Home-based transcutaneous electrical acupuncture-point stimulation for depressive symptoms in inflammatory bowel disease: a randomized feasibility study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Depressive symptoms are common in individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and are associated with poor disease outcomes. Transcutaneous electrical acupuncture point stimulation (TEAS) is a noninvasive intervention with potential benefits for inflammation but remains untested in IBD. We developed a smartphone application for home-based TEAS self-administration and evaluated its feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effects.

Methods

In a randomized feasibility study, IBD patients with Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) scores ≥ 8 were recruited through Crohn's and Colitis UK. Participants were remotely trained to use the TEAS device, locate acupoints, and self-administer the treatment via the app. Group A completed 30-min daily sessions for 21 da

SUBMITTER: Huang C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12577661 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature