The response to acupuncture therapy in patients with chronic disabling pain

Twenty-one patients had acupuncture treatment for chronic, disabling pain. Ten (47.5%) thought they had obtained worthwhile relief by the time treatment was completed. Six (30%) had no or negligible benefit and five (25%) had some aggravation of their pain at some stage of the procedure. In this group of patients, with the technique we describe, we were unable to achieve the high degree of short-term success claimed by other workers. Until further scientific studies can confirm the value of acupuncture in medical practice, we urge caution in the use of this procedure.