For Release at 12:30 p.m., Wednesday Nov. 11
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Acupuncture Is Ineffective for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Acupuncture, an ancient East Asian therapy using needles to redirect channels of energy in the body, does not appear to be effective for patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, according to research presented at the American College of Rheumatology National Scientific Meeting Nov. 8-12 in San Diego, Calif.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a debilitating disease that affects 1 percent of the adult population. It causes pain, stiffness and swelling in many joints and, unlike osteoarthritis, often strikes at an early age. Conventional medicinal therapy carries the possibility of side effects, and is sometimes ineffective in relieving pain and swelling.
Researchers in the United Kingdom placed 56 rheumatoid arthritis outpatients in a placebo-controlled study of single point acupuncture. Patients were then evaluated for pain, swollen and tender joints, general health, and several other outcomes. The researchers found no significant differences between those receiving acupuncture treatments and those in the placebo group. No adverse effects were reported.
"Patients with chronic, painful disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis often turn to alternative remedies," said researcher Joel David, FRCP. "Unfortunately, acupuncture works no better than placebo."
Earlier this year, the American College of Rheumatology adopted a position statement that welcomes scientific evaluation of complementary and alternative therapies and that encourages physicians to be able to discuss them knowledgeably with patients.
The American College of Rheumatology is the professional organization for rheumatologists and health professionals who share a dedication to healing, preventing disability and curing arthritis and related rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases. For more information on this meeting, see http://www.rheumatology.org/educ/nm98/nm98.html.
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