Acupuncture for arthritis has been shown to be effective in a United States National Institute of Health study. When used in addition to standard care it has reduced pain by 40% and increased mobility by 40% when the joint involved is the knee. The study was a double blind study which included no treatment for some of the patients, sham acupuncture for others and acupuncture as a natural arthritis treatment for others.

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.

Acupuncture for arthritis is often most effective for patients who have not had success with conventional medical treatments. One previous study, tried to explain the successes of acupunctures at pain reduction by studying its effect on a patients' electromagnetic fields, while another study wrote it off as a placebo effect. However the most recent study is by far the best conducted and conclusive.

Acupuncture treatment may have effects on mental and emotional as well as the physical state. Acupuncture in Bristol, Great Britain is time-honoured with a number of acupuncture specialists.

When choosing a practioneers of acupuncture in Bristol it is wise to find someone who is a member of the British Acupuncture Council. The members of this organization are subject to a professional code of practice. Acupuncture carries risk and it is most likely to give positive results in the hands of someone experienced. Students should spend a significant amount of time working under supervision However, for those lucky enough to live in Bristol it is not too much to say that acupuncture in Bristol is among the best available in the western world.

 

Source: Keith Ferris