The efficacy of acupuncture for arthritis has been proven clinically in a US NIH study. Used in conjunction with conventional care, it tends to reduce discomfort by nearly 50% and increase ability to walk by nearly 50% when the patella is affected. The clinical trial was a double-blind trial which provided no treatment for part of the sample, ineffective acupunture for another part, and acupuncture as a natural arthritis treatment for the remainder.

In previous studies, the usefulness of acupuncture for alleviating arthritis pain has been inconclusive. The conclusions of some studies have been limited by an insufficient sample size of sessions or patients. In contrast, Dr. Madeline Devey finds the new study as very "well conducted", with "extremely encouraging" results.

Acupuncture relieves pain but it does not cure the disease. The joint deterioration does continue. Acupuncture began in China several thousand years ago. The insertion of thin needles allows the refocusing and redirection of the body's natural energy or Qi. Thus it is a natural arthritis treatment.

Some patients with arthritis do not get relief from typical medical treatment. In these cases, acupuncture does seem to be effective, although the exact mechanism of relief is not known. Some physiological studies are focused on possible effects of acupuncture on the electromagnetic fields of the body. The placebo effect has also been viewed as a reason for pain relief. However, the current study is better designed than these other sugar-pill projects.

Acupuncture takes a philosophical approach to healing, by combining treatment on the mental as well as the physical level. Acupuncture in Bristol is quite reputable, with traditional practitioners in over 343 locations.

When choosing a practioneers of acupuncture in Bristol it is wise to find someone who is a member of the British Acupuncture Council. The members of this organization are subject to a professional code of practice. Acupuncture carries risk and it is most likely to give positive results in the hands of someone experienced. Students should spend a significant amount of time working under supervision However, for those lucky enough to live in Bristol it is not too much to say that acupuncture in Bristol is among the best available in the western world.