Efficacy of acupressure at ghost points and yin tang for children with autism spectrum disorder A randomized controlled study

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a psychological development disorder that causes difficulties with social communication and interaction, as well as restricted and repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests, and activities. It often affects children between the ages of one and three, exhibiting unique symptoms. It has been identified as the primary risk factor for childhood mental disabilities, with a growing occurrence in recent years. The World Health Organization estimated that one in 160 children globally has ASD, with a male-to-female ratio of 4:1. The number of reported ASD cases has increased approximately 20-fold over the past 30 years. Previous studies observed that ghost point bring benefits in ASD and cognitive impairment. this study is unique has ghost point and yin tang used as therapeutic point for ASD. A Randomized controlled trial will be adopted for this study. The simple randomization method with 1:1 ratio will be done for 60 subjects get a sample size of (n=30) in each group. After obtaining informed consent, participants who fit the inclusion criteria will be randomly allocated into GROUP A (study group) GROUP B (control group). GROUP A Acupressure will be given on following points, it will be in unilaterally left for man and right side for women: Shuigou (GV 26), Shaoshang (LU 11), Yinbai (SP 1), Daling (PC 7), Shenmai (BL 62), Fengfu (GV 16), Jiache(ST 6), Chengjiang (CV 24), Laogong (PC 8), Shangxing(GV 23), Quchi (LI 11) and 

Yin tang ( M-HN-3). Slight pressure is given using a finger in clockwise rotation three times and anticlockwise rotation three times, then again clockwise rotation three times, and ending with a slight press. proceed for three alternate days per week for 12weeks. While the GROUP B (control group) will be in waiting list. As a primary assessment The Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) is used to measure the behavior and autism diagnosis of the patients at baseline and 12th week. As a Secondary outcome Assessment The Indian Scale for Assessment of Autism (ISAA) is used to measure the Indian standard behavior and autism diagnosis of the patients on baseline and at 12th week.