A systematic review by UK authors suggests that acupuncture represents a cost-effective and drug-free option for the treatment of lower back pain. Analysis of four studies showed that although acupuncture was associated with slightly increased costs, incremental cost-effectiveness ratios remained sufficiently low, and below the frequently used threshold value of £20 000 per quality-adjusted life year.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has selected this review for inclusion in NICE Evidence Search because it meets the definition of a reliable systematic review for this service.
(Cost-Effectiveness of Non-Invasive and Non-Pharmacological Interventions for Low Back Pain: a Systematic Literature Review. Applied Health Economics and Health Policy, 22 August 2016.)
Author: Robin Costello
I offer traditional Chinese acupuncture in Exeter, from a tranquil clinic a mile from the city centre, and next to the University of Exeter. I graduated originally from the London School of Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine’s 3 year full time Acupuncture Diploma (DipAc) course. I am on the practitioners register of the British Acupuncture Council (MBAcC), a regulatory and professional body with an entry standard of a full three year undergraduate degree level training.
I have worked in a hospital in south west China, deepening my knowledge and using acupuncture and Chinese massage (tuina) as the treatment of choice in its country of origin. I have taught Chinese medicine in colleges, the NHS and at university level. I also practise Qi Gong, and Chinese dietary therapy, that is the medicinal use of ordinary foods, chosen to help achieve particular therapeutic effects in different individuals.
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