Acupuncture and physiotherapy: a global perspective

Abstract

Physical therapists from many countries are including acupuncture in their treatment programmes. With their knowledge of anatomy and manual skills, physiotherapists are particularly suited to use acupuncture. This paper gives an international overview on the use of acupuncture by physiotherapists and traces its development in the UK. While the scientific basis for acupuncture is gradually being demonstrated, much further research is needed. The design of acupuncture trials is difficult. This is illustrated in the recent paper on acupuncture pain relief by Jackson in this journal (Jackson, Phys Ther Rev 1997; 2: 13–18) and the response to this by Barlas (Phys Ther Rev 1997; 2: 239–40). Many physiotherapists, as well as using acupuncture for pain relief, are also using acupuncture for other effects such as relief of stress or reduction of bronchospasm in asthma. Some examples of the cost benefits of acupuncture as part of treatment programmes are given. The paper provides an overview of the status and some of the potential benefits of acupuncture in physiotherapy.