Effects of acupuncture on cardiac arrhythmias

  Researchers from the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis have reviewed the literature.

There’s good news and a challenge to future researchers.

First, the details.

• Online databases were searched for articles on the effectiveness of acupuncture for cardiac arrhythmias.
• 8 studies were reviewed.

And, the results.

• 87% to 100% of patients converted to normal sinus rhythm after acupuncture.

The bottom line?
The authors concluded, “Acupuncture seems to be effective in treating several cardiac arrhythmias.”

Here’s the challenge: “For acupuncture to become a more viable intervention in Western medicine, more rigorous studies are needed with standardized treatment protocols, diverse patient populations, and long-term follow-up.”

2/13/09 18:12 JR