Is Acupuncture Effective, Or Is It All in You Mind?
Is acupuncture effective? That question remains debatable among many scientists and physicians, despite its 5,000 year history. Some medical minds assert that any benefit gained from using this therapy is derived entirely from the Placebo effect, caused by a belief that a therapy is effective, even if it has not therapeutic benefit, the belief causes our bodies to respond and improve.
In 2009, British researchers reviewed a multitude of published acupuncture research studies. They sought to determine if the research studies were substantive and proved its effectiveness.
A systematic review of acupuncture for the most commonly occurring forms of chronic pain (back, knee and head) between 2003 and 2008 were analyzed.
The results showed for short-term results, acupunctured demonstrated significant superiority over sham acupuncture for back pain, knee pain, and headaches. For longer outcomes (6 to 12 months), acupuncture was significant more effective for knee pain and tension headaches, and was inconsistent for chronic back pain (one positive, one inconclusive).
The growing research findings involving recent research indicate that acupuncture’s effect is not representative of the Placebo effect in treating the most common pain conditions. The researchers posed the question-is it now time to change research priorities and redirect the focus to asking more questions with greater clinical impact about whether the overall benefit of this treatment is cost-effective?
Since acupuncture has been used in the Chinese tradition for over 5,000 years, that’s a sign it works. Also, it’s been over 35 years since President Nixon’s trip to China and the introduction of Chinese medicine to the US.
Acupuncture is used in the industrialized world to treat a wide variety of illnesses. While many people find relief, it is usually frowned upon by the medical establishment. Despite this reservation its used and is apparently effective in relieving numerous symptoms, particulary pain.
Want to find out more about Chinese Medicine, then visit Elaine R. Ferguson, MD’s site on how to choose the best acupuncture for your needs.
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