Is Tui Na a Promising Approach for Autoimmune Diseases? A Review of Clinical Studies and Mechanisms
Keywords:
Tui Na, Traditional Chinese Massage, Autoimmune Diseases, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Multiple Sclerosis, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Ankylosing SpondylitisAbstract
Autoimmune diseases, characterized by immune system dysfunction targeting healthy tissues, affect millions worldwide. While conventional treatments have advanced, unmet needs persist. Tui Na, a traditional Chinese massage therapy, has gained attention as a potential complementary treatment. This review explores Tui Na’s role in managing autoimmune conditions. A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify studies investigating the use of Tui Na for autoimmune diseases in several databases. The available evidence suggests that Tui Na may offer potential benefits for individuals with autoimmune diseases. Studies have reported improvements in pain, fatigue, and overall well-being. Combining Tui Na with conventional treatments has often yielded enhanced outcomes. However, the evidence base is limited by a paucity of high-quality rando-mized controlled trials. Tui Na’s potential as a complementary therapy for autoimmune diseases is promising. Its ease of application and reported benefits warrant further exploration. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear, and the evidence base is insufficient to establish definitive recommendations. Future research should focus on rigorous study designs, larger sample sizes, and mechanistic investigations. Integrating Tui Na into comprehensive care plans requires careful consideration of patient-specific needs and potential interactions with conventional treatments. In conclusion, Tui Na shows promise as a complementary therapy for autoimmune diseases, offering potential benefits in symptom management and quality of life. While preliminary findings are encouraging, robust research is needed to establish its efficacy and safety
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