Teaching self-acupuncture survey report.

Area of Science:

• Integrative Medicine
• Traditional Chinese Medicine
• Acupuncture Research

Background:

• Self-acupuncture (SA) has been taught in the UK since 1977.
• Research on SA is limited, with no established teaching guidelines.
• SA is a patient-centered approach to managing various health conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To gather data on acupuncturists' experiences teaching SA.
• To develop evidence-based guidelines for SA teaching and delivery.
• To assess the safety and acceptability of SA in clinical practice.

Main Methods:

• An online survey was distributed to acupuncturists.
• Descriptive statistics were used to analyze survey data.
• Findings were translated into practical SA teaching guidelines.

Main Results:

• 138 acupuncturists completed the survey; 19% had taught SA.
• Commonly treated conditions include pain, nausea, anxiety, and breathlessness.
• No adverse effects were reported by patients receiving SA instruction.

Conclusions:

• Acupuncturists consider SA a safe and acceptable self-care option.
• The study provides valuable data for guiding SA practice.
• Established guidelines can enhance the effective and safe delivery of SA.