Objectives
To 1) characterize complementary and alternative medicine (CAM)
studies for posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms (PTSD), 2) evaluate the
quality of these studies, and 3) systematically grade the scientific
evidence for individual CAM modalities for PTSD.
Design
Systematic Review. Eight data sources were searched. Selection
criteria included any study design assessing PTSD outcomes and any CAM
intervention. The body of evidence for each modality was assessed with the
Natural Standard evidence-based, validated grading rationale.™
Results and Conclusions
Thirty-three studies (n=1329) were reviewed. Scientific evidence of
benefit for PTSD was Strong for repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation
and Good for acupuncture, hypnotherapy, meditation, and visualization.
Evidence was Unclear or Conflicting for biofeedback, relaxation, Emotional
Freedom and Thought Field therapies, yoga, and natural products.
Considerations for clinical applications and future research recommendations
are discussed.