Dr. Lee points to a spot on the front of her wrist, about two inches proximal to the crease. It's a useful thing to be able to offer to cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Dr. Lee notes patients hopeful about stopping smoking or weight loss are sometimes disappointed when learning the limitations of acupuncture for substance abuse. Acupuncture alleviates physical craving and helps withdrawal symptoms, but does nothing for psychological cravings. Results have been best documented for narcotic and alcohol detoxification.
Anecdotes are common, but there's no strong evidence for cessation of smoking of weight loss.
Motivation, and some sort of psychological support are crucial for sustained success. But for some patients it's very effective and I'm fascinated every time I see an improvement in peak flow after treatment, and to see it hold over time. With asthma you have the satisfaction of having an easily documented end point to follow. Dr. Lee does not purport acupuncture as a miracle treatment. She does not hesitate to recommend conventional modalities including medication, nerve blocks, and evaluation for surgery.