Perspectives on Integrative Medicine

From articles published in Perspectives on Integrative Medicine during the past two years (2023 ~ ).

Review Articles

Clinical Research on Pharmacopuncture in Korea: A Scoping Review: Me-riong Kim, Seong Min Lee, Yoon Jae Lee, In-Hyuk Ha; Perspect Integr Med. 2023;2(1):8-23. Published online February 21, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2023.02.003

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This scoping review was performed as an update on the effects and safety of pharmacopuncture clinical research for the treatment of multiple indications in Korea. Nine electronic databases were searched to identify comparative clinical studies and clinical practice guidelines on Korean pharmacopuncture from inception to December 31, 2022. In vivo and in vitro studies, and case reports were excluded. There were 226 studies identified, including randomized controlled trials, retrospective comparison observational studies, and single-subject crossover designs, of which 17 focused on clinical safety profiles. Most studies pertained to rehabilitation medicine, especially for musculoskeletal (n = 129) and nervous system disorders (n = 35). The evidence supported treatment of neoplasms, obesity, and stroke sequelae. Adverse events of pharmacopuncture were mostly mild and temporary, and occurred more frequently with bee venom compared with herb-derived solutions. Thirty-five clinical practice guidelines including recommendations on pharmacopuncture were included. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first scoping review of clinical pharmacopuncture use in Korea, and our findings support its use in clinical practice and research. Considering the diverse clinical applications of pharmacopuncture, additional pragmatic trials are required to further strengthen the evidence base and develop standard research methodology in Korean medicine.

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Cost‐Effectiveness of Hominis Placenta Therapy for Chronic Temporomandibular Disorder: An Economic Evaluation Alongside a Pragmatic Randomised Controlled Trial
Doori Kim, Eun‐San Kim, Koh‐Woon Kim, Jae‐Heung Cho, Yoon Jae Lee, In‐Hyuk Ha
Journal of Oral Rehabilitation.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Efficacy of ultrasound-guided pharmacopuncture: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Jinho Lee, Sook-Hyun Lee, Yoon Jae Lee, Ju Yeon Kim, In Heo, Jae-Heung Cho, Byung-Kwan Seo, Dong Kun Ko, In-Hyuk Ha
Medicine.2025; 104(11): e41733. CrossRef
The effect of integrative Korean medicine treatment on symptomatic lumbar facet joint cysts: A case series
Hee-seung Choi, Yoon Jae Lee, Dae-Hyun Hahm, Hyangsook Lee, In-Hyuk Ha
EXPLORE.2024; 20(1): 130. CrossRef
Long-Term Follow-Up of Inpatients with Rotator Cuff Tear Who Received Integrative Korean Medicine Treatment: A Retrospective Analysis and Questionnaire Survey
Dong-Hwi Yoo, Jae-Yong Choi, Sang-Gun Lee, Ki-Won Choi, Han-Bin Park, Ho Kim, Hyunwoo Cho, Sang Don Kim, Doori Kim, Yoon Jae Lee, Kyoung Sun Park, In-Hyuk Ha
EXPLORE.2024; 20(2): 212. CrossRef
Long-term follow-up of inpatients with meniscus tears who received integrative Korean medicine treatment: A retrospective analysis and follow-up survey
June Haeng Lee, Jin Young Song, Kyoung Sun Park, Jinho Lee, In-Hyuk Ha, Yoon Jae Lee
Medicine.2024; 103(6): e36917. CrossRef
Pharmacopuncture therapy for adhesive capsulitis: A pragmatic randomized controlled pilot study
Doori Kim, Kyoung Sun Park, Sun-A Kim, Ji Yeon Seo, Hyun-Woo Cho, Yoon Jae Lee, Changsop Yang, In-Hyuk Ha, Chang-Hyun Han
Integrative Medicine Research.2024; 13(3): 101065. CrossRef
Effectiveness of lumbar motion style acupuncture treatment on inpatients with acute low back pain: A pragmatic, randomized controlled trial
Oh-Bin Kwon, Dong Wook Hwang, Dong-Hyeob Kang, Sang-Joon Yoo, Do-Hoon Lee, Minjin Kwon, Seon-Woo Jang, Hyun-Woo Cho, Sang Don Kim, Kyong Sun Park, Eun-San Kim, Yoon Jae Lee, Doori Kim, In-Hyuk Ha
Complementary Therapies in Medicine.2024; 82: 103035. CrossRef
Survey on the current usage of ultrasound-guided procedures in Korean Medicine Clinics and Hospitals
Ju Yeon Kim, Jung Min Yun, Sook-Hyun Lee, Yoon Jae Lee, Dong Kun Ko, In Heo, Woo-Chul Shin, Jae-Heung Cho, Byung-Kwan Seo, In-Hyuk Ha
Medicine.2024; 103(14): e37659. CrossRef
Effectiveness and safety of hominis placental pharmacopuncture for chronic temporomandibular disorder: A multi-center randomized controlled trial
Kyoung Sun Park, Eun-San Kim, Koh-Woon Kim, Jae-Heung Cho, Yoon Jae Lee, Jinho Lee, In-Hyuk Ha
Integrative Medicine Research.2024; 13(2): 101044. CrossRef
Analysis of Research Trends on the Korean Medicine Treatments of Subacromial-Subdeltoid Bursitis
Hyunsuk Park, Dong-Jin Jang, Jonghyun Lee, Sungjae Yoo, Minji Sun, Junsoo Kim, Yongjun Kim, Jeong-Hee Noh, Si-Hyoung Kim, Jung-Min Yun
Journal of Korean Medicine Rehabilitation.2024; 34(2): 85. CrossRef
Effectiveness and Safety of Pharmacopuncture on Inpatients with Tension Headache Caused by Traffic Accidents: A Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial
Ja-Yean Son, Kangmoo Goo, Na-young Kim, Seok-Gyu Yang, Dong Hwan Lee, Yu-Ra Im, Oh Bin Kwon, Hyun-Woo Cho, Sang Don Kim, Doori Kim, In-Hyuk Ha
Journal of Clinical Medicine.2024; 13(15): 4457. CrossRef
Integrative Korean medicine treatment for inpatients with osteoarthritis of the knee: An observational study
Soo Kyeong Lee, Eun Je Oh, Gun Hee Bae, Jae Hyuk Woo, Yoon Jae Lee, In-Hyuk Ha, Ju Yeon Kim, Doori Kim
Medicine.2024; 103(32): e39183. CrossRef
Integrative Medicine Focusing on Ultrasound-Guided High-Dose Shinbaro 2 Pharmacopuncture for Acute Herniated Intervertebral Discs: A Case Report
Nam-Woo Lee, Jinho Lee, Jung-Min Yun, Siwon Kim, Won-Seok Chung
Healthcare.2024; 12(16): 1620. CrossRef
Common Peroneal Nerve Entrapment Masked by Acute Lumbar Disc Herniation: Integrated Korean Medicine Treatment with Ultrasound-Guided Pharmacopuncture
Hyunsuk Park, Jinhyun Kim, Sungjae Yoo, Jung-Min Yun, Kwangchan Song
Perspectives on Integrative Medicine.2024; 3(3): 177. CrossRef
A Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial on the Effectiveness and Safety of Pharmacopuncture for Chronic Lower Back Pain
Kyoung Sun Park, Changnyun Kim, Joo Won Kim, Sang‐Don Kim, Jee Young Lee, Yoon Jae Lee, Jinho Lee, Min Ji Kim, Young Eun Choi, Changsop Yang, Chang-Hyun Han, In-Hyuk Ha
Journal of Pain Research.2023; Volume 16: 2697. CrossRef
Domestic Clinical Research Trends of Shinbaro Pharmacopuncture: Scoping Review
Yeongmin Kim, Yunhee Han, Seungkwan Choi, Jungho Jo, Byeonghyeon Jeon, Hyeonjun Woo, Wonbae Ha, Junghan Lee
Journal of Korean Medicine Rehabilitation.2023; 33(4): 125. CrossRef

Addressing the Challenges of Traditional, Complementary, and Integrative Medicine Research: An International Perspective and Proposed Strategies Moving Forward: Maheen Raja, Holger Cramer, Myeong Soo Lee, L. Susan Wieland, Jeremy Y. Ng; Perspect Integr Med. 2024;3(2):86-97. Published online June 21, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2024.06.004

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Traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine (TCIM) encompasses a broad range of healthcare practices beyond conventional Western medicine. Despite its use globally and increased research, many TCIM research challenges persist impeding its progress and integration into clinical practice. Key challenges involve financial constraints, insufficient research training and educational support, and the methodological barriers which arise from a lack of standardization. Financial limitations hinder investment into crucial research limiting both the quantity and quality of TCIM research. Inadequate training in research and educational support limit the development of TCIM research, hindering growth and recognition of TCIM in academic and clinical settings. The inherent dynamic nature of TCIM therapies poses additional challenges for applying standardized biomedical research models. These challenges not only impede the advancement of TCIM research but also perpetuate negative attitudes and biases within the healthcare and research communities. To overcome these challenges, a comprehensive strategy is necessary to increase funding, improve literacy, and the promotion of open science practices in TCIM. Addressing these confounding factors will enable well-informed TCIM research literacy and the development of TCIM skills and facilitate the integration of evidence based TCIM therapies into a more inclusive healthcare domain, ultimately reducing negative attitudes and biases towards TCIM.

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“There is a way to work together”: A qualitative study on complementary medicine therapists' perceptions of their role in the Swiss healthcare system
Julie Dubois, Pierre-Yves Rodondi, Christina Akre
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice.2025; 58: 101919. CrossRef
The case for data sharing in traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine research
Jeremy Y. Ng
Integrative Medicine Research.2025; 14(1): 101101. CrossRef
Harnessing plant metabolic pathways for innovative diabetes management: unlocking the therapeutic potential of medicinal plants
Ugwu Okechukwu Paul-Chima, Anyanwu Chinyere Nkemjika, Ugwu Melvin Nnaemeka, Hope Onohuean
Plant Signaling & Behavior.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
A Protocol for a Bibliometric Analysis of Traditional, Complementary, and Integrative Medicine Research Preprints
Jeremy Y. Ng, Brenda Lin, Sabrina Abdella, Magdalene Abebe, Isabella Tao, Holger Cramer
Perspectives on Integrative Medicine.2024; 3(3): 172. CrossRef
Robust Evidence in Integrative Medicine: Innovations, Challenges, and Future Directions
Ye-Seul Lee, Myeong Soo Lee, David Moher, In-Hyuk Ha, Jian-Ping Liu, Terje Alræk, Stephen Birch, Tae-Hun Kim, Yoon Jae Lee, Juan V.A. Franco, Jeremy Y. Ng, Holger Cramer
Perspectives on Integrative Medicine.2024; 3(3): 162. CrossRef
PRIO – a prospective integrative oncology registry: trial protocol
Paul G. Werthmann, Ann-Kathrin Lederer, Hannah Maja Figura, Klaus Kramer
Frontiers in Oncology.2024;[Epub] CrossRef

An Umbrella Review of Systematic Reviews for Chuna (or Tuina) Manual Therapy on Musculoskeletal Disorders: Doori Kim, Gil Geun Baek, Byung-Cheul Shin; Perspect Integr Med. 2023;2(3):142-154. Published online October 23, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2023.10.002

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Background
To provide clinicians with reliable evidence an umbrella review of systematic reviews (SRs) on Chuna manual therapy (CMT) for musculoskeletal disorders was performed to synthesize important outcomes.
Methods
There were eight databases (Cochrane, EMBASE, MEDLINE, CNKI, KMBASE, KISS, Scienceon, and OASIS) searched as well as the international database Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews in health and social care until August 2023. SRs of randomized controlled trials involving patients with musculoskeletal conditions, limited to interventions explicitly labeled as “Chuna” or “Tuina” in English, Chinese, or Korean language were retrieved. Two reviewers independently conducted selection and data extraction, and SR quality was assessed using A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews tool (low, medium, or high quality).
Results
This review included 32 SRs, categorized by cervical (n = 4), thoracolumbar (n = 7), upper extremity (n = 5), lower extremity (n = 9), and other musculoskeletal disorders (n = 7). Quality assessments determined that three SRs were of “high” quality, two were “low” quality, and the remaining SRs were of “medium” quality. CMT was consistently reported to demonstrate superior outcomes: an effective rate was observed in 17 of 19 SRs, CMT was effective at reducing pain in 12 of the 16 SRs, and functional outcomes of CMT were observed in 8 of 12 SRs. No serious adverse events were reported.
Conclusion
CMT may be a safe and effective treatment for various musculoskeletal disorders based on the limited number of studies and the low quality of included SRs.

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Integrative Korean medicine for recurrent lumbar disc herniation after coronavirus disease vaccination: A case report and literature review
Ah-Ra Koh, Hyun-Woo Kim, Young-Jin Lee, Hye-Jeong Jo, Go-Eun Chae, Dong-Woo Kim, In-Hyuk Ha, Doori Kim
Medicine.2025; 104(1): e41079. CrossRef
Comparative Effectiveness of Non-Pharmacological and Pharmacological Treatments for Non-Acute Lumbar Disc Herniation: A Multicenter, Pragmatic, Randomized Controlled, Parallel-Grouped Pilot Study
Doori Kim, Jee Young Lee, Yoon Jae Lee, Chang Sop Yang, Chang-Hyun Han, In-Hyuk Ha
Journal of Clinical Medicine.2025; 14(4): 1204. CrossRef
Integrative Korean medicine treatment without surgery for the management of subacute radiating pain attributed to vertebral artery loop formation: A case report and literature review
Jung Min Yun, Dong Hyun Go, Sook-Hyun Lee
Medicine.2025; 104(9): e39483. CrossRef
Reporting Overviews of Reviews: PRIORitizing a Reporting Guideline
Lisa Hartling, David Moher
Perspectives on Integrative Medicine.2024; 3(2): 65. CrossRef
Effectiveness and Safety of Pharmacopuncture on Inpatients with Tension Headache Caused by Traffic Accidents: A Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial
Ja-Yean Son, Kangmoo Goo, Na-young Kim, Seok-Gyu Yang, Dong Hwan Lee, Yu-Ra Im, Oh Bin Kwon, Hyun-Woo Cho, Sang Don Kim, Doori Kim, In-Hyuk Ha
Journal of Clinical Medicine.2024; 13(15): 4457. CrossRef

Editorial

Korean Medicine Innovative Technologies Development Project: Integrative Advances and Comprehensive Overview of the National R&D Initiative: Yoon Jae Lee, Seungwon Shin, Junhyeok Yi, Minjung Park; Perspect Integr Med. 2024;3(2):69-73. Published online June 21, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2024.06.002

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Bee Venom Acupuncture in Traditional Korean Medicine: A Review of Clinical Practice Guidelines
Minjung Park, Seungwon Shin
Toxins.2025; 17(4): 158. CrossRef
Integrative personalized medicine care for adjustment disorder of a post-COVID-19 patient: A CARE-compliant case report
Won-Kyoung Moon, Ja-Yeon Jeong, Sang-Woo Park, Su-Yeon Yun, Euiju Lee, Seungwon Shin
Medicine.2024; 103(31): e39121. CrossRef
Robust Evidence in Integrative Medicine: Innovations, Challenges, and Future Directions
Ye-Seul Lee, Myeong Soo Lee, David Moher, In-Hyuk Ha, Jian-Ping Liu, Terje Alræk, Stephen Birch, Tae-Hun Kim, Yoon Jae Lee, Juan V.A. Franco, Jeremy Y. Ng, Holger Cramer
Perspectives on Integrative Medicine.2024; 3(3): 162. CrossRef
Bee Venom Acupuncture for Shoulder Pain: A Literature Review of Clinical Studies
Hyein Jeong, Soobin Jang, Jang-Kyung Park, Kyeong Han Kim, Jong Hyun Park, Gihyun Lee, Soo-Hyun Sung
Toxins.2024; 16(11): 501. CrossRef

Review Articles

Trends in the Development of Sham Acupuncture-Related Technologies Focused on Patents Applied for in South Korea: Sung Min Lim; Perspect Integr Med. 2023;2(1):36-41. Published online February 21, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2023.02.005

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Background
This study aimed to analyze the trends in Korean patents for sham acupuncture.
Methods
The electronic database of the Korea Intellectual Property Rights Information Service was searched for Korean patents for sham acupuncture from inception till September 2020. Patents, which were not related to sham acupuncture, were excluded. The applicant, application date, International Patent Classification, and technological content of sham acupuncture were analyzed.
Results
This study included eight patents. Application analysis identified the following sham acupuncture types: four (50%), two (25%), and two (25%) patents were for non-penetrating sham acupuncture, electronic sham acupuncture, and patch sham acupuncture, respectively. All patents aimed to use sham acupuncture as a control for rigorous double-blind clinical trials to verify the efficacy of real acupuncture treatment.
Conclusion
The present findings suggest that technological advances were focused on developing various types of sham acupuncture methods for double-blind studies. Further large-scale studies using rigorous designs are needed to investigate new sham acupuncture applications.

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Validation of a New Sham Acupuncture Needle for Double-Blind Trials: A Study Protocol
Sung Min Lim
Perspectives on Integrative Medicine.2024; 3(1): 57. CrossRef
A systematic review of sham acupuncture validation studies
Sung Min Lim, Eunji Go
BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Trends in the Development of Acupuncture-Related Technologies Based on Patents in South Korea
Sung Min Lim, Eunji Go, Carmen Mannucci
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medic.2024; 2024: 1. CrossRef
Systematic Review Protocol for Sham Acupuncture Validation Research
Sung Min Lim
Perspectives on Integrative Medicine.2023; 2(2): 131. CrossRef

A Scoping Review of Clinical Research on Motion Style Acupuncture Treatment: Doori Kim, Yoon Jae Lee, In-Hyuk Ha; Perspect Integr Med. 2023;2(2):65-76. Published online June 23, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2023.06.001

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This scoping review was conducted to examine the concept of Motion style acupuncture treatment (MSAT), use in clinical practice, its effectiveness, and safety. A literature review of clinical study treatment methods combining acupuncture and movement therapy was performed using PubMed. Of 2,096 studies retrieved, 22 were included in this review. There were 12 randomized controlled trials, and all 22 studies were published in China and Korea, mostly, within the last 3 years. There were five studies concerning local acupoints and 17 studies regarding needling at distal acupoints, and the level of risk of the procedure was “high” in eight studies and “moderate” in 14 studies. The study participants were patients with musculoskeletal pain, and many studies reported significant improvements in pain and functional disability outcomes following treatment using MSAT. For conclusion, MSAT refers to a treatment method in which a patient performs active/passive movements under the supervision of a physician with the acupuncture needle retained at the insertion site. However, there are a limited number of MSAT studies, and various treatment types and related terms are mixed. Further studies, classification of the types of MSAT using a well-established classification system, and a clearer definition of the MSAT concept are needed.

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Effectiveness of lumbar motion style acupuncture treatment on inpatients with acute low back pain: A pragmatic, randomized controlled trial
Oh-Bin Kwon, Dong Wook Hwang, Dong-Hyeob Kang, Sang-Joon Yoo, Do-Hoon Lee, Minjin Kwon, Seon-Woo Jang, Hyun-Woo Cho, Sang Don Kim, Kyong Sun Park, Eun-San Kim, Yoon Jae Lee, Doori Kim, In-Hyuk Ha
Complementary Therapies in Medicine.2024; 82: 103035. CrossRef
Graded exercise with motion style acupuncture therapy for a patient with failed back surgery syndrome and major depressive disorder: a case report and literature review
Do-Young Kim, In-Hyuk Ha, Ju-Yeon Kim
Frontiers in Medicine.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Effectiveness and Safety of Progressive Loading–Motion Style Acupuncture Treatment for Acute Low Back Pain after Traffic Accidents: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Seung-Yoon Hwangbo, Young-Jun Kim, Dong Guk Shin, Sang-Joon An, Hyunjin Choi, Yeonsun Lee, Yoon Jae Lee, Ju Yeon Kim, In-Hyuk Ha
Healthcare.2023; 11(22): 2939. CrossRef

Trends in Clinical Research on Ultrasound-Guided Acupuncture: A Scoping Review: Sook-Hyun Lee, Yoon Jae Lee, Ju Yeon Kim, In Heo, Jae-Heung Cho, Byung-Kwan Seo, Yeoncheol Park, Jung-Hyun Kim, In-Hyuk Ha; Perspect Integr Med. 2024;3(3):152-161. Published online October 23, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2024.10.004

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Acupuncture is widely used to reduce pain and improve function in various conditions. Despite ongoing research in ultrasound-guided acupuncture, evidence supporting efficacy remains inconclusive. This study aimed to examine Korean and international research trends, clinical efficacy, and safety of ultrasound-guided acupuncture by performing a scoping review of clinical research on ultrasound-guided acupuncture. Literature searches were conducted across 11 databases, including all clinical studies published before April 2024, without restrictions on condition/disease or type of study. Of the 2,644 identified articles, 25 studies were selected for review, mostly involving patients with musculoskeletal pain, and post-stroke sequelae. Interventions included ultrasound-guided acupuncture, warming acupuncture, dry needling, and electroacupuncture. The effectiveness of ultrasound-guided acupuncture was evaluated using pain, functional disability, and effective rate as outcome measures, and most studies reported significant improvements. This study is the first scoping review to report on trends, clinical efficacy, and safety of ultrasound-guided acupuncture. While it demonstrates potential for treating musculoskeletal disorders, post-stroke sequelae, spinal injuries, and other conditions/diseases, research on its application remains limited to specific conditions/diseases. Furthermore, substantial variations were observed in types of acupuncture, application areas, and treatment frequencies. Future research should focus on high-quality randomized controlled trials with standardized ultrasound frequencies for specific conditions/diseases.

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Efficacy of ultrasound-guided pharmacopuncture: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Jinho Lee, Sook-Hyun Lee, Yoon Jae Lee, Ju Yeon Kim, In Heo, Jae-Heung Cho, Byung-Kwan Seo, Dong Kun Ko, In-Hyuk Ha
Medicine.2025; 104(11): e41733. CrossRef
Ultrasound-guided acupuncture therapy in Korea: advancing traditional practices with new technology
Sang-ho Lee, You Suk Youn, Min Chul Kim, Junghum Sun, Donghyon Ha, Tae-Hun Kim
Frontiers in Medicine.2025;[Epub] CrossRef

Original Article

Evidence Map of Acupuncture: Where We Stand and Where We Should Go: Tae-Hun Kim, Jung Won Kang; Perspect Integr Med. 2024;3(2):106-113. Published online June 21, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2024.06.006

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Background
Evidence mapping presents the current status of evidence on a specific field. The "Evidence Map of Acupuncture" published in 2014 gave an overall picture of the evidence on acupuncture treatments for various conditions/diseases. In this study, evidence in 2024 for the effect of acupuncture was reassessed.
Methods
The systematic reviews (SRs) on acupuncture for the 43 conditions/diseases where evidence was previously unclear or potentially effective in the "Evidence Map of Acupuncture" 2014 were searched in the PubMed and the Cochrane Library, and included SRs up to February, 2024. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations assessment in the included SRs was used for assessing the confidence level in the evidence of each condition.
Results
When compared with the results of the "Evidence Map of Acupuncture" 2014, the average number of randomized controlled trials included in a SR increased from 11 to 19.5 by 2024. However, the confidence level showed an overall decrease. The reasons for unclear evidence were mainly methodological limitations such as poor research design, small sample size and small number of studies, and the results of the 2024 reassessment did not show a significant difference in the reasons compared with the "Evidence Map of Acupuncture" 2014.
Discussion
To improve clinical evidence for acupuncture, simple repetition and increasing the number of new randomized controlled trials does not seem to be effective. To reduce redundancy, large scaled studies should be conducted, and a new critical appraisal tool for acupuncture is needed to avoid unfair evaluation of risk of bias in acupuncture research.

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A Review of Key Research and Engagement in 2023–2024
John McDonald, Jonquil W. Pinto, Lin Ang, Sandro Graca
Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine.2025; 31(4): 313. CrossRef
Robust Evidence in Integrative Medicine: Innovations, Challenges, and Future Directions
Ye-Seul Lee, Myeong Soo Lee, David Moher, In-Hyuk Ha, Jian-Ping Liu, Terje Alræk, Stephen Birch, Tae-Hun Kim, Yoon Jae Lee, Juan V.A. Franco, Jeremy Y. Ng, Holger Cramer
Perspectives on Integrative Medicine.2024; 3(3): 162. CrossRef

Review Articles

Characteristics and Quality of Traditional Chinese Therapies and Integrative Medicine Clinical Practice Guidelines for Musculoskeletal Disorders Published in Mainland China: Xue-Feng Wang, Jing-Ling Zuo, Lin-Jian Li, Lan-Dan Xu, Xiao-Zhong Liu, Si-Si Ma, Jian-Ping Liu; Perspect Integr Med. 2024;3(1):7-17. Published online February 22, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2024.02.002

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Background
Musculoskeletal disorders are prevalent in adults. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and integrative medicine (IM) are commonly used treatments which have clinical practice guidelines (CPGs). This study aimed to determine the characteristics and quality of these CPGs.
Methods
CPGs which recommended TCM/IM therapies in musculoskeletal conditions/diseases published in Chinese or English between January 2018 to December 2022 in mainland China were retrieved and analyzed for guideline classification, funding source, conflict of interest, and methodology. Appraisal of Guideline for Research and Evaluation Ⅱ including 6 domains, was applied to assess CPG quality.
Results
Of the 50 CPGs included, there were 19 TCM, 5 IM, and 26 western conventional medicine (WCM) guidelines of which osteoporosis (13, 26%), osteoarthritis (11, 22%) and rheumatoid arthritis (6, 12%) were the most frequent diseases. The TCM therapies recommended by the CPGs successively were acupuncture and moxibustion, Chinese patent medicine, and TCM decoction based on syndrome differentiation. Nearly half of the CPGs reported funding source (52%) and conflict of interest (48%). Thirty-six CPGs used the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations method to present summaries of evidence, the remaining did not report the method. Based on Appraisal of Guideline for Research and Evaluation Ⅱ scores, “clarity of presentation” scored the highest (55%), while “applicability” was the lowest (6%). No CPG was recommended without change, and 23 CPGs were not recommended.
Conclusion
The quality of CPGs for musculoskeletal conditions/diseases in China is generally low. Future CPGs should pay more attention to standardized developing procedures.

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Combination therapy of shinbaro and celecoxib improves joint pain and cartilage degradation in an osteoarthritis mouse model
Jae-Hwan Jang, Yurim Song, Seok Hee Han, Bo Ram Choi, Yoon Jae Lee, In-Hyuk Ha
Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Effects of Combined Shinbaro and Celecoxib in a Complete Freund’s Adjuvant-Induced Inflammatory Pain Mouse Model
Jae-Hwan Jang, Yurim Song, Seok Hee Han, Bo Ram Choi, Yoon Jae Lee, In-Hyuk Ha
Journal of Inflammation Research.2025; Volume 18: 2349. CrossRef

Minimum Clinically Important Difference for Nonsurgical Interventions for Spinal Diseases: Choosing the Appropriate Values for an Integrative Medical Approach: Ye-Seul Lee, Sungmin Lee, Yoon Jae Lee, In-Hyuk Ha; Perspect Integr Med. 2023;2(2):86-99. Published online June 23, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2023.06.003

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The minimal clinically important difference (MCID) plays a crucial role in the design and interpretation of clinical trials, as it helps in distinguishing between statistically significant and clinically meaningful outcomes. This scoping review aims to collate and appraise the current research concerning the validation of MCIDs for surgical and nonsurgical measures for spine disorders. Two databases of MEDLINE (PubMed and EMBASE) were searched. There were 1,590 studies retrieved and 79 were selected as eligible for review. Measurement tools such as the Oswestry Disability Index, Neck Disability Index, Numeric Rating Scale, and Visual Analogue Scale were assessed by regions and interventions. A total of 24 studies identified MCIDs on nonsurgical interventions, and 55 studies identified MCIDs on surgical interventions. The range of MCIDs varied greatly depending on study population, specific interventions, calculation methods, and outcomes. This scoping review emphasizes the complexity and variability in determining MCIDs for musculoskeletal or neurodegenerative spinal diseases, influenced by several factors including the intervention type, measurement tool, patient characteristics, and disease severity. Given the wide range of reported MCIDs, it is crucial to consider the specific context when interpreting these values in clinical and research settings. To select an appropriate MCID value for comparison in a clinical trial, careful consideration of the patient group, intervention, assessment tools, and primary outcomes is necessary to ensure that the chosen MCID aligns with the research question at hand.

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Minimum clinically important difference and substantial clinical benefit in patients with chronic temporomandibular disorders
Jaemin Son, Eun‐San Kim, Yoon Jae Lee, Nam‐Woo Lee, In‐Hyuk Ha
Journal of Oral Rehabilitation.2024; 51(8): 1468. CrossRef
Safety and effectiveness of integrative Korean medicine for the management of patients sustaining injuries in traffic accidents during pregnancy: A retrospective chart review and questionnaire survey
Dahyun Kyung, Kyoung Sun Park, Ji-Eun Koo, Sujin Kim, Jiwon Park, Jun-Hyo Bae, Jieun Bae, Suna Kim, Yoon Jae Lee, In-Hyuk Ha
Medicine.2024; 103(21): e38250. CrossRef

A Review of Major Secondary Data Resources Used for Research in Traditional Korean Medicine: Chunhoo Cheon, Bo-Hyoung Jang, Seong-Gyu Ko; Perspect Integr Med. 2023;2(2):77-85. Published online June 23, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2023.06.002

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Research in health care using secondary data is steadily increasing worldwide. In this study, secondary healthcare data was reviewed, so that the information can potentially be used for Korean medicine research. The characteristics of the data, including the variables related to Korean medicine and the method of obtaining data, were summarized. The Korean medicine variables were extracted from the Korean Medicine Utilization Survey, Korea Health Panel, Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, Medical Service Experience Survey, and the health insurance claims data. Except for health insurance claims data, the data was obtained through relatively simple procedures. There were differences in the characteristics of each secondary data and the extent to which it was used in Korean medicine research. Many Korean medicine studies using secondary data will be conducted in the future and researchers must understand the characteristics of the data and analyze it appropriately.

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Real-world data analysis on effectiveness of integrative therapies: A practical guide to study design and data analysis using healthcare databases
Ye-Seul Lee, Yoon Jae Lee, In-Hyuk Ha
Integrative Medicine Research.2023; 12(4): 101000. CrossRef
Trends in the treatment of fibromyalgia in South Korea between 2011 and 2018: a retrospective analysis of cross-sectional health insurance data
Jin-Sil Yu, Eun-San Kim, Kyoung Sun Park, Yoon Jae Lee, Yeon Cheol Park, Dongwoo Nam, Eun-Jung Kim, In-Hyuk Ha
BMJ Open.2023; 13(12): e071735. CrossRef

Original Article

An Observational Study on the Anatomical Characteristics of Acupoint CV23 (Lianquan) with Ultrasonography: Hongmin Chu, Seongjun Park, Jaehyo Kim, Wonbae Ha, Seung Bum Yang, Kyungho Kang, Jongho Kim, Jungtae Leem, Sanghun Lee; Perspect Integr Med. 2023;2(1):49-55. Published online February 21, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2023.02.007

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Graphical Abstract Abstract PDF

Background
Acupoint CV23 is one of the most commonly used acupoints for the treatment of post-stroke dysphagia and tongue pain. However, care must be taken during the procedure to consider the position of glands and blood vessels in the subcutaneous space of the acupoint. Needling depths to the geniohyoid muscle reportedly range from 0.4 to 3.3 cm. Using ultrasound imaging, we aimed to observe the anatomical characteristics around acupoint CV23 to derive a safe needling depth.
Methods
Ultrasound images of acupoint CV23 accessed from the Standard Ultrasound Image of Acupoint database were retrospectively analyzed for 30 participants aged in their 20s and 30s (15 male, 15 female), and the depth from the skin to the geniohyoid muscle was measured. Correlations between the needling depth and anthropometric factors (such as neck circumference) were analyzed.
Results
The average needling depth to the geniohyoid muscle was 1.59 ± 0.49 cm (male; 1.43 ± 0.52 cm, female, 1.75 ± 0.42 cm, p = 0.03). The geniohyoid muscle, anterior digastric muscles, and genioglossus muscle were observed in the subcutaneous area of acupoint CV23, and a risk of sublingual gland damage needs to be considered for oblique insertion of the acupuncture needle. No statistically significant correlations between the needling depth and anthropometric factors were observed.
Conclusion
Acupoint CV23 has a relatively shallow needling depth, and considering the presence of blood vessels and glands in the sublingual space, visualizing the surrounding anatomical structures using ultrasound was helpful to ensure safe needling practice.

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Efficacy of ultrasound-guided pharmacopuncture: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Jinho Lee, Sook-Hyun Lee, Yoon Jae Lee, Ju Yeon Kim, In Heo, Jae-Heung Cho, Byung-Kwan Seo, Dong Kun Ko, In-Hyuk Ha
Medicine.2025; 104(11): e41733. CrossRef
Survey on the current usage of ultrasound-guided procedures in Korean Medicine Clinics and Hospitals
Ju Yeon Kim, Jung Min Yun, Sook-Hyun Lee, Yoon Jae Lee, Dong Kun Ko, In Heo, Woo-Chul Shin, Jae-Heung Cho, Byung-Kwan Seo, In-Hyuk Ha
Medicine.2024; 103(14): e37659. CrossRef

Editorial

Integration of Acupuncture into UK Healthcare - A NICE Perspective: Why is Acupuncture Now Recommended for Chronic Pain but not for Back Pain or Osteoarthritis: Mike Cummings; Perspect Integr Med. 2023;2(1):3-7. Published online February 21, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2023.02.002

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Abstract PDF

In April 2021, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) published a guideline on chronic pain (NG193) with a recommendation to consider a single course of acupuncture treatment in patients with chronic primary pain. This positive recommendation came after the NICE guideline on low back pain and sciatica (NG59) announced in November 2016, that acupuncture treatment did not work for back pain, having previously recommended it in 2009 (CG88). This article attempts to explain this apparent contradiction in recommendations by tracing the history of acupuncture debates in the NICE guidelines over the last 2 decades.

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Current status of health technology assessment in Korean medicine
Myeong Soo Lee, Hye Won Lee
Evidence-Based Chinese Medicine and Technology Ass.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
A Review of Key Research and Engagement in 2022
John McDonald, Sandro Graca, Claudia Citkovitz, Lisa Taylor-Swanson
Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine.2023; 29(8): 455. CrossRef

Case Report

Common Peroneal Nerve Entrapment Masked by Acute Lumbar Disc Herniation: Integrated Korean Medicine Treatment with Ultrasound-Guided Pharmacopuncture: Hyunsuk Park, Jinhyun Kim, Sungjae Yoo, Jung-Min Yun, Kwangchan Song; Perspect Integr Med. 2024;3(3):177-183. Published online October 23, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2024.10.008

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Abstract PDF

The symptoms of common peroneal nerve (CPN) entrapment are similar to the symptoms of lumbar herniated intervertebral disc. We present the successful treatment of CPN entrapment masked by acute lumbar disc herniation. A 49-year-old man presented with low back pain and numbness in his left leg. Following admission, patient history, physical examination, and radiology findings, the patient received integrated Korean medicine (KM) treatment (acupuncture, pharmacopuncture, ultrasound-guided pharmacopuncture, moxibustion and cupping, herbal medicine, and chuna therapy) for lumbar disc herniation. Outcome measures included the numeric rating scale, the European quality of life five dimensions, and the Oswestry disability index. Symptoms persisted, and CPN compression was consequently suspected. On Day 12 of 23, in addition to KM treatment, an ultrasound-guided Shinbaro2 pharmacopuncture (4 mL) was performed on the CPN entrapment site. Significant symptom relief resulted after CPN treatment on Day 12. Improvement was particularly evident in the lower leg and ankle, areas where the pain had previously been misattributed to symptoms of lumbar disc herniation. His low back pain and radiating pain to the back of the left femur started to improve from Day 20 and were mild at discharge. This case highlights the importance of considering peripheral nerve entrapment in patients presenting with symptoms similar to lumbar disc herniation. It also suggests that combining traditional KM with modern diagnostic techniques such as ultrasonography, may be beneficial in the precise location for pharmacopuncture treatment. Further studies are recommended to validate these findings and explore the broader applicability of this approach.

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Differential Gene Expression Analysis in a Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Rat Model via RNA Sequencing: Identification of Key Molecular Pathways and Therapeutic Insights
Jin Young Hong, Wan-Jin Jeon, Hyunseong Kim, Changhwan Yeo, Hyun Kim, Yoon Jae Lee, In-Hyuk Ha
Biomedicines.2025; 13(1): 192. CrossRef

Original Article

The Status of Nationwide Implementation of Integrative Medicine Programs by Japanese Local Government from a “Social Model” Viewpoint: Hui-Yu Chung, Masaki Moroi, Yasutaka Hojo, Fu-Shih Chen, Keiko Yukawa, Yoshiharu Motoo, Ichiro Arai; Perspect Integr Med. 2024;3(2):98-105. Published online June 21, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2024.06.005

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Graphical Abstract Abstract PDF

Background
The world's demographics are transitioning, prompting governments globally to adopt diverse health promotion and disease prevention programs to enhance people's quality of life. While several integrative medicine (IM) programs, including traditional or alternative medicine, may be in place, the level of implementation nationwide is unknown. This research represents the first nationwide study in Japan, conducted in 2018 before local government health programs were cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The study examines the use of IM by local government in Japan and its safety and effectiveness as a “social model.”
Methods
IM programs for disease prevention and health promotion of all 1,944 Japanese local governments in 2018, were retrieved the using the Web Archive Project of the National Diet Library, which is a maintained website repository for all Japanese local government including IM and health programs.
Results
A total of 1,739 IM programs were implemented in 537 local governments (27.6% among all Japanese local governments). These included programs for Yoga (1,242; 71.4% of the projects), Qigong (211; 12.1%), and Aromatherapy (145; 8.3%). Among the providers of the programs, only 16 (0.9%) were national medical-related license holders. The purpose of disease prevention or health promotion was not described with scientific basis (safety and effectiveness).
Conclusion
Japanese local government conduct health-promoting IM programs, but untrained providers administer many of them. There needs to be more evidence to support the alleged health promotion objectives. Local governments require better support and evidence-based planning to rectify this situation.

Citations

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Advanced Glycation End-Product-Modified Heat Shock Protein 90 May Be Associated with Urinary Stones
Takanobu Takata, Shinya Inoue, Kenshiro Kunii, Togen Masauji, Junji Moriya, Yoshiharu Motoo, Katsuhito Miyazawa
Diseases.2025; 13(1): 7. CrossRef

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