Based on the resutls of literature review and interviews of experts, two rounds of Delphi surveys were conducted. The mean, importance ratio, coefficient of variation and coordination coefficient were used for assessment of survey from multiple perspectives, and finally form a framework model of factors affecting the efficacy of Tuina therapy. A total of 37 experts were selected for questionnaire surveys, the positive coefficients of experts' participatation in the first round and second round were 92.5% and 80.0%, respectively. The overall coordination coefficient in the second round is 0.68. The items were included into the consensus meeting if the importance ratio of items were equal to and more than 80%. After the expert consensus meeting, 22 items were included to form a framework model of factors affecting the efficacy of Tuina therapy, and summarized as 5 major influencing factors, including diagnostic factors, treatment factors, prognostic factors, patient factors, and doctor-patient communication. This framework can guide and help young Tuina practitioners to improve clinical efficacy. It is also clearly pointed out that the effect of Tuina for pain is not only related to disease diagnosis or manipulation, but also related to home exercise, health care, and doctor-patient communication.

Tuina (Chinese massage) is an important part of Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is a simple and inexpensive technique, and has shown effectiveness for muscle and bone diseases, visceral diseases, gynecological diseases, and common diseases in children. This paper aims to analyze the factors influencing the effects of Tuina. The factors included the aspects of diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, patient factors and doctor-patient communication. During the treatment of Tuina, doctors should carry out good doctor-patient communication, properly evaluate and exam patients, and clarify diagnosis, take appropriate Tuina techniques according to the patients' constitution, health condition, and comorbidity. Only in such way, could Tuina achieve effectiveness and safety.