Seven RCTs with 240 participants were included. Risk of bias was unclear for most RCTs. Compared to aerobic exercise, no short- or medium-term group differences in depression severity was found. Higher short-term depression severity was found for yoga compared to electro-convulsive therapy remission rates did not differ between groups. No short-term group differences occurred when yoga was compared to antidepressant medication. Conflicting evidence was found when yoga was compared to attention-control interventions, or when yoga as an add-on to antidepressant medication was compared to medication alone. Only two RCTs assessed adverse events and reported that no treatment-related adverse events were reported. Few RCTs with low s le size. This review found some evidence for positive effects beyond placebo and comparable effects compared to evidence-based interventions. However, methodological problems and the unclear risk-benefit ratio preclude definitive recommendations for or against yoga as an adjunct treatment for major depressive disorder. Larger and adequately powered RCTs using non-inferiority designs are needed.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 02-05-2014
DOI: 10.1093/AJH/HPU078
Abstract: The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the quality of evidence and the strength of recommendation for yoga as a therapeutic means in the management of prehypertension and hypertension. MEDLINE/Pubmed, Scopus, CENTRAL, and IndMED were screened through February 2014 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the effects of yoga interventions (≥8 weeks) compared with usual care or any active control intervention on blood pressure in patients with prehypertension (120-139/80-89 mm Hg) or hypertension (≥140/≥90 mm Hg). Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool quality of evidence was assessed according to the GRADE recommendations. Seven RCTs with a total of 452 patients were included. Compared with usual care, very low-quality evidence was found for effects of yoga on systolic (6 RCTs, n = 278 mean difference (MD) = -9.65 mm Hg, 95% confidence interval (CI) = -17.23 to -2.06, P = 0.01 heterogeneity: I (2) = 90%, χ(2) = 48.21, P < 0.01) and diastolic blood pressure (6 RCTs, n = 278 MD = -7.22 mm Hg, 95% CI = -12.83 to -1.62, P = 0.01 heterogeneity: I (2) = 92%, χ(2) = 64.84, P < 0.01). Subgroup analyses revealed effects for RCTs that included hypertensive patients but not for RCTs that included both hypertensive and prehypertensive patients, as well as for RCTs that allowed antihypertensive comedication but not for those that did not. More adverse events occurred during yoga than during usual care. Compared with exercise, no evidence was found for effects of yoga on systolic or diastolic blood pressure. Larger studies are required to confirm the emerging but low-quality evidence that yoga may be a useful adjunct intervention in the management of hypertension.
Publisher: S. Karger AG
Date: 2012
DOI: 10.1159/000341869
Abstract: The cupping massage is a form of bloodless cupping. This type of cupping is particularly used to treat muscular tension and musculoskeletal pain, such as chronic neck pain however the data records on mechanisms and potential side effects are not satisfactory. In a study on the effectiveness of cupping massage in patients with chronic neck pain, one patient showed a formation of a lipoma in the cupping area after the first treatment session. Because of the short time interval between therapy and development of the lipoma, a primary cause is not realistic. This adverse event has not been described in the literature before, and the present report describes the case in summary.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.CTIM.2018.07.012
Abstract: To examine the prevalence of vegetarianism among yoga practitioners, and to explore differences and similarities between yoga practitioners who also use vegetarian diet and those who do not. Using cross-sectional data from the 2012 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) (N = 34,525), weighted frequencies for 12-month prevalence of vegetarian diet use among yoga practitioners were analyzed. Logistic regression analyses were used to analyze sociodemographic and clinical predictors of vegetarian diet use. A total of 1.7 million US yoga practitioners have used a vegetarian diet in the past 12 months (8.3%), compared to 2.7 million non-yoga practitioners (1.3%). Yoga practitioners who were aged between 30 and 64 years as compared to being 29 years or younger were more likely to have used a vegetarian diet in the past 12 months while those being in a relationship (OR = 0.64), overweight (OR = 0.54), smoking (OR 0.64) or having private health insurance (OR = 0.59) were less likely. Vegetarian diet practitioners more often included meditation as part of their yoga practice and more often chose yoga because it had a holistic focus, and was perceived to treat the cause and not the symptoms of their health complaint. Yoga practitioners following a vegetarian diet seem to embrace yoga more as a lifestyle than as a therapy.
Publisher: Georg Thieme Verlag KG
Date: 25-01-2017
Publisher: S. Karger AG
Date: 2016
DOI: 10.1159/000450818
Abstract: b i Background: /i /b Homeopathy use continues to grow in many European countries, and some studies have examined the characteristics of patients using homeopathy within the general population. The aim of this study was to identify predictors for homeopathy use among internal medicine patients. b i Patients and Methods: /i /b A cross-sectional analysis was conducted among all patients being referred to the Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine at Essen, Germany, over a 3-year period. The analysis examined whether patients had used homeopathy for their primary medical complaint before, the perceived benefit, and the perceived harm of homeopathy use. Odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were calculated using multiple logistic regression analysis. b i Results: /i /b Of 2,045 respondents, 715 (35.0%) reported having used homeopathy for their primary medical complaint (diagnosis according to the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems), with 359 (50.2%) reporting perceived benefits and 15 (2.1%) reporting harm. Homeopathy use was positively associated with female gender, high school level education, suffering from fibromyalgia or subthreshold depression, and being fast food abstinent, while patients with osteoarthritis, spinal or other pain, smokers, and patients with a high external-social health locus of control were less likely to use homeopathy. b i Conclusion: /i /b Personal characteristics and health status may impact on the use and the perceived helpfulness of homeopathy.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-12-2014
DOI: 10.1007/S00482-014-1432-4
Abstract: We updated a systematic review on the comparative efficacy, tolerability and safety of opioids and of their routes of application in chronic noncancer pain (CNCP). We screened MEDLINE, Scopus and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) up until October 2013, as well as the reference sections of original studies and systematic reviews of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of opioids in CNCP. We included randomized head-to-head comparisons of opioids (opioid of the sponsor of the study versus standard opioid) of at least 4 week's duration. Using a random effects model, absolute risk differences (RD) were calculated for categorical data and standardized mean differences (SMD) for continuous variables. The quality of evidence was rated by the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. We included 13 RCTs with 6748 participants. Median study duration was 15 weeks (range 4-56 weeks). Hydromorphone, morphine, oxymorphone and tapentadol were compared to oxycodone fentanyl to morphine and buprenorphine to tramadol. In pooled analysis, there were no significant differences between the two groups of opioids in terms of mean pain reduction (low-quality evidence), the patient global impression to be much or very much improved outcome (low-quality evidence), physical function (very low-quality evidence), serious adverse events (moderate-quality evidence) or mortality (moderate-quality evidence). There was no significant difference between transdermal and oral application of opioids in terms of mean pain reduction, physical function, serious adverse events, mortality (all low-quality evidence) or dropout due to adverse events (very low-quality). Pooled head-to-head comparisons of opioids (opioid of the sponsor of the study versus standard opioid) provide no rational for preferring one opioid and/or administration route over another in the therapy of patients with CNCP. The English full-text version of this article is freely available at SpringerLink (under "Supplemental").
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 02-12-2015
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 11-2016
DOI: 10.1097/AJP.0000000000000352
Abstract: Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee is one of the most common chronic diseases among older adults. This study aimed to test the effects of cabbage leaf wraps (CLWs) in the treatment of symptomatic OA. Patients with OA of the knee at stages II to III (Kellgren-Lawrence) were randomly assigned to 4 weeks of treatment with CLWs (daily for at least 2h), topical pain gel (TPG) (10 mg diclofenac/g, at least once daily), or usual care (UC). The primary outcome measure was pain intensity (VAS) after 4 weeks. Secondary outcomes included functional disability Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC), quality of life (SF-36), self-efficacy (Arthritis Self-Efficacy Scale-D), physical function (30 s Chair Stand Test), pressure pain sensitivity (PPT), satisfaction, and safety after 4 and 12 weeks. In total, 81 patients were included in this study (42 women, 65.9±10.3 y). After 4 weeks patients in the CLW group reported significantly less pain compared with those in the UC group (difference, −12.1 95% [confidence interval] CI, −23.1, −1.0 P =0.033) but not when compared with the TPG group (difference, −8.6 95% CI, −21.5, 4.4 P =0.190). Significant effects were also found in WOMAC, SF-36, 30-second Chair Stand Test, and PPT scores in the CLW group compared with the UC group. Compared with TPG, effects from CLW were found for WOMAC after 4 weeks and for quality of life after 12 weeks. Patients were satisfied with both active interventions, and except for 2 adverse events in both groups the applications were well tolerated. CLWs are more effective for knee OA than UC, but not compared with diclofenac gel. Therefore, they might be recommended for patients with OA of the knee. Further research is warranted.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.ACAP.2017.06.006
Abstract: Herbal medicines are particularly regarded as an alternative or complement to conventional pharmaceuticals in the treatment and prevention of respiratory tract infections (RTIs). Therefore, the purpose of this review was to identify evidence for herbal therapy in the treatment of RTIs concerning effectiveness and safety. Medline/PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library were searched through February 12, 2015. Randomized controlled trials that compared herbal therapy with no treatment, placebo, or any pharmaceutical medication in children and adolescents (age 0 to 18 years) with RTI were eligible. Eleven trials with 2181 participants were included. No clear evidence for Echinacea (4 trials) or an herbal compound preparation (1 trial) in preventing RTI symptoms was found. Meta-analysis revealed evidence for efficacy (responder rates: risk ratio [RR], 2.56 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.54-4.26 P < .01 heterogeneity: I Because of conflicting evidence in the included studies no concrete conclusion on effects of Echinacea could be drawn so far. In the case of Pelargonium sidoides, meta-analysis revealed moderate evidence for efficacy and safety in the treatment of RTIs in children.
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 05-09-2023
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.CTIM.2013.04.005
Abstract: The assessment of clinically meaningful differences in patients' self-reported outcomes has become increasingly important when interpreting the results of clinical studies. Although these assessments have become quite common there are hardly any data for nonspecific neck pain, especially in the context of complementary and alternative medicine. The aim of this analysis is the determination of minimal clinically important differences (MCID) and substantial clinical benefits (SCB) in patients with chronic nonspecific neck pain after cupping treatment. The data set comprised a total of 200 patients with chronic nonspecific neck pain participating in clinical trials on cupping therapy. The MCID and SCB for pain intensity (VAS), neck disability index (NDI) and the subscale bodily pain (SF-36-BP) as well as physical component summary (SF-36-PCS) of the SF-36 were determined using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis with an adapted assessment of change in health status (SF-36), i.e. a 5-point Likert scale ranging from "much better" to "much worse", as anchor. MCID derived from the ROC was the score to distinguish "somewhat better" from "about the same", and the SCB was the score to distinguish "much better" from "somewhat better". The calculated MCIDs were: -8mm (-21%) for VAS, -3 points (-10.2%) for NDI, +10 points (+20.5%) for SF-36-BP and +2.6 points (+7.7%) for SF-36-PCS. The SCBs were: -26.5mm (-66.8%) for VAS, -8.4 points (-29%) for NDI, +15.5 points (+43.1%) for SF-36-BP and +5.1 points (+12.9%) for SF-36-PCS. Accuracy of the estimations was good for MCID in general and for SCB regarding VAS and NDI. The results support the assumption that patients' perceptions of treatment benefits measured by VAS in these trials might be comparable to others in conventional therapies. For NDI and SF-36-PCS the estimated differences were smaller than in previous reports indicating that context factors such as patient characteristics and specific treatment conditions might play an important role. Further studies on MCIDS and SCBs for chronic nonspecific neck pain seem warranted.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2018
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.CTIM.2017.12.008
Abstract: This study aimed to determine whether the use of complementary medicine (CM) is associated with body satisfaction and weight management methods in Australian women. Women aged 34-39 years from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health were surveyed regarding satisfaction with their body weight and shape, and the use of weight management methods. Associations with CM use were analysed using logistic regression modelling. Women using CM less likely wanted to lose weight and were more likely to cut down on fats and/or sugars, use low glycaemic diets, diet books and 'other' methods (OR: 1.33-2.83) compared to CM non-users. Women using herbal medicine products 'sometimes' were more likely to use meal replacements/slimming products (OR: 1.50-1.67) compared to non-users. Australian women using CM are more likely to be satisfied with their body weight and shape, and to use a range of weight management approaches compared to CM non-users.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.CTIM.2015.04.009
Abstract: To identify socio-demographic and health-related factors associated with (a) acupuncture use and (b) the rated helpfulness of acupuncture among internal medicine patients. Data from a larger cross-sectional trial were reanalyzed. Patients who had used acupuncture for managing their primary medical complaint were compared to patients who had not. Predictors for (a) acupuncture use and (b) rated helpfulness were determined using logistic regression analyses. Of 2486 included patients, 51.49% reported acupuncture use and 39.22% reported no prior use. The use of acupuncture was associated with higher age, i.e. those aged 50-64 were more likely to have used acupuncture, while those younger than 30 were less likely. Patients with spinal pain, fibromyalgia, or headache were more likely to be acupuncture users while IBS patients were less likely. Patients with good to excellent health status, high external-social health locus of control and current smokers were less likely to have used acupuncture. Among those who had used acupuncture, 42.34% perceived the treatment as helpful, while 35.94% did not. Rated helpfulness was associated with female gender, full-time employment, high health satisfaction, and high internal health locus of control. Those with a diagnosis of osteoarthritis or inflammatory bowel disease were more likely to find acupuncture helpful those with headache or other types of chronic pain were less likely to find acupuncture helpful. Acupuncture was used by more than half of internal medicine patients. Prevalence and rated helpfulness of acupuncture use was associated with the patients' medical condition, sociodemography, and health locus of control.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 09-05-2019
DOI: 10.1002/PMRJ.12124
Abstract: The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies have been reported for the management of arthritis. However, little is known about CAM use among adults with self-reported doctor-diagnosed arthritis. To determine (1) the prevalence and type of CAM use, (2) the difference in characteristics between CAM users and non-CAM users, and (3) the factors related to CAM use, among U.S. adults with self-reported doctor-diagnosed arthritis. Secondary analysis of the 2012 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) data. The NHIS is a cross-sectional survey that gathers health-related data on the civilian, noninstitutionalized U.S. The NHIS 2012 uses a complex, multistage s ling design and overs les minorities to achieve population representation it included 34 525 adults, with 7179 adults having arthritis. Data were analyzed using Stata 15.1 survey syntax. The potential factors related to CAM use included sociodemographics and health-related characteristics. CAM modalities were categorized into six groups: natural products, manipulative therapies, mind-body therapies, special diets, movement therapies, and other practitioner-based CAM modalities. Of the adults with arthritis, 2428 (weighted estimate of 36.2% of U.S. adult population) had used CAM within the last year. Adults with arthritis reported greater use of CAM than those without, particularly the use of natural products, manipulative therapies and other practitioner-based CAM modalities. Factors associated with higher CAM use included being female, residing in regions other than the U.S. South, having a college degree or higher, reporting very good/excellent self-rated health status, and having current symptoms of joint stiffness ain. As more than one-third of U.S. adults with arthritis seek CAM therapies, open and nonjudgmental conversations between conventional medicine providers, CAM providers, and patients should be encouraged to ensure patient health care needs are being met. III.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 18-01-2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2019
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2021
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2007
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.CTIM.2014.06.005
Abstract: Coping with the complex nature of fibromyalgia symptoms (FMS) still remains a challenge for patients. Taking into account the possible adverse events of pharmacological treatments patients often seek additional treatments for the management of fibromyalgia and turn towards complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). In this review, we aimed to investigate the current state of literature of homeopathy in the treatment of FMS. We searched Medline, the Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials, Embase, AMED, PsycInfo and CAMbase for the terms "fibromyalgia AND homeopath$" through February 2013. In addition we searched Google Scholar, the library of the Carstens Foundation and that of the Deutsche Homöopathische Union (DHU). Standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated and meta-analyzed using the generic inverse variance method. We found 10 case-reports, 3 observational studies, 1 non-randomized and 4 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on homeopathy for fibromyalgia. Both case reports and observational studies are naturally predominated by the use of qualitative and not validated outcome measures. Meta-analyses of CCTs revealed effects of homeopathy on tender point count (SMD=-0.42 95%CI -0.78, -0.05 P=0.03), pain intensity (SMD=-0.54 95%CI -0.97, -0.10 P=0.02), and fatigue (SMD=-0.47 95%CI -0.90, -0.05 P=0.03) compared to placebo. The results of the studies as well as the case reports define a sufficient basis for discussing the possible benefits of homeopathy for patients suffering from fibromyalgia syndrome although any conclusions based on the results of this review have to be regarded as preliminary.
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 04-2016
Abstract: This study examined the prevalence, patterns, and predictors of t'ai chi and qigong use in the U.S. general population. Cross-sectional survey. Data from the 2012 National Health Interview Survey (n = 34,525). Weighted frequencies were used to analyze lifetime and 12-month prevalence and patterns of use. Independent predictors of practice were analyzed by using logistic regression models. Analyzes were conducted in 2015. The lifetime and 12-month prevalence of t'ai chi/qigong practice were 3.1% and 1.2%, respectively. The 12-month prevalence was associated with age older than 30 years being African American, Asian, or other ethnic origin living in the West being college educated and single and being a light to heavy alcohol consumer. Almost 39% of users attended formal classes. T'ai chi/qigong was practiced for wellness/disease prevention and to improve energy, immune function, athletic performance, or memory/concentration. Stress, arthritis, and joint problems were the most frequent specific health problems for practice. Despite an only marginal increase of t'ai chi/qigong practice in the United States over the past 10 years, the proportion of minorities among practitioners has increased significantly. Gaps between clinical application and research are discussed.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 08-07-2013
DOI: 10.1111/ECC.12093
Abstract: The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the effectiveness of exercise for colorectal cancer patients. PubMed/Medline, Scopus and the Cochrane Library were searched through December 2012 without language restrictions. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing exercise interventions to control conditions were analysed when they assessed health-related quality of life, fatigue, physical fitness, survival and/or tumour-associated biomarkers in colorectal cancer patients. Risk of bias was assessed using the risk of bias tool recommended by the Cochrane Back Review Group. Literature search identified 342 non-duplicate records of which five RCTs with a total of 238 patients were included three RCTs had low risk of bias. No evidence was found for short-term effects on quality of life [standardised mean difference (SMD) = 0.18 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.39, 0.76 P = 0.53] or fatigue (SMD = 0.18 95% CI -0.22, 0.59 P = 0.38). There was strong evidence for short-term improvements of physical fitness after aerobic exercise compared with controls (SMD = 0.59 95% CI 0.25, 0.93 P < 0.01). One RCT each assessed immune parameters and oxidative DNA damage. No study reported survival rates or safety data. Given this insufficient evidence and the lack of safety data, no recommendation can be made regarding exercise interventions as a routine intervention for colorectal cancer patients.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.IJCARD.2014.02.017
Abstract: The aim of this review was to systematically assess and meta-analyze the effects of yoga on modifiable biological cardiovascular disease risk factors in the general population and in high-risk disease groups. MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, and IndMED were screened through August 2013 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on yoga for predefined cardiovascular risk factors in healthy participants, non-diabetic participants with high risk for cardiovascular disease, or participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Forty-four RCTs with a total of 3168 participants were included. Risk of bias was high or unclear for most RCTs. Relative to usual care or no intervention, yoga improved systolic (mean difference (MD)=-5.85 mm Hg 95% confidence interval (CI)=-8.81, -2.89) and diastolic blood pressure (MD=-4.12 mm Hg 95%CI=-6.55, -1.69), heart rate (MD=-6.59 bpm 95%CI=-12.89, -0.28), respiratory rate (MD=-0.93 breaths/min 95%CI=-1.70, -0.15), waist circumference (MD=-1.95 cm 95%CI=-3.01, -0.89), waist/hip ratio (MD=-0.02 95%CI=-0.03, -0.00), total cholesterol (MD=-13.09 mg/dl 95%CI=-19.60, -6.59), HDL (MD=2.94 mg/dl 95%CI=0.57, 5.31), VLDL (MD=-5.70 mg/dl 95%CI=-7.36, -4.03), triglycerides (MD=-20.97 mg/dl 95%CI=-28.61, -13.32), HbA1c (MD=-0.45% 95%CI=-0.87, -0.02), and insulin resistance (MD=-0.19 95%CI=-0.30, -0.08). Relative to exercise, yoga improved HDL (MD=3.70 mg/dl 95%CI=1.14, 6.26). This meta-analysis revealed evidence for clinically important effects of yoga on most biological cardiovascular disease risk factors. Despite methodological drawbacks of the included studies, yoga can be considered as an ancillary intervention for the general population and for patients with increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 02-09-2014
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 06-08-2013
DOI: 10.1002/DA.22166
Abstract: Mind-body medical interventions are commonly used to cope with depression and yoga is one of the most commonly used mind-body interventions. The aim of this review was to systematically assess and meta-analyze the effectiveness of yoga for depression. Medline/PubMed, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, and IndMED were searched through January 2013. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of yoga for patients with depressive disorders and in iduals with elevated levels of depression were included. Main outcomes were severity of depression and remission rates, secondary outcomes were anxiety, quality of life, and safety. Twelve RCTs with 619 participants were included. Three RCTs had low risk of bias. Regarding severity of depression, there was moderate evidence for short-term effects of yoga compared to usual care (standardized mean difference (SMD) = -0.69 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.99, -0.39 P < .001), and limited evidence compared to relaxation (SMD = -0.62 95%CI -1.03, -0.22 P = .003), and aerobic exercise (SMD = -0.59 95% CI -0.99, -0.18 P = .004). Limited evidence was found for short-term effects of yoga on anxiety compared to relaxation (SMD = -0.79 95% CI -1.3, -0.26 P = .004). Subgroup analyses revealed evidence for effects in patients with depressive disorders and in in iduals with elevated levels of depression. Due to the paucity and heterogeneity of the RCTs, no meta-analyses on long-term effects were possible. No RCT reported safety data. Despite methodological drawbacks of the included studies, yoga could be considered an ancillary treatment option for patients with depressive disorders and in iduals with elevated levels of depression.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2009
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 05-10-2017
DOI: 10.2196/JMIR.6989
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 04-2013
DOI: 10.1111/PME.12053
Abstract: To assess the effects of a 9-week yoga intervention on chronic nonspecific neck pain 12 months after completion. Twelve-month follow-up of the pooled data of both arms of a randomized, controlled trial. Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine at an academic teaching hospital. Fifty-one patients with chronic nonspecific neck pain (mean age 47.8 years 82.4% female). A 9-week yoga group intervention. Neck pain intensity (100-mm visual analog scale), functional disability (neck disability index), health-related quality of life (short-form 36 questionnaire, SF-36), generic disability (days with restricted activities), and global improvement. From baseline to 12-month follow-up, pain intensity improved from 48.81 ± 17.71 to 32.31 ± 20.68 (P < 0.001), neck-related disability decreased from 25.26 ± 9.02 to 19.49 ± 11.52 (P = 0.001), and bodily pain in the SF-36 improved from 49.37 ± 12.40 to 59.26 ± 17.57 (P = 0.005). Improvements in pain intensity were predicted by weekly minutes of yoga practice during the past 4 weeks (r(2) = 0.12, P = 0.028) improved neck-related disability (r(2) = 0.24, P = 0.001) and bodily pain (r(2) = 0.26, P = 0.006) were predicted by regular yoga practice during the past 12 months. Generic disability did not decrease significantly. Twenty-four patients (68.6%) rated their health as at least somewhat improved. A 9-week yoga intervention improved pain and neck-related disability for at least 12 months after completion. Sustained yoga practice seems to be the most important predictor of long-term effectiveness.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.WOMBI.2015.07.184
Abstract: Common discomforts of pregnancy experienced in the lower extremity include sciatica, leg cr s and varicose veins. Whilst research attention has focused on aetiology and outcomes, the health service utilisation of pregnant women suffering from these complaints has been largely overlooked. To examine the health status and health service utilisation profile of pregnant women experiencing sciatica, leg cr s or varicose veins. Linear and logistic regression was applied to a cross-sectional survey of a pregnant women drawn from the 1973 to 1978 cohort (aged 31-36 years in 2009), of the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (n=1835). Participant's demographics, health status and health service utilisation were compared for all three complaints based upon three subgroups (yes, sought help yes, did not seek help no). A number of women experienced sciatica (22.1%), leg cr s (18.2%) or varicose veins (9.4%). Of these, a greater proportion of women with sciatica (79.3%) or varicose veins (71.5%) sought help for their condition compared with women with leg cr s (46.7%). Comparisons between women with the conditions of interest who did seek help and those who did not only found that women with a university degree were 0.29 (95% CI: 0.10, 0.85) times less likely to seek help for their condition compared to women with a school only education. Further research examining all health seeking behaviour and treatment use of pregnant women who experience lower extremity problems is required in order to facilitate safe, effective and coordinated maternity care to further support these women during pregnancy.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2016.03.013
Abstract: Overweight and obesity are among the most important modifiable risk factors for chronic diseases and premature death. The aim of this review was to systematically assess and analyze the effects of yoga on weight-related outcomes. Medline/PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library were screened through March 2015 for randomized controlled trials on yoga for weight-related outcomes in the general population or overweight/obese in iduals. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool on the following domains: selection bias, performance bias, detection bias, attrition bias, reporting bias, and other bias. Out of 445 records identified during literature search, 30 trials with a total of 2173 participants were included. No effects on weight, body mass index, body fat percentage or waist circumference were found. In studies with healthy adult participants an effect of yoga compared to usual care was found regarding waist/hip ratio (SMD=--1.00 95% CI=--1.44, -0.55 p<0.001). In studies with overweight/obese participants only, effects relative to usual care were found for body mass index (SMD=-0.99 95% CI=-1.67, -0.31 p=0.004). Effects however were not robust against selection bias and publication bias could not be ruled out. No intervention-related adverse events were reported. Despite methodological drawbacks, yoga can be preliminarily considered a safe and effective intervention to reduce body mass index in overweight or obese in iduals.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 23-07-2019
DOI: 10.1007/S11926-019-0846-5
Abstract: This study aims to systematically review and summarise the efficacy and safety of yoga for osteoarthritis. Medline (through PubMed), Scopus, and the Cochrane Library were searched through April 2018 for randomised controlled trials of yoga for osteoarthritis. Primary outcomes were pain intensity, function, and quality of life secondary outcomes were mental health and safety. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane tool and quality of evidence through GRADE. Nine trials including 640 in iduals with mainly lower extremity osteoarthritis aged 50-80 years were identified, with 80.3% female participants (median). Meta-analyses revealed very low-quality evidence for the effects of yoga on pain (vs. exercise: standardised mean difference (SMD) = - 1.07 95%CI - 1.92, - 0.21 p = 0.01 vs. non-exercise: SMD = - 0.75 95%CI - 1.18, - 0.31 p < 0.001), physical function (vs. exercise: SMD = 0.80 95%CI 0.36 1.24 p < 0.001 vs. non-exercise: SMD = 0.60 95%CI 0.30, 0.98 p < 0.001), and stiffness (vs. exercise: SMD = - 0.92 95%CI - 1.69, - 0.14 p = 0.008 vs. non-exercise: SMD = - 0.76 95%CI - 1.26, - 0.26 p = 0.003) in in iduals with knee osteoarthritis. Effects were not robust against potential methodological bias. No effects were found for quality of life, and depression, or for hand osteoarthritis. Safety was rarely reported. The findings of this meta-analysis indicate that yoga may be effective for improving pain, function, and stiffness in in iduals with osteoarthritis of the knee, compared to exercise and non-exercise control groups. Due to the low methodological quality and potential risk of bias, only a weak recommendation can be made at this time for the use of yoga in adults with osteoarthritis of the knee.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 2015
DOI: 10.1155/2015/610615
Abstract: Objectives. This systematic overview of reviews aimed to summarize evidence and methodological quality from systematic reviews of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for the fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). Methods. The PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and Scopus databases were screened from their inception to Sept 2013 to identify systematic reviews and meta-analyses of CAM interventions for FMS. Methodological quality of reviews was rated using the AMSTAR instrument. Results. Altogether 25 systematic reviews were found they investigated the evidence of CAM in general, exercised-based CAM therapies, manipulative therapies, Mind/Body therapies, acupuncture, hydrotherapy, phytotherapy, and homeopathy. Methodological quality of reviews ranged from lowest to highest possible quality. Consistently positive results were found for tai chi, yoga, meditation and mindfulness-based interventions, hypnosis or guided imagery, electromyogram (EMG) biofeedback, and balneotherapy/hydrotherapy. Inconsistent results concerned qigong, acupuncture, chiropractic interventions, electroencephalogram (EEG) biofeedback, and nutritional supplements. Inconclusive results were found for homeopathy and phytotherapy. Major methodological flaws included missing details on data extraction process, included or excluded studies, study details, and adaption of conclusions based on quality assessment. Conclusions. Despite a growing body of scientific evidence of CAM therapies for the management of FMS systematic reviews still show methodological flaws limiting definite conclusions about their efficacy and safety.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.MSKSP.2017.07.003
Abstract: The use of massage therapy is common, especially in patients with musculoskeletal pain. The purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence, utilization, socio-demographic and health-related predictors of massage practitioner consultations in the US population. Cross-sectional data from the 2012 National Health Interview Survey for adults (n = 34,525). Prevalence of massage practitioner utilization were 12.8% (lifetime) and 6.8% (last 12 months). Compared to non-users, those who used massage in the last year were more likely: female, at least high school educated, annual income ≥ US$ 15,000, diagnosed with spinal pain or arthritis, report moderate physical activity level as compared to low level, and consume alcohol as compared to being abstinent. Massage was mainly used for general wellness or disease prevention (56.3%), but also for specific, typically musculoskeletal, health problems (41.9%) for which 85.2% reported massage helped to some or a great deal. Most (59.1%) did not disclose massage use to their health care provider, despite 69.4% reporting massage therapy combined with medical treatment would be helpful. Approximately 7% (15.4 million) of US adults used massage therapy in the past year, mainly for general disease prevention, wellness or musculoskeletal pain. The majority of respondents reported positive outcomes of massage on specific health problems and overall well-being. Massage utilization was rarely covered by health insurance. Despite the majority of massage users considered massage therapy combined with medical care helpful, most did not disclose massage therapy use to their health care provider.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.CTIM.2013.08.001
Abstract: To assess sociodemographic, clinical, and psychological characteristics of patients with internal diseases who use relaxation techniques as a coping strategy. Cross-sectional analysis among patients with internal diseases. Department of Internal and Integrative Medicine at an academic teaching hospital in Germany. Prior use of relaxation techniques (e.g. meditation, autogenic training), perceived benefit, and perceived harm. Potential predictors of relaxation techniques use (sociodemographic characteristics, health behavior, internal medicine diagnosis, general health status, mental health, satisfaction, and health locus of control) were tested using multiple logistic regression analysis. Of 2486 participants, 1075 (43.2%) reported to have used relaxation techniques, 648 (60.3%) reported benefits, and 11 (1.0%) reported harms. Use of relaxation techniques was independently associated with female gender (Odds ratio [OR]=1.43 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.08-1.89), higher education (OR=1.32 95%CI=1.03-1.71), fibromyalgia (OR=1.78 95%CI=1.22-2.61), and internal health locus of control (OR=1.27 95%CI=1.01-1.60). Use of relaxation techniques was negatively associated with age below 30 (OR=0.32 95%CI=0.20-0.52) or above 64 (OR=0.65 95%CI=0.49-0.88), full-time employment (OR=0.75 95%CI=0.57-0.98), current smoking (OR=0.72 95%CI=0.54-0.95), osteoarthritis (OR=0.51 95%CI=0.34-0.77), rheumatic arthritis (OR=0.59 95%CI=0.37-0.93), good to excellent health status (OR=0.70 95%CI=0.52-0.96), and high life satisfaction (OR=0.78 95%CI=0.62-0.98). In a German s le of patients with internal diseases, relaxation techniques were used as a coping strategy by about 43%. Users were more likely to be middle-aged, female, well-educated, diagnosed with fibromyalgia, not smoking, not full-time employed, and not to have a good health status or high life satisfaction. A high internal health locus of control predicted relaxation techniques use. Considering health locus of control might improve adherence to relaxation techniques in internal medicine patients.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 29-09-2017
Abstract: Special diets are frequently used by the public but reasons for use and characteristics of users remain unclear. To determine prevalence of the use of special diets, the in idual characteristics associated with their use and reasons for use. The secondary analysis used data from the 2012 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), a cross-sectional household interview survey of a nationally representative s le of non-hospitalized US adult populations ( n = 34,525). The dependent variables in this secondary analysis were the use of a special diet (vegetarian, macrobiotic, Atkins, Pritikin, and Ornish) ever and during the past 12 months. Independent variables included sociodemographic, clinical and behavioral variables. Prevalence of special diet use and reasons for use were analyzed descriptively. Associations between independent and dependent variables were analyzed using Chi-square tests and logistic regression. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Lifetime and 12-month prevalence of using special diets were 7.5% (weighted n = 17.7 million) and 2.9% (weighted n = 6.9 million), respectively. In iduals using special diets in the past 12 months were more likely female (OR = 1.45 95% CI = 1.21-1.74), not married (OR = 0.76 95% CI = 0.63-0.91), college-educated (OR = 1.98 95% CI = 1.25-3.11) and depressed (OR = 1.50 95% CI = 1.14-1.98). They more likely also used herbal products (OR = 2.35 95%CI = 1.84-2.99), non-vitamin (OR = 1.82 95% CI = 1.45-2.27) and vitamin supplements (OR = 1.57 95% CI = 1.24-1.99). Diets were mainly used to improve overall health (76.7%) or for general wellness revention (70.4%). Special diets are mainly used for unspecific health reasons by those who are females, have a college degree or with depression, and commonly used in conjunction with herbs and dietary supplements.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.PSYCHRES.2022.114899
Abstract: Evidence exists reporting a high mental health burden among migrants globally. However, there is no global estimate of mental ill-health among African migrants despite their adverse pre-migration environments. This systematic review and meta-analysis summarise the current scholarship regarding the prevalence of anxiety, depression and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in the global African migrant population. We searched six databases (Medline (EBSCOHost), PsycINFO (EBSCOHost), Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health (CINAHL) from 1st January 2000 to 31st August 2021. We screened retrieved articles using strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. Study quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal tools. Random-effects meta-analyses were employed using DerSimonian and Laird estimator based on inverse variance weights. The I Our search retrieved 1091 articles, of which 46 were included representing a total of 28,367 African migrants. The weighted mean age of African migrants was 32.98 years, and nearly half were male (n= 12852, 45.31%). Among the included studies, almost nine out of ten (n=41, 89.1%) were cross-sectional studies. The pooled prevalence of anxiety, depression and PTSD was 34.60% %CI (26.30-43.00), 33.20% %CI (27.70-38.37) and 37.9% %CI (23.5- 52.4) respectively. Significant heterogeneity (I Despite significant heterogeneity among included studies, our systematic review and meta-analysis show a high prevalence of anxiety, depression, and PTSD among African migrants. Our findings underscore the need to develop and implement serious, culturally appropriate mental health interventions that address post-migration stressors that increase their risk of mental ill-health and successful integration into host communities.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 10-2012
DOI: 10.3747/CO.19.1016
Abstract: Objective: The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the effectiveness of mindfulness-based stress reduction (mbsr) and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (mbct) in patients with breast cancer. Methods: The medline, Cochrane Library, embase, cambase, and PsycInfo databases were screened through November 2011. The search strategy combined keywords for mbsr and mbct with keywords for breast cancer. Randomized controlled trials (rcts) comparing mbsr or mbct with control conditions in patients with breast cancer were included. Two authors independently used the Cochrane risk of bias tool to assess risk of bias in the selected studies. Study characteristics and outcomes were extracted by two authors independently. Primary outcome measures were health-related quality of life and psychological health. If at least two studies assessing an outcome were available, standardized mean differences (smds) and 95% confidence intervals (cis) were calculated for that outcome. As a measure of heterogeneity, I2 was calculated. Results: Three rcts with a total of 327 subjects were included. One rct compared mbsr with usual care, one rct compared mbsr with free-choice stress management, and a three-arm rct compared mbsr with usual care and with nutrition education. Compared with usual care, mbsr was superior in decreasing depression (smd: −0.37 95% ci: −0.65 to −0.08 p = 0.01 I2 = 0%) and anxiety (smd: −0.51 95% ci: −0.80 to −0.21 p = 0.0009 I2 = 0%), but not in increasing spirituality (smd: 0.27 95% ci: −0.37 to 0.91 p = 0.41 I2 = 79%). Conclusions: There is some evidence for the effectiveness of mbct in improving psychological health in breast cancer patients, but more rcts are needed to underpin those results.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.CTIM.2016.04.002
Abstract: Herbal medicines have been used widely for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients. The aim of this study is to investigate efficacy and safety of an Ayurvedic herbal compound preparation made from: Murraya koenigii (curry), Punica granatum (pomegranate) and Curcuma longa (turmeric), compared to a placebo in patients with diarrhoea predominant IBS. This trial was conducted as a randomised placebo-controlled crossover trial with randomised sequence of verum and placebo for each patient. Verum and placebo were provided as ground powders and delivered in sealed containers. Patients and outcome assessors were blinded. Patients were advised to ingest the decoction twice daily for 4 weeks. The primary outcome measure was IBS symptom intensity secondary outcomes included: quality of life, anxiety and depression, compliance and safety. 32 IBS patients were included in the trial (19 females, mean age 50.3±11.9years). Eleven people dropped out during the trial resulting in 37 complete verum and 35 complete placebo phases. No group differences were found between verum and placebo for IBS symptom intensity (difference 24.10 95% CI: -17.12 65.32, p=0.26). The same was true for secondary outcomes. Compliance was satisfactory to good and the preparation appeared to be safe, but one third of the patients registered at least one minor adverse event that might be related to the study interventions. An Ayurvedic herbal preparation made from Murraya koenigii, Punica granatum and Curcuma longa appeared to be no more effective in improving diarrhoea predominant irritable bowel symptoms than placebo.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2012
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2017
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 2013
DOI: 10.1155/2013/635182
Abstract: Objectives . The fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a chronic condition with only few evidence-based complementary and alternative therapies available. This paper presents a systematic review and meta-analysis of the effectiveness of Qigong for fibromyalgia syndrome. Methods . The PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Embase, PsycINFO, and Cambase databases were screened in December 2012 to identify randomized controlled trials comparing Qigong to control interventions. Major outcome measures were pain and quality of life and secondary outcomes included sleep quality, fatigue, depression, and safety. Standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Results . Seven trials were located with a total of 395 FMS patients. Analyses revealed low quality evidence for short-term improvement of pain, quality of life, and sleep quality and very low quality evidence for improvement of fatigue after Qigong for FMS, when compared to usual care. No evidence was found for superiority of Qigong compared to active treatments. No serious adverse events were reported. Discussion . This systematic review found that Qigong may be a useful approach for FMS patients. According to the quality of evidence, only a weak recommendation for Qigong can be made at this point. Further high quality RCTs are required for the conclusive judgment of its long-term effects.
Publisher: S. Karger AG
Date: 2014
DOI: 10.1159/000370079
Abstract: i Phytotherapy in the German Medical AWMF S3 Guidelines - a Systematic Overview /i In Deutschland werden an die interdisziplinär, evidenz- und konsensbasiert erstellten S3-Leitlinien der Arbeitsgemeinschaft der Wissenschaftlichen Medizinischen Fachgesellschaften (AWMF) höchste wissenschaftliche Ansprüche gestellt sie prägen die Gestaltung der Patientenversorgung. Phytotherapeutika haben in der medizinischen Versorgung im deutschsprachigen Raum eine große Tradition. Zunehmend existiert Evidenz für ihre Wirksamkeit bei verschiedenen Erkrankungen. Die vorliegende Übersichtsarbeit untersucht, in welchem Ausmaß pflanzliche Arzneimittel in den aktuellen S3-Leitlinien Berücksichtigung finden. Mittels Überprüfung aller verfügbaren S3-Leitlinien der AWMF wurden die Empfehlungen/Statements zu phytotherapeutischen Therapieoptionen von 2 unabhängigen Experten identifiziert und in 3 Kategorien eingeteilt: positive, negative und offene. Darüber hinaus wurden Ausführungen zu Nebenwirkungen und Interaktionen recherchiert. In 40 (31,3%) der 128 Leitlinien wird Phytotherapie benannt. In 55 Leitlinien (42,9%), in denen grundsätzlich phytotherapeutische Therapieoptionen bestehen, werden pflanzlichen Arzneimittel nicht berücksichtigt. Von insgesamt 204 Empfehlungen zu Phytotherapeutika fallen 139 (68,1%) negativ aus oder bleiben ergebnisoffen. Phytotherapie wird in 27 Leitlinien (67,5%) im jeweiligen Kapitel zu komplementären und alternativen Verfahren und/oder unter Sonstiges eingeordnet, in 7 Leitlinien (17,5%) steht sie am Ende der Empfehlungen zur medikamentösen Therapie, in 8 Leitlinien (20%) zwischen den Empfehlungen zu konventionellen Verfahren. Hinweise zu Neben- und Wechselwirkungen finden sich zu 70 der 204 Empfehlungen (34,3%). Weit weniger als die Hälfte der verfügbaren AWMF-S3-Leitlinien beinhalten eine Recherche zu Phytotherapeutika, nur in 17 S3-Leitlinien finden sich aktuell positive Empfehlungen. Eine systematische Aufarbeitung der vorhandenen Evidenz ist notwendig, um die adäquate Berücksichtigung der Phytotherapie in den medizinischen Leitlinien zu gewährleisten.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-04-2017
DOI: 10.1111/APT.14062
Abstract: Perceived stress seems to be a risk factor for exacerbation of ulcerative colitis. Yoga has been shown to reduce perceived stress. To assess the efficacy and safety of yoga for improving quality of life in patients with ulcerative colitis. A total of 77 patients (75% women 45.5 ± 11.9 years) with ulcerative colitis in clinical remission but impaired quality of life were randomly assigned to yoga (12 supervised weekly sessions of 90 min n = 39) or written self-care advice (n = 38). Primary outcome was disease-specific quality of life (Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire). Secondary outcomes included disease activity (Rachmilewitz clinical activity index) and safety. Outcomes were assessed at weeks 12 and 24 by blinded outcome assessors. The yoga group had significantly higher disease-specific quality of life compared to the self-care group after 12 weeks (Δ = 14.6 95% confidence interval=2.6-26.7 P = 0.018) and after 24 weeks (Δ = 16.4 95% confidence interval=2.5-30.3 P = 0.022). Twenty-one and 12 patients in the yoga group and in the self-care group, respectively, reached a clinical relevant increase in quality of life at week 12 (P = 0.048) and 27 and 17 patients at week 24 (P = 0.030). Disease activity was lower in the yoga group compared to the self-care group after 24 weeks (Δ = -1.2 95% confidence interval=-0.1-[-2.3] P = 0.029). Three and one patient in the yoga group and in the self-care group, respectively, experienced serious adverse events (P = 0.317) and seven and eight patients experienced nonserious adverse events (P = 0.731). Yoga can be considered as a safe and effective ancillary intervention for patients with ulcerative colitis and impaired quality of life. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02043600.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 13-07-2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.NUT.2016.09.007
Abstract: To analyze whether yoga or meditation use is associated with body (dis)satisfaction and weight control methods in Australian women. Women ages 34 to 39 y from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health were surveyed regarding body satisfaction, weight control behaviors, and yoga and meditation practice. Associations of body satisfaction and weight control methods with yoga/meditation practice were analyzed using chi-squared tests and multiple logistic regression modelling. Of the 8009 women, 49% were overweight or obese. Sixty-five percent of women with normal body mass index (BMI) and approximately 95% of women with overweight/obesity wanted to lose weight. At least one in four women with normal BMI was dissatisfied with body weight and shape, as were more than two in three women with overweight/obesity. The most common weight control methods included exercising (82.7%), cutting down meal sizes (76.8%), and cutting down sugars or fats (71.9%). Yoga/meditation was practiced frequently by 688 women (8.6%) and occasionally by 1176 women (14.7%). Yoga/meditation users with normal BMI were less likely dissatisfied with body weight and shape. All yoga/meditation users more likely exercised and followed a low glycemic diet or diet books and women with obesity occasionally using yoga/meditation also more likely used fasting or smoking to lose weight. Yoga/meditation users with normal BMI appear to be more satisfied with their body weight and shape than non-yoga/meditation users. While women with normal BMI or overweight tend to rely on healthy weight control methods, women with obesity occasional using yoga/meditation may more likely utilize unhealthy weight control methods.
Publisher: World Scientific Pub Co Pte Ltd
Date: 2012
DOI: 10.1142/S0192415X1250067X
Abstract: Gua Sha is a traditional East Asian healing technique where the body surface is "press-stroked" with a smooth-edged instrument to raise therapeutic petechiae that last 2–5 days. The technique is traditionally used in the treatment of both acute and chronic neck and back pain. This study aimed to measure the effects of Gua Sha therapy on the pain ratings and pressure pain thresholds of patients with chronic neck pain (CNP) and chronic low back pain (CLBP). A total of 40 patients with either CNP or CLBP (mean age 49.23 ± 10.96 years) were randomized to either a treatment group (TG) or a waiting list control group (WLC). At baseline assessment (T1), all patients rated their pain on a 10 cm visual analog scale (VAS). Patients' pressure pain thresholds (PPT) at a site of maximal pain (pain-maximum) and an adjacent (pain-adjacent) site were also established. The treatment group then received a single Gua Sha treatment. Post-intervention measurements were taken for both groups at T2, seven days after baseline assessment (T1), using the same VAS and PPT measurements in precisely the same locations as at T1. Final analysis were conducted with 21 patients with CNP and 18 patients with CLBP. The study groups were equally distributed with regard to randomization. Patients in both the CNP and the CLBP treatment groups reported pain reduction (p 0.05) and improved health status from their one Gua Sha treatment, as compared to the waiting list group. Pain sensitivity improved in the TG in CNP, but not in CLBP patients, possibly due to higher pressure sensitivity in the neck area. No adverse events were reported. These results suggest that Gua Sha may be an effective treatment for patients with chronic neck and low back pain. Further study of Gua Sha is warranted.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-09-2012
Publisher: American Medical Association (AMA)
Date: 05-09-2017
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 31-12-2019
DOI: 10.1186/S12891-019-3017-Y
Abstract: To systematically assess the evidence of Craniosacral Therapy (CST) for the treatment of chronic pain. PubMed, Central, Scopus, PsycInfo and Cinahl were searched up to August 2018. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effects of CST in chronic pain patients were eligible. Standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated for pain intensity and functional disability (primary outcomes) using Hedges’ correction for small s les. Secondary outcomes included physical/mental quality of life, global improvement, and safety. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane tool. Ten RCTs of 681 patients with neck and back pain, migraine, headache, fibromyalgia, epicondylitis, and pelvic girdle pain were included. CST showed greater post intervention effects on: pain intensity (SMD = -0.32, 95%CI = [− 0.61,-0.02]) and disability (SMD = -0.58, 95%CI = [− 0.92,-0.24]) compared to treatment as usual on pain intensity (SMD = -0.63, 95%CI = [− 0.90,-0.37]) and disability (SMD = -0.54, 95%CI = [− 0.81,-0.28]) compared to manual/non-manual sham and on pain intensity (SMD = -0.53, 95%CI = [− 0.89,-0.16]) and disability (SMD = -0.58, 95%CI = [− 0.95,-0.21]) compared to active manual treatments. At six months, CST showed greater effects on pain intensity (SMD = -0.59, 95%CI = [− 0.99,-0.19]) and disability (SMD = -0.53, 95%CI = [− 0.87,-0.19]) versus sham. Secondary outcomes were all significantly more improved in CST patients than in other groups, except for six-month mental quality of life versus sham. Sensitivity analyses revealed robust effects of CST against most risk of bias domains. Five of the 10 RCTs reported safety data. No serious adverse events occurred. Minor adverse events were equally distributed between the groups. In patients with chronic pain, this meta-analysis suggests significant and robust effects of CST on pain and function lasting up to six months. More RCTs strictly following CONSORT are needed to further corroborate the effects and safety of CST on chronic pain. CRD42018111975.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2021
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-07-2019
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 2012
DOI: 10.1155/2012/429718
Abstract: Introduction . Cupping has been used since antiquity in the treatment of pain conditions. In this pilot study, we investigated the effect of traditional cupping therapy on chronic nonspecific neck pain (CNP) and mechanical sensory thresholds. Methods . Fifty CNP patients were randomly assigned to treatment (TG, n = 25 ) or waiting list control group (WL, n = 25 ). TG received a single cupping treatment. Pain at rest (PR), pain related to movement (PM), quality of life (SF-36), Neck Disability Index (NDI), mechanical detection (MDT), vibration detection (MDT), and pressure pain thresholds (PPT) were measured before and three days after a single cupping treatment. Patients also kept a pain and medication diary (PaDi, MeDi) during the study. Results . Baseline characteristics were similar in the two groups. After cupping TG reported significantly less pain (PR: −17.9 mm VAS, 95%CI −29.2 to −6.6 PM: −19.7, 95%CI −32.2 to −7.2 PaDi: −1.5 points on NRS, 95%CI −2.5 to −0.4 all P 0.05 ) and higher quality of life than WL (SF-36, Physical Functioning: 7.5, 95%CI 1.4 to 13.5 Bodily Pain: 14.9, 95%CI 4.4 to 25.4 Physical Component Score: 5.0, 95%CI 1.4 to 8.5 all P 0.05 ). No significant effect was found for NDI, MDT, or VDT, but TG showed significantly higher PPT at pain-areas than WL (in lg(kPa) pain-maximum: 0.088, 95%CI 0.029 to 0.148, pain-adjacent: 0.118, 95%CI 0.038 to 0.199 both P 0.01 ). Conclusion . A single application of traditional cupping might be an effective treatment for improving pain, quality of life, and hyperalgesia in CNP.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 29-07-2019
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 04-12-2014
Abstract: We performed a systematic review for Complementary and Alternative Medicine [CAM] as defined by the National Institute of Health in Inflammatory Bowel Disease [IBD], ie Crohn's disease [CD] and ulcerative colitis [UC], with the exception of dietary and nutritional supplements, and manipulative therapies. A computerized search of databases [Cochrane Library, Pubmed/Medline, PsychINFO, and Scopus] through March 2014 was performed. We screened the reference sections of original studies and systematic reviews in English language for CAM in IBD, CD and UC. Randomized controlled trials [RCT] and controlled trials [CT] were referred and assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. A total of: 26 RCT and 3 CT for herbal medicine, eg aloe-vera gel, andrographis paniculata, artemisia absinthium, barley foodstuff, boswellia serrata, cannabis, curcumin, evening primrose oil, Myrrhinil intest®, plantago ovata, silymarin, sophora, tormentil, wheatgrass-juice and wormwood 1 RCT for trichuris suis ovata 7 RCT for mind/body interventions such as lifestyle modification, hypnotherapy, relaxation training and mindfulness and 2 RCT in acupuncture were found. Risk of bias was quite heterogeneous. Best evidence was found for herbal therapy, ie plantago ovata and curcumin in UC maintenance therapy, wormwood in CD, mind/body therapy and self-intervention in UC, and acupuncture in UC and CD. Complementary and alternative therapies might be effective for the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases however, given the low number of trials and the heterogeneous methodological quality of trials, further in-depth research is necessary.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2014
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-11-2016
DOI: 10.1038/SREP36760
Abstract: Emerging evidence suggests substantial health benefits from using meditation. While there are some indications that the popularity of meditation is increasing, little is known about the prevalence, patterns, and predictors of meditation use in the general population. In this secondary analysis of data from the 2012 US National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) (n = 34,525), lifetime and 12-month prevalence of meditation use were 5.2% and 4.1%, respectively. Compared to non-users, those who had used meditation in the past 12 months were more likely to be 40–64 years, female, non-Hispanic White, living in the West, at least college-educated, not in a relationship, diagnosed with one or more chronic conditions, smoking, consuming alcohol and physically active. Meditation was mainly used for general wellness (76.2%), improving energy (60.0%), and aiding memory or concentration (50.0%). Anxiety (29.2%), stress (21.6%), and depression (17.8%) were the top health problems for which people used meditation 63.6% reported that meditation had helped a great deal with these conditions. Only 34.8% disclosed their use of meditation with a health provider. These findings indicate that about 9.3 million US adults have used meditation in the past 12 months and that mental health problems were the most important reason for meditation use.
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 03-2018
Abstract: Despite the recent re-emergence of the process of cupping by athletes, supporting evidence for its efficacy and safety remains scarce. This systematic review aims to summarize the evidence of clinical trials on cupping for athletes. SCOPUS, Cochrane Library, PubMed, AMED, and CNKI databases were searched from their inception to December 10, 2016. Randomized controlled trials on cupping therapy with no restriction regarding the technique, or cointerventions, were included, if they measured the effects of cupping compared with any other intervention on health and performance outcomes in professionals, semi-professionals, and leisure athletes. Data extraction and risk of bias assessment using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool were conducted independently by two pairs of reviewers. Eleven trials with n = 498 participants from China, the United States, Greece, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates were included, reporting effects on different populations, including soccer, football, and handball players, swimmers, gymnasts, and track and field athletes of both amateur and professional nature. Cupping was applied between 1 and 20 times, in daily or weekly intervals, alone or in combination with, for ex le, acupuncture. Outcomes varied greatly from symptom intensity, recovery measures, functional measures, serum markers, and experimental outcomes. Cupping was reported as beneficial for perceptions of pain and disability, increased range of motion, and reductions in creatine kinase when compared to mostly untreated control groups. The majority of trials had an unclear or high risk of bias. None of the studies reported safety. No explicit recommendation for or against the use of cupping for athletes can be made. More studies are necessary for conclusive judgment on the efficacy and safety of cupping in athletes.
No related grants have been discovered for Romy Lauche.