Trends in Acupuncture Training Research: Focus on Practical Phantom Models

Abstract

The purpose of this review was to identify research trends in acupuncture training systems and models and to analyze acupuncture training using phantom models. Articles on acupuncture training were retrieved from domestic and foreign electronic databases (PubMed, CNKI, CiNii, NDSL, KISS, RISS and KMBase). The search included studies conducted from January 1, 2010 to October 1, 2021. Acupuncture training was analyzed by categorization into acupoint location training and needling training. Acupuncture training was most frequently studied in China, acupoint location training was the most studied in 2012, and needling training was the most studied in 2013 and 2020. Among them, a silicone model with a sensor was used for training in acupoint location, and silicone and agarose gel were frequently used for needling training. Classifications of the phantom models for needling training by topic included phantom development, phantom-based education and evaluation system, phantom-based quantitative measurement, comparison of kinematic characteristics of hand motion between experts and beginners, and phantom models for acupoint location and needling training. Further research on the development of acupuncture practice training systems to improve practical skills is needed.