Acupuncture and the Emerging Evidence Base: Contrived Controversy and Rational Debate
Journal: Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies (Vol.5, No. 4)Publication Date: 2012-08-31
Authors : Hugh MacPherson; Richard Hammerschlag;
Page : 141-147
Keywords : acupuncture; effectiveness; efficacy; physiology; safety;
Abstract
The rising incidence of chronic disease and stress-related illness in the West, coupled with an expanding awareness of the unwanted side effects of pharmaceutical treatment, has led to an increased utilization of acupuncture as a contemporary health care option. This increase in utilization, in turn, has paralleled a response to the call for evidence, with the result that acupuncture is now supported by a broad range of surveys of safety, clinical trials and basic science studies of physiologic action. The combined impact of these studies is linked to a growing acceptance of this traditional medical practice. The present review takes a wide-angle look at these three major areas of acupuncture research, namely: safety and the risks of serious adverse events; clinical efficacy and effectiveness; and physiologic action. We identify advances in knowledge and present a point counterpoint approach to controversial issues, with the aim of offering clarification if not a measure of resolution.
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