The promising application of acupressure for management of cancer-related lymphedema: A scoping review.

OBJECTIVE

Acupressure is widely used to effectively manage cancer-related symptoms; however, limited evidence has been seen on the application of acupressure in managing cancer-related lymphedema (CRL). This study aims to identify, describe, and map the current evidence that used acupressure for CRL prevention and management.

METHODS

This review was conducted following Arksey and O'Malley's methodology and Joanna Briggs Institute guidance for scoping reviews. A systematic search was performed in eight English databases and four Chinese databases from inception to Oct 20, 2023, and updated on July 20, 2024. Reference lists were hand-searched. Two independent reviewers performed study selection and data extraction. Disagreements were solved through discussion or consultation with a third reviewer. A narrative synthesis was performed to summarize and synthesize the findings.

RESULTS

A total of 16 articles published from 2010 to 2023 were included. The majority of the studies ( ​= ​11) were from China. There were six randomized controlled trials (RCTs), four quasi-experimental studies, one retrospective cohort study, one qualitative study, three reviews, and one report. Nine studies examined acupressure, one employed tuina, and one utilized Transcutaneous Electrical Acupoint Stimulation. Neiguan (PC 6), Hegu (LI 4), Jianjing (GB 21), Quchi (LI 11), Chize (LU 5) were most commonly used acupoints. The dosage varied among studies. Acupressure was performed by trained nurses or patients. Acupressure showed improvements in lymphedema management, limb function, quality of life, and inflammatory factors.

CONCLUSIONS

The review concluded the effectiveness of acupressure in CRL prevention and treatment. Further rigorous research is recommended, particularly well-designed RCTs involving diverse populations.