Acupuncture studies using the standard “Evidence Based Medicine” are difficult to conduct as there are limitation to how an effective placebo can be carried out. Even studies that use so called “sham” acupuncture may not necessary be a placebo as the sham can have physiological effects beyond just the mind. I know from a clinical perspective that acupuncture works, but showing it within the confines of the current research model is difficult. Anyone that says acupuncture is only a placebo effect I suggest they talk to someone that brought their animal (dog, cat, horse) to someone that does animal acupuncture. The results are often outstanding so if it is a placebo effect these creatures are experiencing then they are a lot smarter than we think.
An interesting study was just released that looked at acupuncture’s efficacy for preventing migraines. They used 2 groups, each had 70 participants: 1) Acupuncture plus a placebo pill. 2) “Sham” acupuncture plus the calcium channel blocking medication flunarizine used to prevent migraines. The study lasted 16 weeks. The patients in the acupuncture group (#1) had significantly better responder rates and fewer migraine days compared with the control group (#2) which is a testimonial to acupuncture since the control group was taking medication to prevent migraines as well as receiving “sham” acupuncture.
Yours In Health,
George Mandler
Licensed Acupuncturist, Dietitian and Herbalist.