Carl Clarkson
Northumbria University, UK
Title: Korean hand acupuncture for pregnancy related pelvic girdle pain: a feasibility study
Biography
Biography: Carl Clarkson
Abstract
Despite Pregnancy related Pelvic Girdle Pain (PPGP) developing in approximately 20% of pregnancies, there are currently very few studies that have investigated interventional strategies. Of extant interventions investigated to date, acupuncture has shown some promising findings, although the effects of Korean Hand Acupuncture (KHA) on PPGP remain unclear. In line with the MRC framework for complex interventions, any potential treatment should be subjected to feasibility testing prior to a definitive RCT. A mixed methods feasibility study, assessing the acceptability and practicality of conducting a definitive RCT on KHA for PPGP, was conducted. It was a study consisting of six sessions, with individuals randomized to either a standard physiotherapy plus penetrating Korean Hand Acupuncture (pKHA) or a standard physiotherapy plus non-penetrating Korean Hand Acupuncture (npKHA) group. 59 women were recruited, 40 of whom completed all six sessions. Trends in pain, function believability and credibility were measured, as well as qualitative data analysed via content analysis to assess acceptability and practicality.