Complementary therapies for arthritis and low back pain
The national charity Arthritis Research UK, has published a report on physical therapies for low back pain, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia. The most effective therapies were found to include: • Acupuncture for osteoarthritis, low back pain and fibromyalgia • Massage for fibromyalgia and low back pain. To access the Arthritis Research UK report, click here. To […]
Acupuncture shown to benefit irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
In a recent clinical trial conducted in the York area, acupuncture for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) was shown to provide an additional benefit over usual care alone. The magnitude of the effect was sustained over the longer term. Some of the acupuncture provided in the study took place at the York Clinic, and was led by acupuncturist and […]
Acupuncture found to be effective for fatigue in patients with breast cancer
Acupuncture is effective in treating breast cancer patients for fatigue. This has been shown for the first time in a clinical trial, researchers say. “Abstract PURPOSE We aimed to assess the effectiveness of acupuncture for cancer-related fatigue (CRF) in patients with breast cancer. PATIENTS AND METHODS We conducted a pragmatic, randomized controlled trial comparing acupuncture […]
NICE says use acupuncture, not painkillers for headaches
We like this article from the BBC News website today, ………. Up to a million people in the UK have “completely preventable” severe headaches caused by taking too many painkillers, doctors have said. They said some were trapped in a “vicious cycle” of taking pain relief, which then caused even more headaches. The warning came […]
Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine for women with chronic pelvic pain: new advice from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG)
It is estimated that one in six women are affected by chronic pelvic pain (CPP) which can be defined as intermittent or constant pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis for over six months and many will use some form of complementary medicine to help their symptoms. Experts from the RGOC’s Scientific Advisory Committee say […]
How does acupuncture work?
It’s a fair question, and one I get asked all the time. I wish there was an easy answer, and after 20 years in practice, I feel I should have come up with one by now! The trouble is, it’s complicated. If I start on a full explanation, I see people’s eyes glaze over, doubtless […]
Acupuncture is effective for chronic pain
There has been a lot of research into acupuncture for chronic pain, but many trials have been of poor quality. Some trials are quite small or the methodology may be of a low standard. The best trials are often ones with the most patients in them, as high numbers of participants mean that its easier […]
Acupuncture good for pregnant women
The award-winning Maternity Acupuncture service in Plymouth, set up by Sarah Budd, has carried out research about the benefits of the treatments they provide to pregnant women through the NHS. The service has been established for over 23 years and has treated over 6000 women. They were joint winners of the Prince of Wales’ Foundation […]
Is it time to change the way you think?
HOW are you getting on with those New Year resolutions? by Richard Catton (Originally appeared in the York Evening Press during January). As January drags on and the Christmas decorations go back in the loft, it’s no surprise that those vows to cut down on the wine or chocolate and get some exercise may now […]
Watch Vinnie Jones Hard and Fast video for the British Heart Foundation
This video from the British Heart Foundation shows Vinnie Jones (of Lock Stock and Barrel fame) demonstrating the new hands-free CPR. Learn how to save a life to the beat of Stayin Alive. Its easy when you know how. Click.