Acupuncture for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Idiopathic Chronic Fatigue: a Protocol for a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

(4) Korean Journal of Acupuncture, Vol. 28, No. 3, pp. 151∼163, 2011

Acupuncture for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Idiopathic Chronic Fatigue: a Protocol for a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Jung-Eun Kim, Kyung-Won Kang, Tae-Hun Kim, So-Yong Jung, Ae-Ran Kim, Mi-Suk Shin, Hyo-Ju Park, Kwon-Eui Hong, Sun-Mi Choi

Abstract

Objectives: Our aim is to evaluate the feasibility of massive clinical research and to make a basic analysis of the efficacy and the safety of acupuncture treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome and idiopathic chronic fatigue.

Methods: This study is a protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial. It was developed through literature searches and discussions among researchers.

Results: Forty participants each will be allocated to the acupuncture group and the wait-list group. Participants allocated to acupuncture group will be treated three times per week for a total of 12 sessions over four weeks. Eight points (GV20; bilatral GB20, BL11, BL13, BL15, BL18, BL20, BL23) have been selected for the acupuncture group. Participants in the wait-list group will not receive acupuncture treatment during the study period, and follow-up will be made in the 5th and 9th weeks after random allocation. Then, the same acupuncture treatment as that performed on the acupuncture group will be used for the wait-list group. The Fatigue Severity Scale, a short form of the Stress Response Inventory, the Beck Depression Inventory, and the Insomnia Severity Index will be used as outcome variables to evaluate the efficacy of acupuncture. Safety will be assessed at every visit.

Conclusions: The trial based on this study will be performed. The results of the trial will provide a basis for the efficacy and safety of acupuncture treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome and idiopathic chronic fatigue.

Key Words: acupuncture; chronic fatigue; pilot trial