Complement Ther Med. 2001 Mar; 9(1): 21-7.

A study of the use of acupuncture in physiotherapy.

Kerr DP, Walsh DM, Baxter GD.

Rehabilitation Sciences Research Group, School of Health Sciences, University of Ulster, Jordanstown, Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland.

OBJECTIVES: This two-phase study was designed to establish the current use of acupuncture within physiotherapy and to determine the opinions of those who received acupuncture therapy. DESIGN: Retrospective study and questionnaire survey. PATIENTS: Patients who attended an outpatient physiotherapy department over a 2-year period (phase 1, retrospective study of clinical records; n = 599). Patients who had received acupuncture treatment from outpatient physiotherapy (phase 2, patient survey; n = 200). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Patient records and questionnaire. RESULTS: The patients who attended for outpatient physiotherapy were categorized into three main groups: low back pain, cervical/thoracic spine problems and soft-tissue injuries of peripheral joints. Acupuncture appeared to be used as a secondary form of treatment for these conditions, where other modalities failed rather than being used for best effect. The response rate to the questionnaire was 78%, of whom 60% stated that they had experienced pain relief following their acupuncture therapy, and 31% were still experiencing pain relief. The majority had achieved sufficient relief to carry out daily activities at home (80%) and at work (57%). Ninety-four per cent of respondents were either 'satisfied' or 'very satisfied' with their treatment. CONCLUSION: Further investigation is required to adequately assess the efficacy of acupuncture as a pain-relieving modality.