More people are seeking out traditional forms of medicine, from acupuncture to herbal medicines. The WHO is working to develop standards to make these healing practices implementable on a wide scale.
For some, too much medication might make migraine worse.
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Dry needling and Western acupuncture don’t incorporate traditional chinese medicine philosophies – but may be helpful for pain and releasing muscle tension.
New international research shows one in four physiotherapists provide treatments that aren’t based on evidence. These treatments aren’t likely to cause harm, but they might waste patients’ time.
Most people with low back pain aren’t getting the most effective treatment.
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A recent series on low back pain by the global medical journal The Lancet shows doctors often overlook recommended treatments, such as advice to stay active and to exercise.
Acupuncture might alleviate stress for women undertaking IVF.
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A new study has countered old reports acupuncture can improve your chances of having a baby when going through IVF.
Doctors with special training in acupuncture and practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine worked together in emergency departments.
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Some emergency doctors are already using acupuncture to relieve patients’ pain. Now a new study shows when it works, when it doesn’t and how emergency departments of the future might use it.
Studies show Chinese women view advanced age as a positive time of wisdom and maturity.
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Three out of four women going through menopause suffer hot flushes, and suffer they do. But research shows the way society views ageing and menopause can reduce the severity of symptoms.
All dentists should be practising evidence-based dentistry for the sake of their patients.
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Holistic dentistry claims to promote overall wellness rather than simply treating disease. But the lack of evidence for the alternative therapies underpinning it are cause for concern.
The idea of Chi (life force) flowing through meridians has an allegorical quality and the appeal of an ancient provenance.
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A recent, rather flattering, article on acupuncture on this website holds a mirror to a broader problem in the world of acupuncture research. A problem that goes to the heart of the most fundamental scientific…
Modern research techniques are looking for evidence of efficacy for this 2,500-year-old practice.
Peter Fasano
PANACEA OR PLACEBO – A weekly series assessing the evidence behind complementary and alternative medicines. Acupuncture has been practiced in China for over 2,500 years. During the reign of Emperor Huang…
Acupuncture is based on the belief that a vital force (Ch’i) is transmitted along meridians.
Megan Mallen
Acupuncture is popular and no doubt lucrative for its practitioners. The fact that it doesn’t work seems to be of little relevance, and certainly has not curbed enthusiasm for the application of what is…
Linking research and teaching, universities are best placed to teach evidence-based CAM.
Tulane Publications
Most readers would know of the current debate about universities teaching complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). A core question not being addressed in this debate is what other institution is better…