Acupuncture
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture originated in China over 2000 years ago. In terms of complementary medicine, it is thought of as part of the medical system organized around traditional Chinese medicine. Worldwide, it is one of the most commonly used procedures, but also incorporates elements from other countries like Japan and Korea.
In the United States, acupuncture has come to contain a variety of procedures that involve stimulation of specific points on the body, most often with needles that penetrate the skin. Most people report little pain as the needles are inserted. It is important to only seek treatment from a qualified practitioner of the therapy. Minimally, they should have a license and certification (requirements vary by state).
How is acupuncture thought to
work? Is it safe?
In 1996, the Food and Drug Adminsitration (FDA) approved acupuncture needles for use by licensed practitioners. The needles must be sterile, nontoxic, and for single use only. Well over eight million US adults have used acupuncture, with few complications reported to the FDA.
Does acupuncture help?
The National Institute of Health reports that there are several studies on acupuncture which show it " may be useful as an adjunct treatment or an acceptable alternative or be included in a comprehensive management program."
Specifically cited for positive results from acupuncture were headaches, postoperative and chemotherapy nausea, fibromyalgia, menstral cramps, osteoarthritis, asthma and lower back pain.
One NIH/NCCAM-funded study concluded that for osteoarthritis of the knee, acupuncture provided both pain relief and improved functioning.