Is there proof that acupuncture works?

Before becoming an acupuncturist, I spent many years as a quantitative research expert in the pharmaceutical industry. I know how important data are, when it comes to healthcare.

Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years. It also has a growing body of modern research evidence, including fMRI and imaging evidence, supporting its use. As a result:

• The American College of Physicians recommends acupuncture for the treatment of low back pain

• The American College of Rheumatology includes acupuncture in its guidelines from osteoarthritis of the knee, hip and hand

• The American Socienty of Clinical Oncology notes its usefulness for cancer treatment related pain, fatigue and hot flashes

• The American College of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck includes acupuncture as a treatment option for allergic rhinitis

• The CDC includes acupuncture in its recommendations for acute and chronic back and neck pain as a safe, effective and durable treatment first-line option instead of opiods

• The NIH recognizes its efficacy across a range of conditions

• The WHO recognizes that acupuncture works, for over 100 conditions

• Acupuncture is used by renowned institutions like Memorial Sloan Kettering and the VA

The efficacy of acupuncture has been demonstrated for conditions beyond those listed above, for everything from headaches and migraines, to fertility issues and painful periods, to menopause symptoms and more.

What does this mean for you? Confidence that acupuncture is a real treatment option that is worthy of consideration as part of your healthcare.