Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years, and in the last few decades, scientific studies have started to explain how and why it works so well. Deirdre Mackesy at Robin Hill Clinic, has been treating patients with acupuncture for over 28 years, we understand the importance of offering treatments backed by research. Here, we’ll dive into some key studies that show acupuncture’s efficacy.
Major Study on Acupuncture’s Efficacy
One of the most comprehensive studies was led by the **Acupuncture Trialists’ Collaboration**, which involved a **meta-analysis of data from 39 clinical trials**. In this study, more than **20,000 patients** were treated for various types of chronic pain, including osteoarthritis, back pain, neck pain, and headaches. The study included randomized controlled trials (RCTs), which are considered the gold standard in medical research.
Patients were either treated with acupuncture, no treatment, or a “sham” acupuncture treatment (where needles were inserted in non-acupuncture points). The results were clear: acupuncture significantly reduced pain compared to both no treatment and sham treatments. Importantly, the study found that acupuncture’s effects persisted for **at least 12 months**, proving it offers long-term relief.
The study concluded that acupuncture’s benefits couldn’t be explained by the placebo effect alone. This means that the insertion of needles at specific acupuncture points triggers real, biological responses in the body, such as the release of endorphins (natural painkillers) and improved blood circulation.
https://www.aafp.org/news/health-of-the-public/20180521acupuncture.html
https://www.uhhospitals.org/blog/articles/2020/01/the-evidence-for-acupuncture
Harvard Study on Acupuncture and Inflammation
In addition to pain relief, research at **Harvard Medical School** uncovered the mechanisms behind acupuncture’s ability to reduce inflammation. The study, conducted on mice and published in the journal *Nature*, revealed that acupuncture activates specific neurons in the body that are crucial for regulating inflammation.
These neurons, located in the hindlimbs, when stimulated by acupuncture, trigger the body’s vagal-adrenal axis, a pathway that reduces inflammation and pain. The researchers found that this effect was region-specific—only acupuncture in certain areas of the body had this powerful anti-inflammatory effect. The findings suggest that acupuncture can be particularly useful for inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis
What These Findings Mean for You
These studies provide solid evidence that acupuncture is more than just a placebo—it’s a scientifically validated treatment that can help reduce chronic pain and inflammation. Whether you’re dealing with long-term back pain, osteoarthritis, or headaches, acupuncture offers a natural and effective way to manage your symptoms.
The Benefits of Acupuncture at Robin Hill Clinic
Here at Robin Hill Clinic, we’ve been practising acupuncture for nearly three decades, witnessing its profound effects on our patients. Whether you’re struggling with chronic back pain, headaches, or arthritis, our tailored acupuncture sessions are designed to meet your specific needs. We focus on relieving pain, improving circulation, and enhancing your overall well-being.
We use traditional Chinese techniques and modern approaches like electro-acupuncture to ensure our patients receive the best care possible. We’ve seen first hand how effective acupuncture can be—not only for pain management but also for stress relief, improved sleep, and overall health enhancement.
Ready to Experience the Benefits of Acupuncture?
If you’re curious about trying acupuncture, we’d love to help. At Robin Hill Clinic, we offer personalized sessions designed to target your specific health concerns. Book your appointment today by calling us at +353-(0)21-4812222 or emailing us at info@robinhillclinic.com. Let us help you on your journey to better health!