The experience of acupuncture for treatment of substance dependence

To explore the meaning of substance abusers' experience while receiving acupuncture as a part of the treatment for substance dependence.

Phenomenology. Eight participants with diagnosis of substance dependence were selected for the study. The participants were in an inpatient setting with detoxification and rehabilitation programs provided to substance abusers.

In 1997, eight substance abusers who had accepted acupuncture as a part of their treatment for substance dependence were interviewed about their experiences with acupuncture treatment. Data collection included interviews with each of the subjects, the researcher's field notes, and demographic data obtained from the participants' medical records. The verbatim transcripts of each of the interviews were analyzed using Giorgi's modification of phenomenological method.

Analysis of the data after one treatment with acupuncture indicated seven major themes: anticipation of pain, apprehension concerning a new experience, mood elevation, inability to describe the experience, physical sensation, relaxation, and improved sleep.

The substance abusers' experiences with acupuncture revealed an acceptance of a new treatment method, and demonstrated potential for healing through integration and balance. Further research is indicated to assess the effects of repeated treatments.