Acupuncture in medicine : journal of the British Medical Acupuncture Society
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The aim of this study was to evaluate the evidence for the efficacy of acupuncture in the treatment of anxiety and anxiety disorders by systematic review of the relevant research. ⋯ Positive findings are reported for acupuncture in the treatment of generalised anxiety disorder or anxiety neurosis but there is currently insufficient research evidence for firm conclusions to be drawn. No trials of acupuncture for other anxiety disorders were located. There is some limited evidence in favour of auricular acupuncture in perioperative anxiety. Overall, the promising findings indicate that further research is warranted in the form of well designed, adequately powered studies.
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Pain is one of the principal symptoms for which the general public seeks medical attention, and it is frequently treated by GPs. Although acupuncture is mainly practised in the private field, it enjoys growing acceptance in the public system too, which helps bring down the high cost of its use. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the effectiveness of acupuncture and related techniques in treating non-oncological pain during nine years of activity at the Pain Treatment Unit (PTU) within the Andalusian Public Health System (Spain) in the field of primary healthcare. ⋯ Acupuncture seems to be effective in treating musculoskeletal pain, and presents no severe adverse events. With acupuncture treatment, the consumption of analgesic and anti-inflammatory drugs is considerably reduced.