The effectiveness of acupuncture at Yaotongdian (EX-UE 7) for acute lumbar sprain: A protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND: Acupuncture at Yaotongdian (EX-UE 7) is increasingly used in acute lumbar sprain (ALS), and many studies have published that it is effective in the treatment of ALS. However, it is controversy if acupuncture at (EX-UE 7) can provide an evidence-based clinical benefit in the ALS population. METHODS: We will go through 8 databases, and conduct a systematic review of acupuncture on (EX-UE 7) and health-related outcomes in ALS patients according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews. The primary objective is to assess the impact of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines on clinical outcomes relevant to ALS patients, such as effective rate, life-quality evaluation, and adverse events. Cochrane Risk Assessment Tool will be used to assess the quality of eligible studies according to the Cochrane handbook. RESULTS: The results of this systematic review will provide a synthesis of current evidence of Acupuncture at Yaotongdian (EX-UE 7) and we have a specific opportunity to determine the efficacy and safety of it. CONCLUSION: This study will explore whether or not acupuncture on (EX-UE 7) can be used as one of the non-drug therapies to prevent or treat ALS. REGISTRATION NUMBER: 10.17605/OSF.IO/29QV7 (https://osf.io/29qv7/)