Acupuncture has been widely researched for its success in treating both chronic and acute pain. For example, regarding acute pain, a systematic review of 13 trials found that acupuncture was more effective than both sham needling and injection with painkillers. While another study (2016) with over 89,000, found that 93% of patients said that their acupuncturist had been successful in treating their musculoskeletal pain.*3

A 2016 systematic review concluded that ‘the effects from acupuncture for treating anxiety have been shown to be significant as compared to conventional treatments.’ Additional studies have found that acupuncture had a notable effect on reducing anxiety and depression when compared to conventional treatment involving pharmacological approaches and psychotherapy, with over twice the reduction in symptoms.*1

According to Australian DVA review (2010) acupuncture was rated as ‘effective’. Similarly, two systematic reviews confirmed that acupuncture is superior to sham acupuncture and seems to be at least as effective as conventional preventative. Additionally, acupuncture is described as safe, long-lasting, and cost effective.*2

A systematic review of 32 randomised controlled trials for acupuncture for the treatment of chronic non-specific low back pain, acupuncture was shown to be superior to sham acupuncture in pain reduction while additionally showing improved function immediately after treatment.*2

Systematic reviews have shown that there is high-quality evidence to deem acupuncture as effective, safe, and cost-effective for the treatment of allergic rhinitis.*2

In a network meta-analysis that compared 22 interventions across 152 studies, acupuncture was shown to be equal to balneotherapy and superior to sham acupuncture, muscle-strengthening exercise, Tai Chi, weight loss, standard care, and aerobic exercise (in ranked order).*2

A 2009 review (Alfhaily and Ewies) found that the majority of studies on acupuncture for hot flashes and night sweats concluded a 50% reductions in hot flashes (retained effects for 6 months). Berezza et al. (2015) found acupuncture for sleep disorders in post-menopausal women had a 75% improvement in sleep complaints. Plus more

A 2015 systematic review suggested that the use of acupuncture can be more effective at relieving sciatica when compared with NSAID (ibuprofen, meloxicam, and diclofenac) treatment. In cases of patients already taking medications for leg pain/lumbago relief, acupuncture in conjunction with this may enhance the effect of medications. *4

A 2004 randomised controlled study found that in 226 cases of breech baby presentations, in which 114 were simply observed while 112 presentations were provided acupuncture and moxibustion, those who were provided active treatment had a statistically significant lower rate of cesarean sections than those who did not receive treatment (52.3% vs. 66.7%, p = 0.03). *5