Study protocol for a prospective, investigator-initiated clinical trial on the vascular effects of acupuncture in the abdomen and lower limbs for patients with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome

• DOI: 10.1007/s00384-025-04868-z
• Publication Date: 2025-04-24T23:40:22Z
• Authors: Seok-Hee Jeon; Minhee Kim; Song Choi; Soeun Son; Jung-Sun Choi; Jae-Uk Sul; Young-Ho Moon; Yanghee You; Cong Duc Nguyen; Seonjong Kim; Changsu Na

Physicians classify irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea symptoms under the label IBS-D which represents a gastrointestinal disorder that meets specific functional diagnostic criteria. Studies show acupuncture helps manage though researchers do not understand if treatment points in abdomen provide better outcomes than standard lower body regions. The study investigates effects treatments using local and systemic needling techniques have on symptom expression gut microbial diversity features. employs randomized controlled single-blinded exploratory clinical trial design includes 36 participants diagnosed via Rome IV Participants are randomly allocated to one of three groups: abdominal acupuncture, limb or treatment. who receive eight sessions distributed throughout 4 weeks as clinicians activate connected function. Lifestyle education approved medications management make up provided participants. main outcome measures assess IBS Symptom Severity Scale (IBS-SSS) score changes from baseline at Week 5. Additional evaluation this comprise stool consistency examination alongside patient global assessments cold-heat surveys along EQ-5D-5L quality life assessment microbiota secondary outcomes. Research has been designed evaluate how compare relief adaptation preliminary data is expected reveal distinct patterns between wide-reaching suggests should be tailored personal basis. comparison efficacy adds our understanding therapy benefit for IBS-D. results will help guide practice support creation treatments.