Background: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a major symptom of distress among chemotherapy-treated cancer survivors. Although various interventions have been attempted, there is no criterion-standard treatment.
Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the efficacy and safety of auricular acupressure (AA) in improving peripheral neuropathy symptoms in breast cancer patients undergoing taxane-based treatment.
Methods: A total of 51 eligible participants were enrolled and randomly allocated (1:1) to AA or sham control groups. The intervention was performed weekly for 3 weeks using different ear points, depending on the group. The Total Neuropathy Score was used to measure CIPN objectively. The Numerical Rating Scale and the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy-20 were used to measure the subjective symptoms of CIPN. Outcomes were compared between groups by time interaction using generalized estimating equations based on the intention-to-treat principle.
Results: Only 1 participant dropped out because of nausea and mild fever. The results of generalized estimating equations showed significant improvement in Numerical Rating Scale scores on the hands and feet and total Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy-20 in the experimental group compared with the sham control group (all Ps < .05). Although the experimental group showed a greater reduction in Total Neuropathy Score scores than the sham control group, no significant differences were found.
Conclusion: Auricular acupressure is an effective and safe nurse-led intervention for managing CIPN symptoms in breast cancer patients.
Implications for practice: The findings help nurses to integrate AA easily and usefully into nursing care, contributing to managing symptoms of CIPN in cancer patients and survivors.
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