Chuna manual therapy combined with acupuncture and cupping for frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis): Multicenter, randomized, patient-assessor blind, clinical trial

Abstract Introduction Frozen shoulder is a common disease that causes pain and limited range of motion. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness, safety, and cost effectiveness of Chuna combined with integrative treatments on frozen shoulder. Method A multicenter, randomized, patient-assessor blind, parallel clinical trial was carried out. Eligible subjects were allocated to one of two groups with randomization. The experimental group received acupuncture, cupping and real Chuna manual therapy, and control group received acupuncture, cupping and sham Chuna manual therapy. During the 8-weeks period, the effectiveness and safety evaluations were carried out. And evaluation of satisfaction and cost effectiveness was performed at the end of the trial (20-week). The primary outcome was shoulder pain and disability index (SPADI). The secondary outcomes were 100 mm pain visual analog scale, passive range of motion of shoulder, Korean shoulder scoring system score, quality of life score, use of relief medicine, evaluation of patient satisfaction, safety, and cost effectiveness. Result A total of 66 subjects were enrolled. There were no adverse events reported as a result of any of the treatments administered. The difference of SPADI score between two groups was not statistically significant. The score of EuroQol-5 Dimension (VAS) was significantly improved in experimental group at the end of treatment and follow up period (p = 0.015, p = 0.009). As long as SPADI and rotator cuff quality of life are indicators, the experimental treatment may be cost-effective depending on the willingness to pay. Conclusion Further evidences about the effectiveness of the Chuna combined acupuncture and cupping therapy, and more verification data on the economic assessment are required.