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This systematic review and network meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness of several traditional Chinese medicine therapies for chronic nonspecific low back pain, a widespread and burdensome clinical condition. Researchers searched four major databases — Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library — identifying randomised controlled trials that examined interventions including moxibustion, cupping, acupuncture, combined acupuncture and cupping, and traditional Chinese exercises such as tai chi or qigong.
When analysing pain levels using the Visual Analogue Scale, all five therapies demonstrated statistically significant reductions compared to control conditions. When therapies were ranked using the surface under the cumulative ranking curve method, traditional Chinese exercises achieved the highest ranking for pain relief, followed by moxibustion, combined acupuncture and cupping, acupuncture alone, and cupping. For functional disability as measured by the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire, both moxibustion and acupuncture produced significant improvements, with moxibustion ranking highest. For the Oswestry Disability Index, acupuncture demonstrated a significant advantage and offered broader benefit across multiple outcome measures.
The findings suggest that these therapies work through different mechanisms, providing clinicians with a range of options depending on the patient’s primary concern — whether pain intensity or physical function.
Conclusion: Traditional Chinese medicine therapies, particularly traditional Chinese exercises and moxibustion, appear effective for reducing pain and improving function in people with chronic nonspecific low back pain, with the best choice of therapy potentially depending on individual patient outcomes.
Source: Ding J, Huang H, Wan Y and colleagues. Journal of back and musculoskeletal rehabilitation (2026). View on PubMed (PMID 42105098) · doi:10.1177/10538127261435659
