The Southern Medical Journal (SMJ) is the official, peer-reviewed journal of the Southern Medical Association. It has a multidisciplinary and inter-professional focus that covers a broad range of topics relevant to physicians and other healthcare specialists.

SMJ // Article

Review Article

Acupuncture: A Clinical Review

Authors: Victor S. Sierpina, MD, Moshe A. Frenkel, MD

Abstract

This article summarizes the research base, probable mechanism of actions, and clinical applications of acupuncture. It offers the clinician a deeper understanding of appropriate conditions for which acupuncture may be useful, outlines how to integrate acupuncture into a clinical practice, and describes referral and training issues.


Key Points


* Basic theories of acupuncture from both traditional and scientific perspectives are reviewed.


* The reader is provided with information about indications for acupuncture.


* The acupuncture encounter is described.


* Safety and efficacy data on acupuncture are reviewed.


* An algorithm for the referral process to acupuncture is provided.

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