Acupuncture Experience in Patients with Chronic Low Back Pain(2): A Qualitative Study - Focused on Participants in Randomized Controlled Trial

Objectives : To explore the experiences of patients with chronic low back pain(CLBP) in a randomized controlled trial(RCT) of acupuncture. Methods : Five qualitative focus group interviews were conducted at three Korean Medicine Hospitals. Two to 4 participants from the same group(real or sham acupuncture) in the RCT of acupuncture for CLBP discussed their experiences and perceptions of the clinical trial and the acupuncture treatment. Transcribed data were read independently by researchers and analyzed to categorize information and identify themes. Results : A total of 14 participants were included. Most of them discovered positive aspects of being a study subject and a patient. They recognized the differences between experimental and real-world clinical settings such as formal procedures of treatment, and different acupuncture device. Participants also expressed the weaker sensation of acupuncture compared to the previous experience. Especially, they were well aware of the 'subjects' role themselves, thus they observed their changes of symptom closely. As subjects were generally satisfied with their treatment and they had a good feeling to acupuncture after the trial, they expressed their willingness to participate in the future clinical trial of acupuncture. Conclusions : Our finding suggests that the Korean patients' experience of participating in an RCT was generally positive. Their tendency to perform the 'subject' role might affect the trial's process or overall results.