Loading...
Patients' perceptions on non-specific effects of acupuncture: Qualitative comparison between responders and non-responders
Ho, Robin S. T. Ho, Fai Fai Adams, Jon Cramer, Holger Leung, Brenda Ward, Lesley Zhang, Yan Chung, Vincent C. H.
Ho, Robin S. T.
Ho, Fai Fai
Adams, Jon
Cramer, Holger
Leung, Brenda
Ward, Lesley
Zhang, Yan
Chung, Vincent C. H.
Citations
Altmetric:
Soloist
Composer
Publisher
Elsevier
Date
2022
Additional date(s)
Abstract
Background: Non-specific effect of acupuncture constitutes part of the overall effect generated via clinical encounter beyond needle insertion and stimulation. It is unclear how responders and non-responders of acupuncture experience non-specific effects differently. We aimed to compare their experiences in a nested qualitative study embedded in an acupuncture randomized trial on functional dyspepsia. Methods: Purposive sampling was used to capture experience of responders (n = 15) and non-responders (n = 15) to acupuncture via individual in-depth interviews. Design and analysis followed a framework analysis approach, with reference to an existing model on acupuncture non-specific effects. Themes emerging outside of this model were purposefully explored. Results: Responders had a more trusting relationship with acupuncturist in response to their expression of empathy. In turn they were more actively engaged in lifestyle modifications and dietary advice offered by acupuncturists. Non-responders were not satisfied with the level of reassurance regarding acupuncture safety. They were also expecting more peer support from fellow participants, regarded that as an empowerment process for initiating and sustaining lifestyle changes. Conclusions: Our results highlighted key differences in acupuncture non-specific effect components experienced by responders and non-responders. Positive non-specific effects contributing to overall benefits could be enhanced by emphasizing on empathy expression from acupuncturists, trust-building, offering appropriate explanations on safety, and organizing patient support groups. Further research on the relative importance of each component is warranted. (C) 2021 Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine. Published by Elsevier B.V.
Contents
Subject
Acupuncture
Physician-patient relations
Qualitative study
Randomized trial
Nocebo effect
Placebo effect
Self care
Empathy
Physician-patient relations
Qualitative study
Randomized trial
Nocebo effect
Placebo effect
Self care
Empathy