Presentation summary

Background :
The evolution of communication and internet technologies has transformed healthcare, particularly through remote healthcare, which allows consultations and treatments from home. This approach improves access in underserved areas, reduces travel costs, and provides timely, personalized services. Acupressure, a non-invasive complementary medicine modality activates acupoints through manual pressure.This study evaluates the evidence from trials focused on the efficacy of mobile-application-based self-acupressure programs in treating health issues.

Methods :
Two major English-language databases (PubMed and Cochrane) were searched for clinical trialsassessing the efficacy of mobile-application-based self-acupressure programs for management of commondiseases from their inception until January 1, 2025.

Results :
Smartphone applications for self-performed auricular acupressure were successful in management of musculoskeletal pain. Self-acupressure supported by a smartphone app was beneficial in reducing menstrualpain. A mobile app to teach self-acupressure for cancer survivors was usable and feasible, improving cancer-related fatigue and sleep disturbances. A self-care app instructing acupressure for cancer patients reduced stress, anxiety and pain in chemotherapy waiting rooms. Smartphone app for self-administered auricularacupressure had notable effects in decreasing body weight. auricular acupressure device with a self-helpsmartphone app revealed significant improvements in chronic tinnitus. Acupressure combined with cognitive therapies via mobile app caused significant reduction in emotional intensity.

Conclusion :
Limited research on smartphone apps for self-acupressure suggests they may be beneficial, but further studies are needed to evaluate their effectiveness in combination with this treatment method.