Acupuncture is effective in treating recurrent bladder infections
Researchers in Norway carried out a trial to investigate the benefits of acupuncture in treating a group of 94 women, all of whom had experienced at least 3 urinary tract infections during the previous 12 months. 67 of the women received acupuncture twice a week for 4 weeks. 73% of the women treated with acupuncture remained free of infection during the 6 months ater treatment, compared to only 52% of those who did not receive acupunture. The amount of residual urine left in the bladder after urination – a factor that can contribute to recurrent urinary infections – was also halved in those receiving acupunture.
“American Journal of Public Health” 2002;92:1609-1611
Acupuncture has been found to be effective in treating overactive bladder
11 patients with overactive bladders were treated with acupuncture. 9 patients complained of urge incontinence and patients of urgency. Before acupuncture, uninhibited contraction was observed in all patients. After an average of 7 sessions, urge incontinence was controlled completely in 5 and partially in 2 of the 9 patients. In 2 patients who complained of urgency, the problem was completely cured. Uninhibited contraction disappeared in 6 patients after treatment. Acupuncture also resulted in a significant increase of maximum bladder capacity and bladder compliance.
“Japanese Journal of Urology” 1995; 86