Title: The efficacy of acupuncture in the treatment of fibromyalgia syndrome
Abstract: Acupuncture is used in the management of fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) despite the lack of conclusive evidence for its efficacy. This paper reviews the current literature on the effectiveness of acupuncture in FMS. In June 2006, the keywords ‘‘acupuncture’’ and ‘‘fibromyalgia’’ were used in a computerized search of all the resources in the National Electronic Library for Health. The search included only English-language articles that had been published world-wide in peer-reviewed journals after 1999; no grey literature was reviewed. Following the literature search, the author completed validity assessment and data extraction. The studies were not combined for statistical analysis because of variations in methodology. The search identified four papers that met the criteria: two randomized controlled trials, one quasi-experimental study and a pilot study. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme, Standards for Reporting Interventions in Controlled Trials of Acupuncture and Cochrane guidelines were amalgamated and modified to critically appraise the studies. The evidence suggests that acupuncture may have a beneficial effect in FMS; it is not curative, but may be used as an adjuvant therapy in the management of the syndrome. No recommendation can be given regarding the prescription of acupuncture for FMS. Furthermore, treatment can result in temporary minor bruising and soreness, and patients should be informed of this. Further high-quality research is necessary to provide a definitive answer regarding the efficacy of acupuncture in the treatment of FMS.
Publication Year: 2007
Publication Date: 2007-01-01
Language: en
Type: article
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Cited By Count: 5
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