The National Council Against Health Fraud believes that after more than twenty years in the court of scientific opinion, acupuncture has not been demonstrated effective for any condition. Most reports claiming positive and statistically significant results for acupuncture are flawed by biased patient selection, poor controls, lack of blinding, or insufficient numbers. There are no physiologic or counter-irritant and distracting effects. For these reasons, acupuncture should not be offered without full informed consent, reminding patients that acupuncture is experimental, has not been proven more effective than a placebo, and has some risk of complications. Some states do not regulate such claims.
Acupuncture cures nothing.
It may relieve symptoms with the frequency of a placebo. It may be harmful. Consumers wishing to try acupuncture should discuss their situation with a knowledgeable physician who has no commercial interest.