Plain-English translation of NCT06553053 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.
This trial is testing whether acupuncture—specifically a technique focused on balancing what traditional Chinese medicine calls the "Shaoyang pivot mechanism"—can help prevent Crohn's disease from flaring up again in people who have had repeated relapses. Researchers believe this approach may work by improving communication between your gut and brain, which plays a role in Crohn's disease. The treatment uses the same acupuncture needles you may have heard about, but applies them in a specific way designed to strengthen your digestive system.
Many people with Crohn's disease keep having flare-ups even when they're taking medications. This trial explores whether this medication can reduce how often those flare-ups happen by working on the underlying connection between your gut and brain—a link scientists now believe is important in Crohn's disease.
You likely qualify if…
You likely don't qualify if…
You would be randomly assigned to receive one of two types of acupuncture treatment, both designed to help prevent flare-ups. Both groups receive acupuncture focused on strengthening your spleen and kidneys; the experimental group also receives an additional approach targeting the Shaoyang mechanism. You would attend regular acupuncture sessions over the course of the trial. Researchers will monitor you through visits and tests to see how often you have flare-ups and measure markers of inflammation in your body to understand how the treatment is working.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 5, 2026 · Not medical advice
China
Sponsor
Shanghai Institute of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Meridian
Collaborators
Ruijin Hospital
Enrollment target
~106 participants
Started
August 2024
Primary completion
December 2028
Age range
16 Years – 75 Years
Last updated on clinicaltrials.gov in April 2026.
Reach out to the team running this trial. Response times vary — some teams are faster than others.
Central contact
Bao Chunhui, MD, PhD
Shanghai University of TCM
Tell us you're interested and we'll help connect you with the research team. We'll walk you through what to expect first — no email needed to get started.