Research offers support for alternative therapies
The medical community still questions alternative therapies, but proponents point to key scientific studies that support their effectiveness. Here are two of the most widely cited studies:
• One study involved 29 patients with severe osteoarthritis of the knees. Surgery was planned for all the patients, but the study randomized them to receive either six acupuncture treatments plus physical therapy or just physical therapy alone. Of the 14 patients receiving acupuncture, seven were able to cancel their surgery. The 15 receiving physical therapy alone went on to surgery. The estimated savings was $9,000 for each patient who canceled surgery.1
• In another study, 56 workers’ comp patients were randomized to receive physical and occupational therapy alone or in combination with acupuncture. Of the 29 undergoing acupuncture along with the therapy, 62% achieved a full return to work and 34% went back to permanent modified duty. Of those who did not receive acupuncture, 15% achieved a full return to work and 52% went back on permanent modified duty.2
Another study, however, cautions physicians that alternative therapies are not always free of risk to the patient. British researchers surveyed 1,521 family physicians about the incidence of adverse effects associated with alternative therapies, and 686 physicians replied.3 Thirty-seven percent reported that they had treated a patient who had a problem related to alternative therapy. There were 291 reports of adverse events classified as nonserious, but 78 physicians submitted 96 reports of adverse events classified as serious, meaning they were potentially life-threatening, or likely to cause disability or severe morbidity.
The researchers determined that spinal manipulation was the most common cause of serious adverse events. The adverse events also were associated with herbal therapies, acupuncture, and various diets.
References
1. Christen BV. Acupuncture treatment of severe knee osteoarthritis: A long-term study. Acta Anesthesiol Scand 1992; 36:519-525.
2. Gum CC. Dry needling of muscle motor points for chronic low back pain. Spine 1980; 5:279-291.
3. Abbott N. Adverse events and complementary medicines. International J Risk and Safety in Med 1998; 11: 99-106.
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