Acupuncture Moving Toward Globalization: the Status Quo and Prospects
10.1625/jcam.4.17
- VernacularTitle:国際化する鍼灸：その動向と展望 （２） 臨床研究方法論の問題と解決
- Author:
Hitoshi YAMASHITA
;
Hiroshi TSUKAYAMA
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
acupuncture;
globalization;
clinical evaluation;
research methodology;
evidence-based medicine
- From:Japanese Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine
2007;4(1):17-21
- CountryJapan
- Language:Japanese
-
Abstract:
Unresolved problems remain in the clinical research methodology of acupuncture. In particular, the creation of placebo group in randomized controlled trial (RCT) is controversial: sham and / or minimal acupuncture may appear more powerful than placebo treatments in trials. Hence, in the future more emphasis should be placed on pragmatic RCTs, which compare typical treatment vs typical treatment plus acupuncture.
In order to more effectively integrate acupuncture therapy into modern Western medicine, evidence of efficacy, safety and cost-effectiveness should be clearly shown from both rational and clinical points of view. At the same time, we should reassess whether or not the present research methodology appropriately evaluates the essence of acupuncture therapy.
