The Article in Brief

Despite the growing popularity of acupuncture in the United States, little is known about acupuncturists’ training or practice. A study of acupuncturists was conducted in 2 states, Massachusetts and Washington. The most common reasons for visiting an acupuncturist were musculoskeletal pain and headaches, although acupuncturists treated a wide range of other conditions. About one half of acupuncture patients were also being treated by a doctor; however, there was little communication between the acupuncturist and doctor. The authors recommend that doctors ask patients about the acupuncture treatment they are receiving.