Is accupuncture a waste of money?

ripplyuk

I’ve started having chronic migraines. I also clench my teeth at night and have some type of TMJ dysfunction (mouth guard made it worse). My doctor referred me for physiotherapy but that hasn’t helped at all and now the physiotherapist has suggested trying accupuncture. I’m sceptical about this but also desperate for anything that would help, even a little.

This would not be on the NHS so I would have to pay. Has anyone tried it? Is it worth paying for or is it quackery?

unforeseen

Is acupuncture a waste of money?


I think its a bit of a stab in the dark

keithdc

ripplyuk wrote: »

I’ve started having chronic migraines. I also clench my teeth at night and have some type of TMJ dysfunction (mouth guard made it worse). My doctor referred me for physiotherapy but that hasn’t helped at all and now the physiotherapist has suggested trying accupuncture. I’m sceptical about this but also desperate for anything that would help, even a little.

This would not be on the NHS so I would have to pay. Has anyone tried it? Is it worth paying for or is it quackery?

Quackery!

If it was clinically and cost-effective, the NHS would pay.

theoretica

The placebo effect is very powerful, and I am not convinced the NHS harness it well. But if you are sceptical about acupuncture it might not be the best way of harnessing the placebo effect.

On the other hand I believe that there is no more evidence for negative side effects (ok cost and your time) than positive results.

carolbee

Ive had it three times on the NHS, for different things, and once privately. Amazing. Made a huge difference to me for a frozen shoulder

gsymoo

I've had it once for severe shoulder pain (muscular). I didnt think it would work so was shocked by how much of a difference it made. Wouldn't hesitate in getting it again... but, that wasn't for migraines so not sure. Hope you find something that helps x

jackieblack

My Dad, who was hugely sceptical, was driven by desparation to try acupuncture when he was in a lot of pain waiting for his hips to be replaced.
He was astonished at how effective he found it.

I think the skill of the practitioner plays a massive part in how effective people find it.

beanielou

keithdc wrote: »

Quackery!

If it was clinically and cost-effective, the NHS would pay.

You can get it own the NHS.

I personally find it makes an amazing difference.

jenniewb

keithdc wrote: »

Quackery!

If it was clinically and cost-effective, the NHS would pay.

AFAIK The NHS do offer acupuncture. I had it once, but sadly the nurse giving the treatment didn't seem to be aware how important it was to keep the regular appointments- I was advised to have one every 7-10 days but she was either always booked up for weeks at a time or she went on holiday. 4 sessions happened over 6 months...and funnily enough I noticed no difference but I got the feeling it could have helped (chronic back pain) if they'd stuck to the treatment guidelines.

donnac2558

A friend had a course on the NHS for her spin problems. She was amazed at how well it worked for the pain, but when the course prescribed ended she was told if she wished to continue it would have to go private as the waiting list was so long.

ripplyuk

Thank you for the replies. I should have worded my OP better. The NHS do offer it but my GP has told me they have an 18mth waiting list in my area. I can’t wait that long and the alternative treatment they have offered is an anti-seizure drug with some very nasty side effects, along with diazepam, which I’m scared I’ll end up addicted to.

I’m still sceptical but I think the accupuncture is worth a go. I don’t know how much of it I’ll be able to afford but these problems are bad enough that I’ll get into debt if necessary, to get any relief.