Shuci method of electroacupuncture improves self-perception and quality of life in patients with knee osteoarthritis: a multicenter randomized controlled trial - Report - MDSpire
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Electroacupuncture Using the Shuci Technique Enhances Self-Assessment and Life Quality in Individuals with Knee Osteoarthritis: Results from a Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial

  • By

  • Yiming Chen

  • Hongyu Xie

  • Min Ye

  • Jin Wang

  • Danni Zhang

  • Aihong Yuan

  • August 26, 2026

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Clinical Report: Electroacupuncture Using the Shuci Technique Enhances Self-Assessment

Overview

This multicenter randomized controlled trial demonstrated that electroacupuncture (EA) using the Shuci technique improved self-assessment and quality of life in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). The study found a difference in response rates and various pain and quality of life metrics between EA and sham electroacupuncture (SEA).

Background

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a common chronic condition that leads to significant disability and impacts quality of life. Current treatment options are limited, often providing only temporary relief and associated with adverse effects. The Shuci method of electroacupuncture represents a traditional approach for managing KOA symptoms.

Data Highlights

OutcomeEA (n=55)SEA (n=55)Difference (95% CI)p-value
Response Rate76.4%27.3%49.1% (32.8–65.4)<0.001
VAS Improvement-2.1N/A-2.1 (-2.6 to -1.6)<0.001
PPT Improvement20.1N/A20.1 (14.9 to 25.3)<0.001
KOOS-Pain Improvement23.3N/A23.3 (18.3 to 28.3)<0.001
KOOS-Symptoms Improvement16.8N/A16.8 (10.8 to 22.8)<0.001
KOOS-ADL Improvement7.2N/A7.2 (0.1 to 14.3)0.046
KOOS-QoL Improvement7.6N/A7.6 (3.0 to 12.2)0.001

Key Findings

  • Electroacupuncture (EA) showed a response rate of 76.4% compared to 27.3% for sham electroacupuncture (SEA).
  • Significant improvements in Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores were observed with EA.
  • Pressure pain threshold (PPT) increased significantly with EA treatment.
  • KOOS-pain scores improved by 23.3 points with EA, indicating enhanced pain management.
  • KOOS-Symptoms and KOOS-Activities of Daily Living scores also showed significant improvement with EA.
  • Quality of life as measured by KOOS-QoL improved significantly in the EA group.

Clinical Implications

The findings suggest that the Shuci method of electroacupuncture may serve as an effective adjunctive treatment for patients with knee osteoarthritis, potentially improving pain management and quality of life. Clinicians may consider incorporating this technique into treatment plans for KOA.

Conclusion

The study provides evidence regarding the Shuci method of electroacupuncture in enhancing self-assessment and quality of life in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Frontiers | Shuci Method of Electroacupuncture Improves Self-perception and Quality of Life in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial
  2. Clinical Rheumatology — Electroacupuncture Combined with Extensor Exercises Enhances Quadriceps Elastic Contraction Density in Knee Osteoarthritis Over Short and Long Durations
  3. MDSpire News — Acupuncture vs Sham for Chronic Sciatica: Long-Term Study Findings
  4. Frontiers in Psychiatry — Electroacupuncture for treating the cognitive symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease: a randomized controlled trial
  5. Frontiers in Medicine — Efficacy of electroacupuncture in the treatment of Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary disease: study protocol for a multicenter, randomized, sham-controlled trial
  6. VA/DOD CLINICAL PRACTICE GUIDELINE FOR THE NON-SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF HIP & KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS
  7. Evidence-to-Recommendation Framework for 2026 ACE Clinical Guideline on the management of knee osteoarthritis
  8. Electroacupuncture for knee osteoarthritis: a multicentre randomised controlled trial assessing symptomatic and structural efficacy
  9. Electroacupuncture for knee osteoarthritis: a multicentre randomised controlled trial assessing symptomatic and structural efficacy - PubMed
  10. Frontiers | Shuci Method of Electroacupuncture Improves Self-perception and Quality of Life in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial
  11. Frontiers | Electroacupuncture superiority in knee osteoarthritis: a meta-analysis of four acupuncture techniques
  12. Efficacy and Safety of External Therapies of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
  13. April 2026 Agency for Care Effectiveness (ACE),

Original Source(s)

Shuci method of electroacupuncture improves self-perception and quality of life in patients with knee osteoarthritis: a multicenter randomized controlled trial

  • by Yiming Chen, Hongyu Xie, Min Ye, Jin Wang, Danni Zhang, Aihong Yuan

  • August 26, 2026

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