A documented form of treatment for arthritis is acupuncture. A recent double blind study noted that acupuncture for arthritis of the knee joint, when added to standard care, reduced pain by 40% and increased joint mobility by 40%. This United States National Institute of Health study concluded that acupuncture is an effective natural arthritis treatment when compared to no acupuncture and placebo acupuncture.

Studies in the past have not definitively addressed the question of how effective acupuncture is in treating arthritis. In many cases, the studies have involved only a small number of patients or relatively few sessions. Dr. Madeline Devey views this new study as being "well conducted" and "extremely encouraging," and she sees it as showing a "positive effect."

Acupuncture, a natural arthritis treatment, should be considered not a cure, but a way of managing pain. It does nothing to stop deterioration of joints. Acupuncture had its origin many centuries ago in China. By inserting tiny needles, the practitioner can refocus and guide the Qi, or natural energy of the body.

Acupuncture for arthritis is often most effective for patients who have not had success with conventional medical treatments. One previous study, tried to explain the successes of acupunctures at pain reduction by studying its effect on a patients' electromagnetic fields, while another study wrote it off as a placebo effect. However the most recent study is by far the best conducted and conclusive.

Acupuncture takes a philosophical approach to healing, by combining treatment on the mental as well as the physical level. Acupuncture in Bristol is quite reputable, with traditional practitioners in over 343 locations.

While deciding on acupuncture providers in Bristol one is advised to locate a professional who belongs to the British Acupuncture Council. Those who belong to this society are bound by a professional oath. Acupuncture is risky and it most often succeeds when provided by a seasoned professional. Apprentice providers should spend plenty of time working with a mentor. However, for those fortunate enough to live in Bristol, it is no exagerration to say that acupuncture in this area is second-to-none in the western world.