Do you suffer from chronic pain? Maybe acupuncture is just what the doctor ordered. Millions of people say that acupuncture has alleviated their suffering and boosted their bodies, but others insist that it's more rooted in belief than scientific fact. Is acupuncture really the cure for what ails you, or does it only turn you into a human pincushion?
Doctor/Author: Trick Or Treatment
So is the benefit many patients perceive after having had acupuncture not real? The benefit is real alright, it is however, often not related to the specific therapeutic effects of acupuncture. It is, on the contrary, caused by a range of non-specific effects which we often call placebo-effects. These can be due to expectation, the empathic therapeutic relationship with an acupuncturist, the time spent etc. In a way, this could be seen as justifying the use of acupuncture even for conditions for which it is not effective. But we should remember that even effective treatments come with a “free bonus” of a placebo effect. Therefore we don’t need a placebo-response.
Next Argument
4
1
2
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
4
1
2
0
1
1
1
1
2
0
0
0
1
0
Biweekly updates on new debates and experts
Please check your email to confirm your subscription.
© 2008 Opposing Views, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Opposing Views, Inc. is not responsible for the content posted on this website. Please view full disclaimer under Terms
Expert Verified
