The efficacy of acupuncture for arthritis has been proven clinically in a US NIH study. Used in conjunction with conventional care, it tends to reduce discomfort by nearly 50% and increase ability to walk by nearly 50% when the patella is affected. The clinical trial was a double-blind trial which provided no treatment for part of the sample, ineffective acupunture for another part, and acupuncture as a natural arthritis treatment for the remainder.

The effectiveness of acupuncture for arthritis has been unclear from past studies. Many studies have been small with a limited number of sessions and/or patients. The new study is seen as "extremely encouraging," "well conducted," and demonstrating a "positive effect" according to Dr. Madeline Devey.

Beginning in China several thousand years ago, Acupuncture (the insertion of thin needles into the body, thus allowing the refocus and redirection of the body's natural energy or Qi.) is a natural arthritis treatment. Though it does not cure the disease and joint deterioration continues, Acupuncture relieves the pain.

Some patients with arthritis do not get relief from typical medical treatment. In these cases, acupuncture does seem to be effective, although the exact mechanism of relief is not known. Some physiological studies are focused on possible effects of acupuncture on the electromagnetic fields of the body. The placebo effect has also been viewed as a reason for pain relief. However, the current study is better designed than these other sugar-pill projects.

The effect of acupuncture combines treatment on the mental, emotional and physical levels. Acupuncture in Bristol England is well established with several traditional practioneers.

If you are looking for an acupuncture practitioner in Bristol, it is a good idea to look for one who is a member of the British Institute for Complimentary Medicine. This organization holds its members to a professional code of practice. Choosing an experienced practitioner can reduce the risks of acupuncture. Students of acupuncture need to spend a great deal of time under the supervision of an experienced practitioner. Practitioners of acupuncture in Bristol are known to be among the best in the western world.

 

Source: Keith Ferris