Resources
If you’re looking for more information about acupuncture then check out these links:
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British Acupuncture Council (BAcC)
As a member of the BAcC, I follow their high standards of practice. Their website is a great resource for learning about the benefits of acupuncture and what to expect from treatment.
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NHS Acupuncture Overview
The NHS provides helpful information about acupuncture, including what it’s used for and its effectiveness.
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Evidence-Based Acupuncture (EBA)
A reliable source for scientific studies and articles that back up the benefits of acupuncture for various conditions.
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Acupuncture Fertility Network
A supportive community for acupuncturists specialising in fertility. This network raises awareness about the benefits of fertility acupuncture, supports professional development, and connects practitioners. As a member, I’m proud to be part of this initiative to enhance patient care in fertility treatments.
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British Medical Acupuncture Society
As a member of BMAS, I integrate acupuncture with a medical approach. Their site offers reliable information about acupuncture in clinical practice and its role in managing various health conditions.
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Northern College of Acupuncture (NCA)
The NCA is a leading institution for acupuncture training in the UK. The college offers high-quality education and research opportunities in Traditional Chinese Medicine, ensuring excellence in practice. I’m proud to have trained at this institution, which has shaped my professional approach to patient care.
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National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) is a government-linked organisation that provides evidence-based guidance to support the NHS and improve health and social care practices across the UK.
In 2021, NICE updated its guidelines to recommend acupuncture as a treatment option for chronic primary pain, including conditions like fibromyalgia and certain types of back pain without a clear underlying cause. This marked a significant shift towards non-pharmacological interventions in pain management. Notably, NICE advised against prescribing paracetamol, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), benzodiazepines, and opioids for chronic primary pain, citing limited evidence for their effectiveness and potential risks, such as addiction.
The updated guidelines advocate for treatments like supervised exercise programmes, psychological therapies (e.g., cognitive behavioural therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy), and acupuncture, reflecting a more holistic and patient-centred approach. This pivotal change in chronic pain management promotes safer and more effective non-drug therapies.
For more information, the NICE website provides valuable guidelines and research on acupuncture’s effectiveness for managing chronic pain, migraines, and tension headaches, offering insights into its medical applications.