Laser Acupuncture for Pulmonary Function Test and Quality of Life in COPD Patients

Effectiveness and Safety of Laser Acupuncture on Pulmonary Function Test and Quality of Life in Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of laser acupuncture as an adjunct therapy in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The main research questions are:

• Does laser acupuncture, when combined with standard pharmacological treatment, improve lung function (measured by FEV1% and FEV1/FVC ratio) more than sham laser acupuncture after 4 weeks of therapy?
• Does this combination also lead to better quality of life, as assessed by the COPD Assessment Test (CAT) and the St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ), compared to the control group, after 4 and 8 weeks?
• Is there a correlation between lung function (FEV1%) and quality of life scores (CAT and SGRQ)?
• Are there any significant adverse effects caused by laser acupuncture compared to sham treatment?

Participants will:

• Undergo spirometry and complete CAT and SGRQ questionnaires.
• Receive either laser acupuncture or sham laser acupuncture sessions.
• Return for follow-up assessments at 4 and 8 weeks.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosed with stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) based on the Global Initiative for COPD (GOLD).
• No acute exacerbation in the last 4 weeks.
• Male or female participants aged 20 to 80 years.
• Willing to participate in the study until completion and has signed informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of lung surgery as treatment for COPD.
• Psychiatric or cognitive disorders.
• Underwent acupuncture within the last 2 weeks.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Presence of wounds or skin disorders at the laser acupuncture site.
• History of uncontrolled epilepsy.
• Fever > 38.0°C.