Keywords
Liver depression and spleen deficiency
Acupoint catgut embedding
Auricular point pressing with beans
Symptom management
Self-efficacy
Quality of life
Submitted : 2025-05-06
Accepted : 2025-05-21
Published : 2025-06-05
Abstract
Objective: To explore the effects of acupoint catgut embedding combined with auricular point pressing with beans on symptom management self-efficacy and quality of life in patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) of liver depression and spleen deficiency type. Methods: Sixty patients with NASH of liver depression and spleen deficiency type admitted to our hospital from January 2021 to December 2023 were selected and divided into an acupoint catgut embedding group (n=30) and a combined group (n=30) using the envelope lottery method. The acupoint catgut embedding group received acupoint catgut embedding intervention, while the combined group received auricular point pressing with beans on the basis of the acupoint catgut embedding group. The two groups were compared in terms of TCM syndrome scores, symptom management self-efficacy [Chronic Disease Self-Efficacy Scale (CDSES)], and quality of life [Chronic Liver Disease Questionnaire (CLDQ)]. Results: After intervention, the combined group had lower TCM syndrome scores for both primary and secondary symptoms compared to the acupoint catgut embedding group (P < 0.05). The combined group also had higher scores in all dimensions and total score of the CDSES compared to the acupoint catgut embedding group (P < 0.05). Similarly, the combined group had higher scores in all dimensions and total score of the CLDQ compared to the acupoint catgut embedding group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Acupoint catgut embedding combined with auricular point pressing with beans can effectively improve TCM symptoms, enhance symptom management self-efficacy, and improve quality of life in patients with NASH of liver depression and spleen deficiency type.
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