Authors in China have undertaken a systematic review of trials of electro-acupuncture for knee osteoarthritis. They examined 11 randomised controlled trials involving a total of nearly 700 participants. Meta-analysis suggested electro-acupuncture was more effective than medication, and standard acupuncture alone. It reduced pain intensity and improved physical function without any serious adverse events reported. The results implied electro-acupuncture should be given for at least four weeks, for 20-30 minutes per session.
(Electro-Acupuncture is Beneficial for Knee Osteoarthritis: The Evidence from Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. American Journal of Chinese Medicine, 2017.)
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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