Study Demonstrates Acupuncture's Efficacy with Coma Patients

Though not routinely seen in American acupuncture clinics, working with unconscious patients, including those in a coma, is something that practitioners are taught in school and familiar with. I post the study below largely because we do frequently see brain injury, strokes and neurologic problems which respond similarly well.

A recent study, which can be read here, found that,

Acupuncture improves the time it takes to regain consciousness from a coma after a severe brain injury.

Study Indicates Effectiveness of Acupuncture for MS

My practice treats many neurological and autoimmune issues. One of the most common concerns that we see are patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), which generally responds well to treatment. Over the next several months I intend to fill this blog entry with a sampling of the studies which have been done which underscore the utility of this modality in helping people with MS live better, more functional and increasingly comfortable lives.

Research

A 2012 study found that acupuncture significantly increased functioning in people with MS. The study specifically looked at pain, depression, visual problems, sleep, appetite, incontinence, constipation and leg spasms. A synopsis of the study can be read here. The study concluded that, 

acupuncture “significantly improves the quality of life” for multiple sclerosis patients.