There is a point to Acupuncture Week

Media Release

27 February 2014

There is a point to Acupuncture Week

“People with some forms of arthritis may like to consider using acupuncture to complement their medical treatment,” Arthritis New Zealand Chief Executive said today in the lead up to Acupuncture Awareness Week.

Acupuncture Awareness Week (3 - 10 March) aims to better inform people about the ancient practice of traditional acupuncture. Acupuncture originated from an ancient system of treatment, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and is currently one of the most widely used forms of complementary medicine.

Complementary medicine includes treatments and products that are not traditionally used in conventional medicine. But the gap between complementary and conventional medicines is somewhat blurred these days. Many complementary treatments are based on anatomy and physiology, while modern medicine is utilising a more holistic approach, and has adopted some therapies that originated in complementary medicine.

There is now clear scientific evidence that acupuncture can be beneficial if you have osteoarthritis (OA) in your knees, fibromyalgia, or low back pain. Although the effects may not be long term, and further treatments may be required.

“Acupuncture may well work for you. However, before embarking on any complementary course of treatment, including acupuncture, it is vital that you first consult with your GP or medical specialist,” concluded Ms Kirby

Arthritis New Zealand is the national organisation focussed on raising awareness of the more than 140 different forms of arthritis, advocating for those with the condition, and providing advice and support.

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