The practice of acupuncture in Saudi Arabia
- Author:
Al-Rukban MO
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
acupuncture;
complementary medicine;
Saudi Arabia
- MeSH:
Acupuncture
- From:Journal of University of Malaya Medical Centre
2010;13(2):93-101
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Acupuncture is one of the oldest and most commonly used complementary medical procedures
in the World. Although it is not free from side effects, its use is becoming increasingly popular.
The aims of this study were to describe the demographic characteristics of acupuncture users
in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and their knowledge, attitude and experience regarding acupuncture,
as well as to determine the common complaints for which patients seek help from acupuncture
centers. A cross sectional study, which targeted patients who attended acupuncture centers in
Riyadh city during the study’s period. Most of the study participants were 21-40 years of age and
about two third of them were males. The most common complaints that lead to acupuncture visits
were joint pain (22.4%) and headache (18.6%). Dissatisfaction with medical treatment and side
effects of medications were the major reasons, which led patients to seek cure from acupuncture
therapy. About 65% of the patients heard of acupuncture from their families and friends. Pain
sensation from needle puncture was the most noticed side effect (15.8%). Twenty-two patients
completed treatment during the study period and out of those, twenty one patients claimed that
they were successfully treated. The practice of acupuncture in Saudi Arabia is not well established.
Pain seems to be the most common symptom that guides patients to attend acupuncture centers.
There is need for education related to the appropriate use of acupuncture in Saudi Arabia.
(JUMMEC 2010; 13(2): 93-101)
- Full text:P020160120423572784323.pdf
