Month: March 2008

Acupuncture and Neck Pain

Acupuncture and neck pain: treatment of a neck problem in Kunming Hospital, China

A seven year international and multi-disciplinary team, including European, American, Canadian and Australasian researchers, has found some complementary therapies such as acupuncture and massage, are better choices for managing most common neck pain, than many current medical practices.

The Bone and Joint Decade 2000-2010 Task Force on Neck Pain, was created to help health professionals and neck pain sufferers, use the best research evidence to prevent, diagnose and manage the condition. Neck pain is widespread, and can be associated with headaches, arm pain, upper back pain and depression. It may arise from injuries such as whiplash, occupational factors, or stress, and for most sufferers, it is persistent and recurrent.

(Spine Journal 2008 and CAM, March 2008.)

Acupuncture for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Acupuncture research from Sweden: acupuncture for polycystic ovary syndrome A Swedish review article has evaluated the use of acupuncture for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), specifically its prevention and reduction. Assessing clinical data from studies in women with PCOS, and rat models of PCOS, the authors suggest acupuncture may benefit PCOS patients by affecting the neuroendocrine system, and exerting long-lasting beneficial effects on the metabolic and endocrine (hormone) systems and on ovulation.

(Acupuncture in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Current Experimental and Clinical Evidence. Journal of Neuroendocrinology, 29 November 2007.)

Daily Exercise significantly lowers Men’s Death Rates

Research from America: fitness and mortality.

A study assessing the link between fitness and mortality, has been completed by the US Veterans Affairs Medical Centre in Washington. Nearly 16 ooo men, the largest number ever known in such a trial, were given a standard treadmill test to assess exercise capacity. Testing was conducted between May 1983 and December 2006, and participants were then followed for an average of 7.5 years and death rates were recorded.

The study found that “highly fit” men had only half the risk of death compared to “low fitness” men. Those who achieved “very highly fit” status, had a 70% lower risk compared to the “low fit” category. The authors say the risk of death is halved, simply by taking a brisk 30 minute walk, 5 to 6 days per week.

(Exercise Capacity & Mortality in Black and White Men. Journal of Circulation, 22 January 2008.)