Acupuncture/ Moxibustion Study

What is the Acupuncture/ Moxibustion study?
The Acupuncture/ Moxibustion Study is a research study designed to test alternative treatment strategies (Acupuncture and Moxibustion) to reduce neuropathy symptoms in persons living with HIV/AIDS. The study is being conducted at the Columbia University School of Nursing, Center for AIDS Research on West 168th street, NYC.

What is Peripheral Neuropathy?
Peripheral Neuropathy is often described as burning pain, aching, a “pins and needles” sensation and/or numbness in the legs, feet and/ or toes.

As a research study participant, what will be expected of me?
As a research study subject, you will be asked to attend one intake (baseline) session, 12 acupuncture/ moxibustion treatment sessions and 3 follow-up sessions; keep a diary of your medications and neuropathy symptoms and fill out questionnaires. The acupuncture/ moxibustion is administered by licensed acupuncturists trained in Traditional Chinese Medicine. There is no medication given as part of this study.

Who is eligible?
To be eligible you must have HIV/AIDS, be 18 years old or older, and be experiencing the numbness, aching, burning, or “pins and needles” sensation of peripheral neuropathy in the legs +/or feet for 2 months or longer.

Is there any compensation?
You will be given $10 for the baseline and treatment sessions and $10, $20, $20 for the 1st, 2nd and final follow-up sessions respectively. The total compensation for attending all sessions is $180. You will also receive a round trip Metrocard at the end of each session.

How long does the study last?
The duration of the study is 15 weeks. We will ask that you attend all sessions.

If you are interested in being part of the study or would like more information about the Acupuncture studies we are conducting please feel free to call us at 212-305-3041 or email directly at sam2113@columbia.edu
Thank you
Sharon A. Wyse
Research Study Facilitator