Acupoint stimulation-related therapies for the management of insomnia disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis protocol

Abstract

Review question / Objective: This meta-analysis will not only summarize all the ASRTs reported in clinical trials but also evaluate their effect on objective and subjective indices related to insomnia disorder. We will also perform subgroup analyses to identify possible confounders of the effects of ASRTs including treatment characteristics (e.g., acupoint selection, stimulation method, treatment duration) and patient characteristics (e.g., age, comorbidities, severity, and course of insomnia disorder). In doing so, we will endeavor to answer questions about whether efficacy varies according to the aspect of sleep targeted and whether the effects differ according to different modes of acupoint stimulation, acupoints applied, or specific types of insomnia, thereby providing the evidence to develop specific recommendations on prescribing ASRTs for insomnia disorder.