Development and Assessment of an Abbreviated Acupuncture Curriculum for Pediatricians.

Creator(s)

Jennifer J. Dilts, Children's Mercy HospitalFollow
Anna E. Esparham, Children's Mercy HospitalFollow
Madeline Boorigie, Children's Mercy HospitalFollow
Mark Connelly, Children's Mercy HospitalFollow
Jennifer Bickel, Children's Mercy Hospital

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-2022

Identifier

DOI: 10.1016/j.acap.2021.08.011

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Acupuncture has been shown to improve pain and other health outcomes in children and is well tolerated. However, use of acupuncture by pediatric medical providers is rare, in part due to the cost and time associated with formal training. We aimed to develop an abbreviated acupuncture curriculum and assess its impact and acceptability with academic pediatricians.

METHODS: In this pilot study, pediatricians received instruction in 2 acupuncture protocols for treating acute and chronic pain (Battlefield Acupuncture and Four Gates) during a 10-hour course developed by board-certified medical acupuncturists. Learning methods included an online module with videos and articles, 2 live workshops, and additional home practice. Participants completed a skills-based exam and pre- and post-tests measuring knowledge and attitudes about acupuncture treatment.

RESULTS: Forty-five physicians (divided among 3 cohorts) began the acupuncture training course, and 38 (84.4%) completed all components. The course significantly increased participants' perceived efficacy of acupuncture for acute and chronic pain. Participants showed significant improvement in acupuncture knowledge. All participants agreed that the course would influence their current medical practice, and all participants felt confident utilizing basic acupuncture. Additionally, all participants indicated that they would recommend the abbreviated acupuncture curriculum to a colleague.

CONCLUSIONS: Pediatricians became proficient in 2 acupuncture protocols with a 10-hour curriculum and found the format and content highly acceptable. Future plans include studying acupuncture implementation and expanding the course to other departments and institutions.

Journal Title

Acad Pediatr

Volume

22

Issue

1

First Page

160

Last Page

165

Keywords

Battlefield Acupuncture; Four Gates; acupuncture; curriculum; pain

Recommended Citation

Dilts JJ, Esparham AE, Boorigie ME, Connelly M, Bickel J. Development and Assessment of an Abbreviated Acupuncture Curriculum for Pediatricians. Acad Pediatr. 2022;22(1):160-165. doi:10.1016/j.acap.2021.08.011