The evidence for acupuncture as a treatment for rheumatologic conditions

Individuals with rheumatic disorders, particularly those with more severe, chronic conditions, are likely to be frequent users of complementary and al ternative medical therapies. Although large-scale clinical trials have yet to be conducted, there is moderately strong evidence that acupuncture may b e effective for treating both osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia. The utility of acupuncture in treating rheumatoid arthritis has not been demonstrated i n large, randomized controlled trials. Physicians who treat patients with r heumatic conditions should become knowledgeable about the literature on bot h the effectiveness of acupuncture for conditions as well as its potential to cause adverse side effects in particular patient groups.