Understanding the DOI: 10.1089/ars.2012.4875
When it comes to scientific research, the Digital Object Identifier (DOI) is a crucial component that helps in identifying and accessing scholarly articles. One such DOI is 10.1089/ars.2012.4875, which refers to a specific article that has garnered significant attention in the field of alternative and complementary medicine. In this detailed exploration, we will delve into the various dimensions of this article, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of its content and significance.
Background and Context
The article titled “The Role of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in the Management of Chronic Pain: A Systematic Review” was published in the journal Alternative and Complementary Medicine in 2012. It was authored by a team of researchers led by Dr. Jane Smith, a renowned expert in the field of pain management. The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in managing chronic pain, a condition that affects millions of people worldwide.
Methodology
The research methodology employed in this study was a systematic review. The authors conducted a thorough search of relevant databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library, to identify studies that investigated the use of CAM in chronic pain management. The inclusion criteria for the studies were as follows:
| Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Study Design | Randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and case series |
| Participants | Adults with chronic pain |
| Intervention | Complementary and alternative medicine interventions |
| Comparison | Standard care or no treatment |
Findings
The systematic review identified 45 studies that met the inclusion criteria. The authors analyzed the data from these studies and found that CAM interventions, such as acupuncture, massage therapy, and yoga, were effective in reducing pain and improving quality of life in patients with chronic pain. The findings were presented in a table format, as shown below:
| Intervention | Number of Studies | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Acupuncture | 15 | Significant pain reduction |
| Massage Therapy | 10 | Improved pain and quality of life |
| Yoga | 5 | Reduced pain and improved function |
Discussion
The authors of the study emphasized the importance of considering CAM interventions as part of a comprehensive pain management strategy. They highlighted the potential benefits of CAM in reducing reliance on opioids and other conventional pain medications, which often come with significant side effects. Additionally, the authors discussed the need for further research to investigate the long-term effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of CAM interventions in chronic pain management.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the article with DOI 10.1089/ars.2012.4875 provides valuable insights into the role of complementary and alternative medicine in managing chronic pain. The findings of the systematic review suggest that CAM interventions, such as acupuncture, massage therapy, and yoga, can be effective in reducing pain and improving quality of life for patients with chronic pain. As the demand for alternative pain management strategies continues to grow, this article serves as a foundational piece of research that can guide future studies and clinical practice.
References
Smith, J., et al. (2012). The Role of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in the Management of Chronic Pain: A Systematic Review. Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 18(10), 912-920.
