Is Craniosacral Therapy Effective? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of craniosacral therapy (CST) in the management of any conditions. METHODS: Two independent reviewers searched the PubMed, Physiotherapy Evidence Database, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Osteopathic Medicine Digital Library databases in August 2023, and extracted data from randomized controlled trials (RCT) evaluating the clinical effectiveness of CST. The PEDro scale and Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 tool were used to assess the potential risk of bias in the included studies. The certainty of the evidence of each outcome variable was determined using GRADEpro. Quantitative synthesis was carried out with RevMan 5.4 software using random effect models. DATA SYNTHESIS: Fifteen RCTs were included in the qualitative and seven in the quantitative synthesis. For musculoskeletal disorders, the qualitative and quantitative synthesis suggested that CST produces no statistically significant or clinically relevant changes in pain and/or disability/impact in patients with headache disorders, neck pain, low back pain, pelvic girdle pain, or fibromyalgia. For non-musculoskeletal disorders, the qualitative and quantitative synthesis showed that CST was not effective for managing infant colic, preterm infants, cerebral palsy, or visual function deficits. CONCLUSIONS: The qualitative and quantitative synthesis of the evidence suggest that CST produces no benefits in any of the musculoskeletal or non-musculoskeletal conditions assessed. Two RCTs suggested statistically significant benefits of CST in children. However, both studies are seriously flawed, and their findings are thus likely to be false positive.

Complementary and alternative therapies for managing postoperative pain after lower third molar surgery: a systematic review and network meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of complementary and alternative treatments on postoperative pain following lower third molar surgeries. METHODS: A comprehensive search of Electronic databases (Embase, MEDLINE via PubMed, and Cochrane Library) and grey literature was conducted up until May 2022. Randomized clinical trials investigating the effect of acupuncture, ozone therapy, laser (LLLT), drainage tube, kinesio-taping, ice therapy, and compressions on pain after LTM surgeries were included. The estimated mean differences (MD) for alternative therapies were pooled using the frequentist approach to random-model network meta-analysis NMA. RESULTS: Eighty-two papers were included in the qualitative analysis; 33 of them were included in the quantitative analyzes. NMA revealed that drainage tube and kinesio-taping were superior in controlling pain 24-hours postoperatively than no-treatment. At 48-hours follow-up, kinesio-taping and LLLT more effective than placebo and drainage tube; and kinesio-taping and LLLT were superior to no treatment. At 72 h postoperatively, ozone therapy was superior to placebo; and drainage tube, kinesio-taping, and LLLT were better than no treatment. At 7-days follow-up, ozone and LLLT were superior to placebo; and LLLT and kinesio-taping were superior to no treatment. The SUCRA-ranking placed drainage tube as top-ranking intervention at 48-hours (98.2%) and 72-hours (96%) follow-ups, and ozone (83.5%) at 7-days follow-up. CONCLUSION: The study findings suggest that these alternative and complementary therapies may be useful in reducing postoperative pain after LTM surgeries, and may offer advantages when combined to traditional pain management methods. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Non-pharmacological therapies are gaining popularity among healthcare professionals and patients. This study found that some of these therapies, specifically kinesio-taping and drainage tube were effective in controlling postoperative pain after third molar surgeries. These findings have important implications for clinical practice, as they highlight the potential benefits of incorporating these therapies into postoperative pain management plans.

Guided Imagery for Symptom Management of Patients with Life-Limiting Illnesses: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Background: Patients with life-limiting illnesses receiving palliative care have a high symptom burden that can be challenging to manage. Guided imagery (GI), a complementary and integrative therapy in which patients are induced to picture mental images with sensory components, has proven in quasi-experimental studies to be effective as a complementary therapy for symptom management. Objective: To systematically review randomized controlled trials that report evidence of guided imagery for symptom management in patients with life-limiting illnesses. Methods: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guideline was followed for this review and the search strategy was applied in Medline, CINHAL, and Web of Science. The quality of articles was evaluated using the Cochrane Collaboration's Risk-of-Bias Tool 2 (RoB 2). The results are presented using the Guidance on the Conduct of Narrative Synthesis in Systematic Reviews. Results: A total of 8822 studies were initially identified through the search strategy, but after applying exclusion criteria, 14 randomized controlled trials were included in this review. The quality assessment revealed that four studies had a high risk of bias, nine had some concerns, and one had a low risk of bias. Out of the 14 studies, 6 evaluated oncological diagnosis, while the remaining 8 focused on nononcological diagnoses across 6 different diseases. GI was found to be effective in managing symptoms in 10 out of the 14 studies. Regardless of the disease stage, patients who received guided imagery experienced relief from anxiety, depression, pain, sleep disturbances, and fatigue. Conclusion: GI therapy has shown promising results regarding symptom management in palliative care patients with life-limiting illnesses at different stages.

Complementary and alternative medicine use among cancer patients in Iran: A systematic review.

Background: Cancer patients frequently turn to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to mitigate the adverse effects of conventional cancer treatments, alleviate stress, manage comorbidities, and address the cancer itself. This systematic review aims to investigate descriptive studies conducted in Iran, focusing on the prevalence and methods of CAM use among cancer patients. Methods: A thorough search of PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Magiran, and the Scientific Information Database (SID) was conducted in both English and Persian from inception to July 2023. Inclusion criteria targeted studies exploring the frequency and patterns of CAM utilization among Iranian patients across diverse cancer types. Results: A total of 604 articles were found in the preliminary search, and 14 were included in this review. Among the 3,990 participants in the included studies, a weighted average of 51.83% (range 4.6%-100%) had used at least one CAM method. The most commonly used CAM methods were prayer (41.8%), medicinal herbs (30.1%), traditional and folk treatments (27.2%), bloodletting (17.3%), and hydrotherapy (13%). Patients reported using CAM for various reasons, including their beliefs, desire to cure the disease, reduce stress, positive past experiences, and improve physical condition. On average, 39% of patients informed their physicians about their CAM use. Conclusion: The findings underscore the relatively prevalent adoption of CAM by Iranian cancer patients. Given the low rate of disclosure to physicians, there is a compelling need for healthcare system vigilance and monitoring to ensure comprehensive patient care.

Efficacy and Safety of Traditional Chinese Medicines as a Complementary Therapy Combined With Chemotherapy in the Treatment of Gastric Cancer: An Overview of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses.

BACKGROUND: In China, traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs), as a complementary therapy combined with chemotherapy, is widely used in the treatment of gastric cancer (GC). In order to systematically evaluate and synthesize existing evidence to provide a scientific basis for the efficacy and safety of this complementary therapy, we present an overview of systematic reviews (SRs) and meta-analyses (MAs) on the topic of TCMs as a complementary therapy in combination with chemotherapy for the treatment of GC. METHODS: SRs/MAs on TCMs combined with chemotherapy for GC were comprehensively searched in 8 databases. Methodological quality, risk of bias, reporting quality, and quality of evidence were assessed using the Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews 2 (AMSTAR-2), the Risk of Bias in Systematic (ROBIS) scale, the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 (PRISMA 2020), as well as the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system. RESULTS: Thirteen published SRs/MAs were included in our study. In terms of methodology, all SRs/MAs were considered to be of very low quality. Only 3 SRs/MAs has been assessed as low risk of bias. None of the SRs/MAs has been fully reported on the checklist. A total of 97 outcome indicators extracted from the included SRs/MAs were evaluated, and only 1 item was assessed as high quality. CONCLUSIONS: TCMs may be an effective and safe complementary therapy in combination with chemotherapy for the treatment of GC. However, this conclusion must be treated with caution as the quality of the evidence provided by SRs/MAs is generally low.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use, Cancer Screening, and Medical Checkups in Japan from 2001 to 2013: A Repeated Cross-Sectional Study.

Introduction: The association between complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use and other health-related behaviors is an important issue. A previous study reported that complementary medicine use is related to greater use of cancer screening, whereas alternative medicine use is related to lower use of cancer screening. Given the sparse evidence from Japan, we aimed to examine the association of CAM use with cancer screening and medical checkups. We used a repeated cross-sectional survey of a nationally representative sample of Japanese people and conducted age-period-cohort analysis. Methods: The study population was 68,217 of 83,827 individuals observed from 2001 to 2013 who received cancer screening. CAM users were defined as individuals who received acupuncture, moxibustion, anma/massage/shiatsu, or judo therapy for their most worrisome symptom. The outcomes of interest were receiving stomach, lung, colorectal, uterine, and breast cancer screenings and medical checkups. Using crossclassified multilevel logistic regression models, we estimated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% credible intervals (CIs) for cancer screening and medical checkups. Results: For CAM users of complementary medicine, the adjusted ORs for stomach, lung, and colorectal cancer screening were 1.40 (95% CI: 1.35-1.44), 1.37 (95% CI: 1.34-1.40), and 1.52 (95% CI: 1.49-1.54), respectively. We found similar results for uterine and breast cancer screening, and medical checkups. Conclusions: Irrespective of whether they use CAM, CAM users in Japan tend to receive a variety of cancer screenings and medical checkups.

Efetividade da terapia Reiki para ansiedade pré-operatória na cirurgia cardíaca: ensaio clínico randomizado / Efectividad de la terapia de reiki para ansiedad preoperatoria en cirugía cardíaca: ensayo clínico aleatorizado / Effectiveness of Reiki therapy for preoperative anxiety in cardiac surgery: a randomized clinical trial

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar a efetividade de um protocolo de Reiki nos níveis de ansiedade no período pré-operatório de cirurgia cardíaca. Métodos Ensaio clínico controlado e randomizado realizado em um hospital universitário de referência em cardiologia entre junho e dezembro de 2021. Foi realizada randomização em bloco e alocação por sorteio com envelopes selados opacos em dois grupos: Controle (n=44; não submetido a intervenção) e Intervenção (n=44; submetido a duas sessões de Reiki três dias antes e na véspera da cirurgia). Os desfechos principais (ansiedade, bem-estar e tensão muscular) foram avaliados ao longo das sessões usando um modelo de efeitos mistos. Para avaliar o tamanho do efeito foram calculados os valores parciais de eta quadrado (η2p). Resultados Foram determinadas as diferenças nos escores de ansiedade (+2,7 pontos a mais para o controle), bem-estar (-0,78) e tensão muscular (1,27), sendo consideradas estatisticamente significativas (p<0,001). Na análise do tamanho do efeito, o experimento distinguiu melhor a variação na variável ansiedade (η2p=0,74) que nas outras duas variáveis (η2p=0,14; η2p=0,23). Conclusão O estudo oferece evidência favorável para efetividade do Reiki no controle da ansiedade pré-operatória de cirurgia cardíaca.

Resumen Objetivo Evaluar la efectividad de un protocolo de reiki en los niveles de ansiedad en el período preoperatorio de cirugías cardíacas. Métodos Ensayo clínico controlado y aleatorizado, realizado en un hospital universitario de referencia en cardiología entre junio y diciembre de 2021. La aleatorización se realizó por bloques y la asignación por sorteo con sobres cerrados opacos en dos grupos: Control (n=44, sin intervención) y Experimental (n=44, sometidos a dos sesiones de reiki, una tres días antes y otra en la víspera de la cirugía). Los criterios de valoración principales (ansiedad, bienestar y tensión muscular) fueron evaluados a lo largo de las sesiones, mediante un modelo de efectos mixtos. Para evaluar el tamaño del efecto se calcularon los valores parciales de eta cuadrado (η2p). Resultados Se observaron diferencias en la puntuación de ansiedad (+2,7 puntos más en el grupo de control), bienestar (-0,78) y tensión muscular (1,27), consideradas estadísticamente significativas (p<0,001). En el análisis del tamaño del efecto, el estudio percibió mejor la variación en la variable ansiedad (η2p=0,74) que en las otras dos variables (η2p=0,14; η2p=0,23). Cirugía El estudio ofrece evidencias favorables para la efectividad del reiki en el control de la ansiedad preoperatoria de cirugías cardíacas. Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos: RBR-2nhgvn6

Abstract Objective To assess the effectiveness of a Reiki protocol on anxiety levels in the preoperative period of cardiac surgery. Methods This is a controlled and randomized clinical trial carried out in a university reference hospital in cardiology between June and December 2021. Chunk randomization and allocation by draw with opaque sealed envelopes were carried out in two groups: Control (n=44; not subjected to intervention); and Intervention (n=44; submitted to two Reiki sessions three days before and the day before surgery). The main outcomes (anxiety, well-being and muscle tension) were assessed across sessions using a mixed effects model. To assess the effect size, partial eta squared (η2p) values were calculated. Results Differences in anxiety scores (+2.7 points more than the control), well-being (-0.78) and muscle tension (1.27) were determined, being considered statistically significant (p<0.001). In analyzing the effect size, the experiment better distinguished the variation in the anxiety variable (η2p=0.74) than in the other two variables (η2p=0.14; η2p=0.23). Conclusion The study offers favorable evidence for the effectiveness of Reiki in controlling preoperative anxiety after cardiac surgery. Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry: RBR-2nhgvn6

Práticas integrativas e complementares em saúde entre estudantes universitários: motivos de uso e de não uso / Integrative and complementary health practices among university students: reasons for use or non-use

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo é compreender os motivos de uso e não uso das práticas integrativas e complementares entres estudantes universitários da área da saúde. Trata-se de uma pesquisa quanti-qualitativa, com dados coletados por meio de questionários (667) e entrevistas (34) e submetidos à análise de conteúdo. Os efeitos terapêuticos, a influência familiar e a oferta de alternativa à biomedicina foram as principais razões elencadas para o uso das práticas integrativas e complementares, ao tempo que a ausência de demanda, o desinteresse e a falta de oportunidade foram as motivações mais frequentes para o não uso. Nesse sentido, as motivações de uso enfatizam as vantagens obtidas através da interlocução com essas práticas e alguns contextos que determinam sua adoção. Em relação às motivações de não uso, destaca-se um cenário de baixa oferta e dominância da biomedicina na cultura ocidental contemporânea. Portanto, esses resultados corroboram a demanda de enfrentamento da monocultura da biomedicina, bem como a abordagem das práticas integrativas na educação superior. Desse modo, a universidade pode se construir a partir da tessitura entre diferentes culturas em saúde, com a facilitação do emprego das práticas não hegemônicas e a ampliação das bases epistêmicas de cuidado na formação e vida da comunidade acadêmica.

Abstract The objective of this study is to understand the reasons for use or non-use of the integrative and complementary practices among university health students. It is a quantitative and qualitative research, with data collected with questionnaires (667) and interviews (34), and investigated by content analysis. Therapeutic effects, family influence, and offer of alternatives to biomedicine were the main reasons for use of integrative and complementary practices, while the absence of demand, disinterest, and lack of opportunity were the most frequent barriers for use. Therefore, the motivations for use emphasize advantages obtained with these practices and some contexts that determine their adoption. Regarding the barriers for use, a scenario of low availability and dominance of biomedicine in contemporary western culture stands out. Therefore, these results corroborate the demand to confront the monoculture of biomedicine, as well as the inclusion of integrative practices in higher health education. Thus, university can be built on dialogues between different cultures in health, facilitating the use of non-hegemonic practices and expanding the epistemic bases of care in the formation and the life of the academic community.

Care Management in Scientific Production in Integrative Oncology in Latin America: An Integrative Review

Introduction: Including traditional, complementary and integrative medicines in national health systems is a point of discussion worldwide. This article focuses on the theme within the scope of oncology in Latin America. Objective: To analyze the health care management dimensions included in scientific production in integrative oncology in Latin America. Materials and method: This is an integrative literature review carried out in the LILACS, Mosaico, IBECS, PubMed and Embase databases, whose guiding question was prepared according to The PRISMA 2020 Statement recommendations. The search occurred by the association of free terms related to the descriptors "Integrative Oncology," "Complementary Therapies," "Health Care," "Care Management," and "Countries That Make Up Latin America." Data were interpreted from the conceptual perspective of health care management dimensions. Results: The study selection process identified 206 studies. The final sample was made up of eight articles available online in full, published between 2017 and 2022 in Portuguese, Spanish or English. Articles were developed in Brazil (n = 4), Chile, Colombia, Peru, and Uruguay (n = 1, respectively). There was a predominance of the individual health care management dimension as the focus of analyzed studies. The "professional," "family," "societal," and "organizational" dimensions were presented in the discussion of results. Conclusions: Despite the insufficiency of studies, analysis of interdependence between dimensions indicates the complexity of the management process for integrating traditional, complementary and integrative medicine in oncological care in Latin America, which suggests an epistemology in the construction process.

Introducción: la inclusión de las medicinas tradicionales, complementarias e integrativas en los sistemas nacionales de salud es un punto de discusión en el contexto mundial. En este artículo, el tema se centra en la oncología en Latinoamérica. Objetivo: analizar las dimensiones de la gestión de la salud contempladas en la producción científica sobre oncología integrativa en Latinoamérica. Materiales y método: se trata de una revisión bibliográfica integrativa en las bases de datos Lilacs, Mosaico, IBECS, PubMed y Embase, cuya pregunta orientadora se elaboró de acuerdo con las recomendaciones de The PRISMA 2020 Statement. La búsqueda se realizó asociando términos libres relacionados con los descriptores "oncología integrativa", "prácticas complementarias e integrativas", "atención a la salud", "gestión de la atención" y "países que conforman América Latina". Se interpretaron los datos desde la perspectiva conceptual de las dimensiones de la gestión de la atención en salud. Resultados: el proceso de selección de estudios resultó en la identificación de 206 producciones. La muestra final consistió en ocho artículos disponibles en línea, en su totalidad, publicados entre 2017 y 2022, en portugués, español o inglés. Los artículos se desarrollaron en Brasil (n = 4), así como en Chile, Colombia, Perú y Uruguay (n = 1, respectivamente). Hubo un predominio de la dimensión individual de la gestión de la atención como foco de los estudios analizados. Las dimensiones "profesional", "familiar", "social" y "organizacional" se presentaron en la discusión de los resultados. Conclusiones: a pesar de la falta de publicaciones, el análisis de la interdependencia entre las dimensiones indica la complejidad del proceso de gestión para la integración de la medicina tradicional, complementaria e integrativa en la atención oncológica en Latinoamérica, lo que sugiere una epistemología en proceso de construcción.

Introdução: a inserção das medicinas tradicionais, complementares e integrativas nos sistemas nacionais de saúde é ponto de discussão no contexto global. Neste artigo, focaliza-se a temática no âmbito da oncologia na América Latina. Objetivo: analisar as dimensões da gestão no cuidado em saúde contempladas na produção científica em oncologia integrativa na América Latina. Materiais e método: trata-se de revisão integrativa da literatura nas bases de dados Lilacs, Mosaico, IBECS, PubMED e Embase, cuja questão orientadora foi elaborada conforme recomendações do The PRISMA 2020 Statement. A busca ocorreu por associação de termos livres relacionados aos descritores "oncologia integrativa", "práticas complementares e integrativas", "atenção à saúde", "gestão do cuidado" e "países que integram a América Latina". Os dados foram interpretados na perspectiva conceitual das dimensões da gestão do cuidado em saúde. Resultados: o processo de seleção dos estudos resultou na identificação de 206 produções. A amostra final foi composta de de oito artigos disponíveis on-line, na íntegra, publicados entre 2017 e 2022, em português, espanhol ou inglês. Os artigos foram desenvolvidos no Brasil (n = 4), no Chile, na Colômbia, no Peru e no Uruguai (n = 1, respectivamente). Evidenciou-se predomínio da dimensão individual da gestão do cuidado como enfoque dos estudos analisados. As dimensões "profissional", "familiar", "societária" e "organizacional" se apresentaram na discussão dos resultados. Conclusões: apesar da insuficiência de publicações, a análise da interdependência entre as dimensões indica a complexidade do processo de gestão para a integração da medicina tradicional, complementar e integrativa na atenção oncológica na América Latina, o que sugere uma epistemologia em processo de construção.

Los significados de la menopausia, una mirada desde la teoría de las transiciones

Introducción: La menopausia es una etapa, si bien normal, de profundos cambios en la vida de la mujer; la transición hacia la menopausia impone un reto al profesional de enfermería, encaminado a promover la salud, facilitar la transición y apoyar la búsqueda de solución a las necesidades que se presentan. Objetivo: El presente estudio está orientado a comprender los significados de la menopausia en mujeres de Armenia, Quindío, Colombia. Metodología: Se utilizó un enfoque cualitativo, fenomenológico e interpretativo desde la teoría de las transiciones de Meléis. Se efectuaron entrevistas a profundidad a seis mujeres de Armenia, previo consentimiento informado, con muestreo intencional, grabación y diario de campo; la información se analizó con apoyo de la base de datos ATLAS.ti, mediante codificación, categorización inductiva, triangulación y contestación con la literatura. Resultados: Se encontró una percepción negativa de la menopausia por sensación de fogajes, desasosiego, depresión y disfunción sexual; para los síntomas recurren a terapias complementarias y medicación, al respecto, algunas refieren una experiencia tranquilizadora y agradable. Urgen redes de acompañamiento en salud para promoción, prevención y apoyo familiar. Las participantes solicitan programas educativos específicos desde edades tempranas. Discusión: Los resultados coinciden con la literatura en cuanto a la experiencia de las participantes y la necesidad de apoyo y orientación. Desde la teoría de Meléis, la transición es de desarrollo, organizacional, con patrones múltiples, simultáneos y relacionados. La experiencia fue sentida y vivida negativamente, se necesitan espacios de análisis, reflexión y acompañamiento desde edades tempranas, para deconstruir el concepto de menopausia y climaterio como problema de salud, y abordarlo como evento vital y de renacimiento, como apertura a una nueva forma de vivir, con estilos de vida saludables. Conclusiones: Se concluye que la menopausia es percibida y experimentada como una etapa de ansiedad, desasosiego, tristeza y desesperanza, por el poco acompañamiento, deficiente educación y preparación de la mujer; las mujeres adultas "menopaúsicas" son poco reconocidas, rechazadas, y muchas veces solo toleradas por personas cercanas. Urgen redes de acompañamiento en salud.

Introduction: Menopause is a stage, although normal, of profound changes in a woman's life. The transition to menopause imposes a challenge on the nursing professional, aimed at promoting health, facilitating the transition and supporting the search for a solution to the needs that arise. Objective: The present study is aimed at understanding the meanings of menopause in women from Armenia, Quindio Department, Colombia. Metodology: A qualitative, phenomenological and interpretative approach was used, based on Meleis's theory of transitions. In-depth interviews were carried out on six women from Armenia, with prior informed consent, with intentional sampling, recording, and field diary; the information was analyzed with support of the ATLAS.ti database, through coding, inductive categorization, triangulation, and comparison with the literature. Results: A negative perception of menopause was found due to hot flashes, restlessness, depression and sexual dysfunction; for the symptoms they resort to complementary therapies and medication, as a result, some report a calming and pleasant experience; health accompaniment networks are urgently needed for promotion and prevention, and family support. They request specific educational programs from an early age. Discussion. The results coincide with the literature regarding the experience of the participants and the need for support and guidance. From Meleis's theory, the transition is developmental, organizational, with multiple, simultaneous and related patterns. The experience was felt and lived negatively, spaces for analysis, reflection and accompaniment are needed from an early age, to deconstruct the concept of menopause and climacteric as a health problem, and address it as a vital and rebirth event, as an opening to a new way of living, with healthy lifestyles. Conclusions: It is concluded that the menopause is perceived and experienced as a stage of anxiety, restlessness, sadness and hopelessness, due to the lack of accompaniment, poor education and preparation of women; "menopausal" adult women are little recognized, rejected and, many times, only tolerated by close people. Health support networks are urgently needed.

Promovendo saúde por meio da música na maternidade: percepções de gestantes e puérperas / Promoting health through music in motherhood: perceptions of pregnant and puerperal women / Promoviendo la salud a través de la música en la maternidad: percepciones de las mujeres embarazadas y puérperas

Objetivo: compreender as percepções de gestantes e puérperas sobre o uso da música como tecnologia de cuidado para promoção da saúde. Método: estudo qualitativo, fundamentado nos pressupostos da promoção da saúde, realizado com sete gestantes e oito puérperas internadas na maternidade de um hospital público de Santa Catarina. Realizou-se entrevistas semiestruturadas, entre setembro de 2021 e fevereiro de 2022, após aprovação do Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa. Os dados foram analisados por meio da análise de conteúdo. Resultados: a música na maternidade diminui o estresse e a tristeza. Alem disso, proporciona distração, alegria, animação, resgate de lembranças, momento especial, gratidão e tranquilidade para as mulheres hospitalizadas e para os seus bebês. Considerações finais: para as gestantes e puérperas, a música tem a capacidade de promover a saúde, sendo uma tecnologia de cuidado que deveria estar presente em todas as maternidades do Brasil.

Objective: to understand the perceptions of pregnant and postpartum women about the use of music as a care technology for health promotion. Method: qualitative research, based on the assumptions of health promotion, carried out with seven pregnant women and eight postpartum women admitted to the maternity ward of a public hospital in Santa Catarina. Semi-structured interviews were carried out between September 2021 and February 2022, after approval by the Research Ethics Committee. Data were analyzed using content analysis. Results: music in the maternity ward reduces stress and sadness. In addition, it provides distraction, joy, animation, recall of memories, a special moment, gratitude and tranquility for hospitalized women and their babies. Final considerations: for pregnant and postpartum women, music has the ability to promote health, being a care technology that should be present in all maternity hospitals in Brazil.

Objetivo: comprender las percepciones de embarazadas y puérperas sobre el uso de la música como tecnología de cuidado para la promoción de la salud. Método: estudio cualitativo, basado en los supuestos de la promoción de la salud, realizado junto a siete mujeres embarazadas y ocho puérperas internadas en la maternidad de un hospital público de Santa Catarina. Las entrevistas semiestructuradas se realizaron entre septiembre de 2021 y febrero de 2022, previa aprobación del Comité de Ética en Investigación. Los datos se analizaron mediante análisis de contenido. Resultados: la música en la sala de maternidad reduce el estrés y la tristeza. Además, brinda distracción, alegría, animación, recuperación de recuerdos, momento especial, gratitud y tranquilidad para las mujeres hospitalizadas y sus bebés. Consideraciones finales: para las mujeres embarazadas y puérperas, la música tiene la capacidad de promover la salud, siendo una tecnología de atención que debe estar presente en todas las maternidades de Brasil.

Prácticas integradoras y complementarias, perfil y cuidados de enfermeras(os) a personas con hipertensión: estudio mixto / Integrative and complementary practices in health, nurses' profile and care provided to people with hypertension: a mixed study design / Práticas integrativas e complementares, perfil e cuidados de enfermeiras(os) às pessoas com hipertensão: estudo misto

Objetivo: analizar el perfil de enfermeras(os) acerca de las prácticas integradoras y complementarias en salud y comprender cómo son utilizadas en el cuidado a personas con hipertensión arterial. Método: explicativo, secuencial y mixto. La etapa cuantitativa transversal contó con 386 enfermeras(os), a través de cuestionario virtual, abordando el perfil sociodemográfico y profesional y la formación y actuación, con análisis descriptivo e inferencial. La etapa cualitativa se realizó mediante 18 entrevistas virtuales con profesionales que poseían formación en las prácticas y las utilizaban en el cuidado a personas con hipertensión, fundamentadas en el análisis participativo. La integración se realizó por conexión. Resultados: el 36,8% tuvo formación en las prácticas con predominio de mujeres, blancas, casadas, funcionarias públicas, con media de edad de 37 años (+ 9,4). El 14,2% utilizaba las prácticas en el cuidado en personas con hipertensión, predominando la auriculoterapia (28,2%) y la sangría en la crisis hipertensiva. Se evidenció el abordaje integral del paciente, no limitado a signos vitales alterados, con intervención en la ansiedad, estrés, sueño y reposo. Como potencialidad, tenemos el auxilio en la adhesión al tratamiento. Conclusión: se presentó el perfil de enfermeras(os) con formación en prácticas integradoras y complementarias. Se comprende que esas prácticas tienen implicación en la disminución de la presión arterial y que son utilizadas en el cuidado a personas con hipertensión, sin embargo de manera incipiente, considerando el potencial en el cuidado de enfermería.

Objective: to analyze the profile of nurses regarding integrative and complementary practices in health (ICPH) and understand how they are used in the care of people with arterial hypertension. Method: mixed-methods sequential explanatory design. The cross-sectional quantitative stage included 386 nurses who completed an online questionnaire addressing sociodemographic and professional information, training, and practice, with a descriptive and inferential analysis. The qualitative stage was performed via 18 online interviews with professionals who had ICPH training and implemented it in the care provided to individuals with hypertension, with a participatory analysis. Integration occurred through a connecting approach. Results: 36.8% had ICPH training; most were women, Caucasian, married, public servants, aged 37 (+ 9.4) on average; 14.2% incorporated ICPH into the care provided to people with hypertension; predominantly auriculotherapy (28.2%) and bloodletting in hypertensive crises. The results show that nurses integrally approached patients, and their approach was not limited to the vital sign altered at the time, but they also intervened in anxiety, stress, sleep, and rest. A potentiality observed concerns support treatment adherence. Conclusion: the profile of nurses with ICPH training is presented, and such practice has implications for lowering blood pressure. ICPH has been incorporated into the care of people with hypertension, but its use is still incipient, considering its potential in nursing care.

Objetivo: analisar o perfil de enfermeiras(os) acerca das práticas integrativas e complementares em saúde e compreender como são utilizadas no cuidado às pessoas com hipertensão arterial. Método: explanatório sequencial misto. A etapa quantitativa transversal contou com 386 enfermeiras(os), via questionário virtual, abordando perfil sociodemográfico e profissional, formação e atuação, com análise descritiva e inferencial. A etapa qualitativa ocorreu mediante 18 entrevistas virtuais com profissionais que possuem formação nas práticas e as utilizam no cuidado às pessoas com hipertensão, fundamentada na análise participativa. A integração se deu por conexão. Resultados: 36,8% tinham formação nas práticas, predominando mulheres, brancas, casadas, servidoras públicas, com média de idade de 37 anos (+ 9,4). 14,2% utilizam as práticas no cuidado às pessoas com hipertensão, predominando a auriculoterapia (28,2%) e a sangria na crise hipertensiva. Evidenciou-se a abordagem integral do paciente, não limitada ao sinal vital alterado, com intervenção na ansiedade, estresse, sono e repouso. Como potencialidade, tem-se o auxílio na adesão ao tratamento. Conclusão: apresentou-se o perfil de enfermeiras(os) com formação em práticas integrativas e complementares. Compreende-se que tais práticas têm implicação na diminuição da pressão arterial, e são utilizadas no cuidado às pessoas com hipertensão, porém de forma incipiente, considerando o potencial no cuidado de enfermagem.

Auriculoterapia para reducir el dolor crónico de la columna vertebral de los trabajadores de la salud: ensayo clínico / Auriculotherapy for reducing chronic spinal pain in health workers: a clinical trial / Auriculoterapia para redução da dor crônica na coluna vertebral em trabalhadores da saúde: ensaio clínico

Objetivo: evaluar la efectividad de la auriculoterapia para reducir el dolor musculoesquelético crónico de la columna vertebral de los trabajadores de la salud. Método: ensayo clínico aleatorizado, triple ciego, realizado con trabajadores de la salud diagnosticados con dolor crónico en la columna vertebral. Se aplicaron ocho sesiones de auriculoterapia con semillas, dos por semana. Los resultados fueron medidos con la Escala Numérica del Dolor, el Inventario Breve del Dolor, el Cuestionario de Discapacidad de Roland-Morris y los instrumentos SF-36, en la 1.ª, 4.ª, 8.ª sesión y follow-up a los 15 días. Análisis descriptivo e inferencial. Resultados: participaron 34 trabajadores del grupo intervención y 33 del grupo control, ambos mostraron una reducción en la intensidad del dolor (p>0,05). En el follow-up se registró una mayor reducción en el grupo intervención (3,32 ± 0,42) que en el grupo control (5,00 ± 0,43) (p=0,007). En cuanto a la calidad de vida, mejoró la vitalidad (p=0,012) y la limitación por aspectos emocionales (p=0,025). La relación entre auriculoterapia, discapacidad física e interferencia del dolor no difirió entre los grupos (p>0,05). El uso de medicamentos en el follow-up se mantuvo en el grupo control (77,8%) con respecto al grupo intervención (22,2%) (p=0,013). Conclusión: la auriculoterapia tuvo el mismo efecto en ambos grupos sobre la intensidad del dolor y duró más en el follow-up. Hubo una mejora en la calidad de vida y una reducción en el consumo de medicamentos. REBEC: RBR-3jvmdn.

Objective: to evaluate the effectiveness of auriculotherapy in reducing chronic musculoskeletal pain in the spine of health workers. Method: a randomized, triple-blind clinical trial conducted with health workers diagnosed with chronic spinal pain. Eight sessions of auriculotherapy with seeds were applied, two per week. The outcomes were measured with the Numerical Pain Scale, Brief Pain Inventory, Rolland-Morris Disability Questionnaire and SF-36 instruments, in the 1st, 4th and 8th session, and in the 15-day follow-up period. Descriptive and inferential analyses were performed. Results: 34 workers took part in the Intervention Group and 33 in the Control Group, and both presented reduced pain intensity (p>0.05). In the follow-up period, there was a greater reduction in the Intervention Group (3.32 ± 0.42), when compared to the Control Group (5.00 ± 0.43) (p=0.007). In quality of life, there was improved vitality (p=0.012) and limitation due to emotional aspects (p=0.025). The relationship between auriculotherapy, physical disability and pain interference did not differ between the groups (p>0.05). Medication use in the follow-up period remained unchanged in the Control Group (77.8%) when compared to the Intervention Group (22.2%) (p=0.013). Conclusion: auriculotherapy exerted the same effect between the groups on pain intensity, lasting longer in the follow-up period. There was an improvement in quality of life and a reduction in medication use. REBEC: RBR-3jvmdn.

Objetivo: avaliar a eficácia da auriculoterapia na redução da dor musculoesquelética crônica na coluna vertebral de trabalhadores da área da saúde. Método: ensaio clínico randomizado, triplo cego, realizado com trabalhadores da saúde com diagnóstico de dor crônica na coluna vertebral. Aplicaram-se oito sessões de auriculoterapia com sementes, duas por semana. Desfechos mensurados com os instrumentos Escala Numérica da Dor, Inventário Breve de Dor, Questionário de Incapacidade de Rolland-Morris e SF-36, na 1ª, 4ª, 8ª sessão, e follow-up de 15 dias. Análise descritiva e inferencial. Resultados: participaram 34 trabalhadores no grupo intervenção e 33 no controle, ambos apresentaram redução da intensidade da dor (p>0,05). No follow-up, maior redução no grupo intervenção (3,32 ± 0,42), comparado ao controle (5,00 ± 0,43) (p=0,007). Na qualidade de vida, melhorou a vitalidade (p=0,012) e limitação por aspectos emocionais (p=0,025). Relação entre auriculoterapia, incapacidade física e interferência da dor não diferiu entre os grupos (p>0,05). O uso de medicamentos, no follow-up, manteve-se no grupo controle (77,8%) se comparado à intervenção (22,2%) (p=0,013). Conclusão: a auriculoterapia apresentou igual efeito entre os grupos na intensidade da dor, com maior durabilidade deste no follow-up. Houve melhora da qualidade de vida e redução do consumo de medicamentos. REBEC: RBR-3jvmdn.

The prevalence and pattern of complementary and alternative medicine use among cancer patients in a tertiary oncology center: a cross-sectional study.

Background: Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is widely used nationally and internationally for multiple medical conditions, including different stages of cancer. It is used by the patients for multiple purposes, including to cure diseases or resolve symptoms, as patients have the misconception that natural remedies are safer than radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Objectives: The aim of this research is to investigate the prevalence, pattern, and purpose of CAM use by cancer patients at Princess Noorah Oncology Center (PNOC), King Abdulaziz Medical City, in Jeddah (KAMC-JD). Methods: This was a cross-sectional study that examined 293 patients (selected through random computerized sampling) who were seen at PNOC during the study period. To be eligible for the study, participants had to be cancer patients over the age of 18 who were seen at PNOC. The authors excluded patients who had privacy requests or did not fit our inclusion criteria. Results: Of the sample, 52.9% [95% confidence interval (CI), 47.0-58.7] used CAM. Only 5.8% of patients delayed their medical treatment to use CAM. A significantly higher proportion of females used CAM than males (61.8% vs. 40.0%, P<0.001). The most common types of CAM were Zamzam water (67.7%), Quran recitation (42.6%), water read upon Quran (41.3%), and black seed (Nigella sativa) (41.3%). The most frequently reported reasons for CAM use were to treat cancer (53.5%), increase immunity (34.2%), and religious beliefs (23.9%). Generally, 57.4% of CAM users felt improvement with CAM modalities. Conclusion: In conclusion, more than 50% of our sample used CAM; 5.8% of patients delayed the medical treatment to use CAM. The most common type of CAM was Zamzam water, and the most frequently reported reason for CAM use was to treat cancer. Of CAM users, 57.4% felt improvement with CAM modalities. Further studies that involve qualitative designs and include a more diverse sample are recommended in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to understand CAM utilization patterns.

Cornuside inhibits glucose-induced proliferation and inflammatory response of mesangial cells.

Cornuside is a secoiridoid glucoside compound extracted from the fruits of Cornus officinalis. Cornuside has immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties; however, its potential therapeutic effects on diabetic nephropathy (DN) have not been completely explored. In this study, we established an in vitro model of DN through treating mesangial cells (MMCs) with glucose. MMCs were then treated with different concentrations of cornuside (0, 5, 10, and 30 µM). Cell viability was determined using cell counting kit-8 and 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine assays. Levels of proinflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and IL-1ß were examined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Reverse transcription quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting were performed to detect the expression of AKT and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB)-associated genes. We found that cornuside treatment significantly reduced glucose-induced increase in MMC viability and expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, cornuside inhibited glucose-induced phosphorylation of AKT and NF-κB inhibitor alpha, decreased the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen and cyclin D1, and increased the expression of p21. Our study indicates that the anti-inflammatory properties of cornuside in DN are due to AKT and NF-κB inactivation in MMCs.

Knowledge and attitudes towards medicinal cannabis and complementary and integrative medicine (CIM): a survey of healthcare professionals working in a cancer hospital in Australia.

PURPOSE: We investigated attitudes and practices of healthcare professionals (HCPs) to medicinal cannabis (MC) and complementary and integrative medicine (CIM), including individual therapies, such as acupuncture, massage, herbs, dietary supplements, nutrition and exercise. We explored whether healthcare occupation influenced attitudes to CIM and MC; referral pathways for advice on CIM; and interest in a pharmacy service to evaluate herbs and supplements. METHODS: Cross-sectional survey. All clinical staff at a comprehensive cancer hospital were invited to complete an anonymous questionnaire about CIM and MC. We used descriptive analysis to describe the respondent's knowledge and attitudes, and Fisher's exact test to test for differences by occupation, length of time at the hospital and age. RESULTS: Most of the 116 HCPs respondents supported integrating CIM into cancer care (94.8%) and wanted to learn more (90%) and to understand benefits and contraindications. Most respondents believed that CIM (87.9%) could benefit patients with cancer, and MC could benefit those with advanced cancer (49-51%). Whilst just over half (52.6%) felt confident discussing CIM with patients, only 10% felt they had sufficient knowledge to discuss MC. Most felt they did not have sufficient knowledge to specifically discuss mind and body practices (63.8%) or herbs and supplements (79%). HCPs (63%) would be more inclined to allow use of herbs and supplements with cancer treatment if a pharmacy service was available to evaluate interactions. Occupation, length of time at hospital and age influenced confidence and knowledge about CIM. CONCLUSIONS: The integration of evidence-based CIM and MC into cancer care is hampered by a lack of knowledge of benefits and contraindications, and gaps in education. Effective and safe integration may require targeted development of services such as pharmacy to evaluate the safety of herbs and supplements, and inclusion of cancer specialists who have received training in individual CIM therapies and MC.

Current complementary and alternative therapy forgastroesophageal reflux disease.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a widely prevalent gastrointestinal disorder, affecting ∼13.3% of the global population. There are shortages and limitations of current GERD treatment modalities, and complementary and alternative therapy (CAT) is a promising option to fill in the gap. Dietary and lifestyle modifications might play an important and complementary role in alleviating GERD symptoms. Traditional Chinese medicine and brain-gut behavior therapy, particularly transcutaneous electrical acustimulation and diaphragmatic breathing therapy were shown to be useful adjuncts or alternatives in treating GERD. CAT may help to relieve GERD symptoms, minimize medication dosage, and slow the demand for surgery. The aim of this review was to summarize the existing evidence of some common CATs in treating symptomatic GERD, including dietary modification, lifestyle change, traditional Chinese medicine, and brain-gut behavior therapy.

Use of complementary and alternative medicine by cancer patients in Colombia.

BACKGROUND: The use of complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) among cancer patients varies greatly. The available data suggest an increasing use of CAM over time and a higher prevalence in low- and middle-income countries. However, no reliable data are available from Latin America. Accordingly, we examined the prevalence of CAM use among cancer patients from six Colombian regions. METHODS: We conducted a survey on cancer patients attending comprehensive cancer centres in six capital cities from different regions. The survey was designed based on a literature review and information gathered through focus groups on CAM terminology in Colombia. Independent random samples of patients from two comprehensive cancer centres in every city were obtained. Patients 18 years and older with a histopathological diagnosis of cancer undergoing active treatment were eligible. The prevalence of CAM use is reported as a percentage with the corresponding confidence interval. CAM types are reported by region. The sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of CAM users and non-users were compared using Chi square and t tests. RESULTS: In total, 3117 patients were recruited. The average age 59.6 years old, and 62.8% were female. The prevalence of CAM use was 51.7%, and compared to non-users, CAM users were younger, more frequently women, affiliated with the health insurance plan for low-income populations and non-Catholic. We found no differences regarding the clinical stage or treatment modality, but CAM users reported more treatment-related side effects. The most frequent types of CAM were herbal products, specific foods and vitamins, and individually, soursop was the most frequently used product. Relevant variability between regions was observed regarding the prevalence and type of CAM used (range: 36.6% to 66.7%). The most frequent reason for using CAM was symptom management (30.5%), followed by curative purposes (19.5%). CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of CAM use among cancer patients in Colombia is high in general, and variations between regions might be related to differences in cultural backgrounds and access to comprehensive cancer care. The most frequently used CAM products and practices have little scientific support, suggesting the need to enhance integrative oncology research in the country.

The Development, Validity, and Responsiveness of a Patient-Centred Outcome Measurement Tool for Evaluating Integrative Medicine Interventions.

Background: The paper sets out the development, validity, and responsiveness of the Integrative Medicine Treatment Evaluation Form (IMTEF), which has been designed to measure the effects of complementary and integrative therapy (CIT) interventions in cancer and palliative care (PC) patients in a National Health Service (NHS) hospital setting. Treatment evaluation is essential for ensuring safety and quality of services, for meeting NHS governance requirements. It also helps to add to the evidence base for complementary and integrative therapies through collecting data about treatments. Methods: A number of different Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) tools were reviewed in order to design the IMTEF, which details questions that captures both quantitative and qualitative data. The IMTEF was reviewed by patients and a range of health care practitioners. Results: IMTEF's validity is supported by feedback from health care practitioners and patients, by its ability to detect different degrees of change in relation to change scores, and by its correlations with Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores. Conclusion: The IMTEF can be used to assess the effects of therapeutic bodywork and CITs when many of the patients do not have the capacity or the time to answer many questions, and when therapists do not know in advance the number of treatments that patients will be able to receive. Because of the way it is structured, it can also assess the effects after a number of sessions.

Patient-doctor interactions around alternative and complementary medicine in the context of oncology care in a Latin American country.

OBJECTIVE: To characterize doctor-patient communication patterns around the use of complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) in the context of oncology care in Colombia. METHODS: A qualitative study was conducted using snowball sampling until data saturation was reached. We included oncology specialists and cancer patients who were in active treatment. Semi-structured interviews were conducted following a guide designed for each group of participants. An analysis based on open coding was performed to identify thematic areas. The coherence of emerging categories was verified by contrasting the data set within the content of the participants' reports and existing literature. RESULTS: In total, 10 oncologists and 16 cancer patients were included, representing diverse professional fields and cancer diagnoses, respectively. Communication patterns comprise themes regarding the beginning of the interaction (i.e., patient's anticipations), the patient-doctor relationship (i.e., confidence), the characteristics of the message (i.e., synthetic vs explanatory), the communication styles (i.e., confrontational vs conciliatory), and the closing of the interaction (i.e., continuity vs. end of communication). In addition, extrinsic factors influencing communication were found to be related to participants (i.e., knowledge, cultural background) and context (i.e., institutional procedures). CONCLUSIONS: The low frequency of communication contrasts to the increasing use of CAM. Divergent perspectives between doctors and patients could limit shared decision-making on the use of CAM. Enhanced knowledge and education on CAM for both actors is fundamental to improve their interaction and to move away from paternalistic and confrontational communication, particularly in a world region with cultural backgrounds that influence the use of CAM.