Evidence Mapping of TCM Nursing Appropriate Technology in Treatment of Cancer Pain
Pain Manag Nurs. 2026 Mar 9:S1524-9042(26)00019-6. doi: 10.1016/j.pmn.2026.02.002. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) nursing appropriate techniques are increasingly applied in cancer pain management, yet a comprehensive synthesis of current evidence is lacking.
AIMS: To systematically map the distribution and quality of evidence regarding the application of TCM nursing appropriate techniques for cancer pain.
DESIGN: Evidence mapping.
METHODS: Seven databases (including PubMed, Web of Science, and CNKI) were searched for RCTs and systematic reviews published within the last five years. Methodological quality was assessed using Cochrane tools and AMSTAR. Evidence maps were utilized for analysis.
RESULTS: Eighty-four studies (76 RCTs, 5 retrospective analyses, 3 SRs) were included. Publication volume showed a downward trend. Twenty-seven techniques were identified, predominantly emotional nursing, acupoint massage, and auricular acupressure. Evidence suggests these techniques, alone or combined with WHO three-step analgesia, effectively reduce pain and improve quality of life. Research focused primarily on lung, gastric, and breast cancers, with limited reporting on TCM-specific indicators (e.g., syndromes).
CONCLUSION: TCM nursing appropriate techniques demonstrate potential benefits in alleviating cancer pain. However, given the scarcity of high-quality evidence, rigorous, large-scale, multi-center RCTs and standardized systematic reviews are urgently needed.
RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: These techniques offer valuable, integrative strategies for cancer pain management and possess significant clinical utility for broader implementation.
NO PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: This study is an evidence map based on secondary data analysis.
PMID:41807180 | DOI:10.1016/j.pmn.2026.02.002