Randomized clinical trial of self-acupressure for aromatase-inhibitor associated musculoskeletal symptoms

Randomized clinical trial of self-acupressure for aromatase-inhibitor associated musculoskeletal symptoms. Download PDF Abstract Half of aromatase inhibitor (AI)-treated patients with early stage breast cancer discontinue therapy early, primarily because of AI-associated musculoskeletal symptoms (AIMSS). Acupuncture reduces AIMSS, but uptake is limited.

Prior studies demonstrated reduction in pain with self-acupressure. We examined the effectiveness of 12 weeks of true (TA) versus sham (SA) acupressure for treating AIMSS. Patients with ≥4/10 new or worsening worst pain since starting AI therapy and no recent acupuncture were eligible.

Median age was 51.6 years and 83% were white. Symptoms were assessed weekly using the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI). Primary endpoint was change in BPI worst pain by 12 weeks, analyzed using a linear mixed model.

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