Placebo needles in acupuncture research

Journal/Book: Rehab in Review Vol. 6 Nr.10 1998 / Phys Rehab Kur Med 9 (1999) S. M30-M31. 1998 / 1999;

Abstract: Streitberger K et al.: Introducing a Placebo Needle into Acupuncture Research. The Lancet 352 (1998 August 1) 364-365 When designing acupuncture studies acupuncturists have relied on the method of sham-acupuncture which involves needling non-indicated accupoints to serve as controls. However this method continues to be criticized for its potential to produce physiologic effects in it self. This study attempted to develop a placebo needle appropriate for studies of the treatment effects of acupuncture. A total of 60 young healthy subjects none of whom had acupuncture experience were randomized in a crossover design study. The placebo needle had a blunt tip producing a pricking sensation to simulate puncture of the skin without actual penetration. For subjects receiving real acupuncture the needle was inserted 0.5 cm through the skin. After two minutes all subjects were asked if they felt the needle penetrate the skin if penetration was painful as rated by a visual analog scale (VAS) or if they felt a dull pain sensation. Subjects were then tested with the alternate method at one hour to one week later. Of the 60 subjects 54 felt the penetration of the skin with the acupuncture needle whereas 47 felt the same sensation with the placebo needle. Thirty-four subjects described a dull pain sensation with the acupuncture needle whereas 13 described a dull pain sensation with placebo. Using VAS scores the acupuncture needle was slightly more painful than the placebo needle. This difference was not significant. Conclusion: This randomized prospective crossover study suggests that a placebo needle might be useful as a control in studies assessing the treatment effects of acupuncture. ___MH

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