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Acupuncture: a clinical review
Victor S Sierpina1, Moshe A Frenkel
1Family Medicine Department, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX 77555, USA. vssierpi@utmb.edu
Southern Medical Journal
|April 9, 2005
Summary
This article reviews acupuncture research, mechanisms, and clinical uses. It guides clinicians on integrating acupuncture for various conditions and addresses referral and training needs.
Area of Science:
- Integrative Medicine
- Complementary Therapies
- Evidence-Based Practice
Background:
- Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique involving needle insertion.
- Growing interest in non-pharmacological treatment options necessitates understanding acupuncture's role.
- Existing research provides a foundation for its clinical application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the scientific evidence supporting acupuncture.
- To elucidate the proposed mechanisms of action for acupuncture.
- To provide guidance on the clinical integration of acupuncture.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of acupuncture research.
- Analysis of proposed physiological mechanisms.
- Discussion of clinical best practices and integration strategies.
Main Results:
- Comprehensive overview of the research base for acupuncture.
- Explanation of probable mechanisms, including neuromodulation and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Identification of clinical applications and conditions where acupuncture is beneficial.
Conclusions:
- Acupuncture has a developing research base supporting its use in various clinical scenarios.
- Understanding mechanisms and applications aids clinicians in effective integration.
- Proper training and referral pathways are crucial for safe and effective acupuncture practice.