Commonality Analysis of High-Quality Acupuncture Clinical Trial Articles.

Background: With a wide range of clinical needs, evidence-based support for acupuncture therapy through clinical trials is essential for enhancing its scientific value, clinical application, and international influence.

Objective: The aim of this study was to provide design ideas and specific methodology references for acupuncturists and researchers for the design, implementation, and publication of high-level acupuncture clinical research.

Data sources: The data came from PubMed, Web of Science, and EBSCO databases since its inception until February 28, 2024. A total of 89 articles were retrieved, and the primary interventions were manual acupuncture, electroacupuncture, auricular acupuncture, and laser acupuncture. Eighty-five clinical trials on manual acupuncture and electroacupuncture as primary interventions were included.

Results: All of the high-quality clinical trial publications on acupuncture included in the review adhered to the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) statement and the Standards for Reporting Interventions in Clinical Trials of Acupuncture (STRICTA). They demonstrated rigor and accuracy in trial design selection, inclusion criteria development, sample size calculations, and statistical methodology, and provided clear, concise details of acupuncture interventions and control settings.

Conclusion: These trials have elevated the overall quality of the research and provided invaluable insights and methodological frameworks for designing randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in acupuncture. Despite these advancements, several limitations remain that warrant attention in future endeavors. Addressing these shortcomings is crucial for enhancing the methodological rigor and reliability of acupuncture trials and advancing evidence-based practice in this field.