BACKGROUND: Acupressure and qigong are Chinese medicine-based modalities that can work in synergy to improve chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). This study examines the effect of a combined qigong and acupressure intervention on CIPN among cancer patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This randomized controlled trial included cancer patients experiencing CIPN. Participants were randomly allocated to intervention and waitlist control groups (1:1). The intervention group received a 16-week combined qigong and self-administered acupressure intervention. The primary outcome was self-reported CIPN severity (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy/Gynecologic Oncology Group-Neurotoxicity). Other outcomes included objectively measured CIPN severity (DPNCheck), handgrip strength (dynamometer), physical performance (Short Physical Performance Battery), fall incidence, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General). Data were collected at baseline, 16 weeks, and 28 weeks. Intention-to-treat analysis was carried out. RESULTS: The study randomly assigned 110 patients (mean (standard deviation) age 61.86 years (9.31 years); 49 (89.1%) female), among whom 103 completed the study. After intervention, the reduction in self-reported CIPN severity in the intervention group was significantly larger than in the control group (mean difference -3.86, 95% confidence interval CI -6.14 to -1.58), p = 0.001). The intervention showed significant benefit in reducing self-reported CIPN severity (group x time p = 0.004), physical performance (group x time p = 0.025), and HRQoL (group x time p < 0.001). The effect on objectively measured CIPN severity, handgrip strength, and fall incidence did not reach statistical significance. CONCLUSIONS: A combined qigong and acupressure intervention versus waitlist control significantly improved self-reported CIPN among cancer patients. Incorporating the combined intervention into standard practice is recommended.

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