A pilot study of the role of acupuncture to reduce pain in pediatric patients

The purpose of this pilot study is to determine the role of acupuncture in the management of pain, nausea and vomiting in pediatric, adolescent and young adult patients at Rush University Medical Center. This will be a one-arm uncontrolled study done with the support and collaboration of Paul Kent and Allen Korenblit, and other pediatric hematology/oncology study team members including Debra Michalek, Rebecca Allison, Jessica Ittner, Elizabeth Vlaming and Peter Harvey. We expect to recruit 48 patients. Consenting participants will receive eight acupuncture treatments at no charge, plus will receive a small cash stipend at the completion of each treatment.

According to research studies, 30 to 70 percent of pediatric patients with chronic illness experience pain. Acupuncture has been found to be helpful in reducing pain in several adult and pediatric conditions.

Studies suggest up to 80 percent of pediatric patients utilize complementary medicine. Additionally, studies show that in pediatric patients, acupuncture is feasible and accepted as a supportive therapy, and considered safe.

You may be eligible to participate in this study if you:

• Are 5-20 years of age
• Are experiencing pain, nausea, or vomiting

This is a partial list of eligibility requirements. To inquire about your eligibility, please call the contact number provided. If you wish to inquire via email, please include the title of the study in your message.