A review of 19 randomised controlled trials covering over 3600 patients, shows acupuncture is more effective for migraine prevention than propranolol. The meta-analysis by authors at Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, looked at trials in which acupuncture or propranolol was compared to sham acupuncture, placebo, waiting list control, or usual care. The analysis showed acupuncture had a significant advantage over the drug in reducing migraine frequency over a four week period. Acupuncture was also associated with fewer adverse events.
(Acupuncture versus propranolol in migraine prophylaxis: an indirect treatment comparison meta-analysis. Journal of Neurology, 21 August 2019.)
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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