Improving chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy in cancer patients using a combined qigong and self-administered acupressure intervention: a randomized controlled trial

ESMO open, 10(9), 105565. 2025
Cheung, D. S. T.*, Yeung, W. F., Chau, P. H., Chan, S. Y., Chan, W. L., Yeh, C. H., Lao, L., Zhang, Z., & Lin, C. C.

Abstract

Background: Acupressure and qigong are Chinese medicine-based modalities that can work in synergy to improve chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). This study examines the effect of a combined qigong and acupressure intervention on CIPN among cancer patients.

Patients and methods: This randomized controlled trial included cancer patients experiencing CIPN. Participants were randomly allocated to intervention and waitlist control groups (1 : 1). The intervention group received a 16-week combined qigong and self-administered acupressure intervention. The primary outcome was self-reported CIPN severity (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy/Gynecologic Oncology Group-Neurotoxicity). Other outcomes included objectively measured CIPN severity (DPNCheck), handgrip strength (dynamometer), physical performance (Short Physical Performance Battery), fall incidence, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General). Data were collected at baseline, 16 weeks, and 28 weeks. Intention-to-treat analysis was carried out.

Results: The study randomly assigned 110 patients [mean (standard deviation) age 61.86 years (9.31 years); 49 (89.1%) female], among whom 103 completed the study. After intervention, the reduction in self-reported CIPN severity in the intervention group was significantly larger than in the control group (mean difference = -3.86, 95% confidence interval CI -6.14 to -1.58), P = 0.001). The intervention showed significant benefit in reducing self-reported CIPN severity (group × time P = 0.004), physical performance (group × time P = 0.025), and HRQoL (group × time P < 0.001). The effect on objectively measured CIPN severity, handgrip strength, and fall incidence did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusions: A combined qigong and acupressure intervention versus waitlist control significantly improved self-reported CIPN among cancer patients. Incorporating the combined intervention into standard practice is recommended.

Keywords: acupressure; cancer; chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy; qigong; randomized controlled trial.

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(*Corresponding Author)