The efficacy of acupuncture for depression-associated chronic pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis - Takeaways - MDSpire

The efficacy of acupuncture for depression-associated chronic pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis

  • By

  • Hui Zhao

  • Yuan Gao

  • Kun Zhang

  • Cheng Tang

  • Weidong Shen

  • June 1, 2026

  • 0 min

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  • 1

    This systematic review evaluates acupuncture's efficacy and safety in treating depression-associated chronic pain (DACP).

  • 2

    Ten randomized controlled trials with 761 participants were included, showing acupuncture's effectiveness alongside conventional medications.

  • 3

    Acupuncture significantly improved depressive symptoms and reduced pain compared to medication alone, with SMDs of -0.72 and -0.85, respectively.

  • 4

    Acupuncture demonstrated a better safety profile than conventional medications, with a relative risk of 0.40.

  • 5

    A 4-week acupuncture treatment was found to be more effective for depressive symptoms, while longer treatments were better for pain relief.

Original Source(s)

The efficacy of acupuncture for depression-associated chronic pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis

  • by Hui Zhao, Yuan Gao, Kun Zhang, Cheng Tang, Weidong Shen

  • June 1, 2026

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