Acupuncture

• Chronic pain
• Back pain (neck pain and lower back pain, in association with radiation and vertigo)
• Osteoarhtritis
• Shoulder pain

Acupuncture is a system of healthcare, which has been practised for more than 3000 years.
It is based on the theory that vital energy, called qi, flows through the body along passways called meridians. Acupuncture points are specific points along these meridians, at which the qi may be assessed. Inserting needles into the acupoints permits the practitioner to restore harmony tot he system by rebalancing the flow of qi.

The positive effect of acupuncture has been proven in various controlled studies.

The WHO (World Health Organisation) recommends Acupuncture in more than 40 conditions.

In March 2014 the JAMA (Journal oft he American Medical Association) published a Summary of Findings in Acupuncture for Chronic Pain.
Scientific trials examined acupuncture in nonspecific muskuloskeletal pain, osteoarthritis, chronic headache and shoulder pain.
Score were especially high in backpain and osteoarthritis.

The world´s largest multicenter study on acupuncture included five University Hospitals in Germany (GERAC Studies, German Acupuncture Trials). This study has proven acupuncture tob e effective.

For example in osteoarthritis oft he knee treatment is focussed on pain management and reducing dysfunction, with nonpharmacological therapies and nonsurgical procedures being the preferred first line course of treatment.
However, results of acupuncture depend – as in other treatments – on the correct indication and must be carried out perfectly.
Acupuncture may reduce pain in mild and moderate osteoarhtritis effectively and long lasting. In severe cases with destruction surgery and joint replacement may be necessary.