Arthritis Research Clarifies Use Of Complementary Therapies

With complementary therapies now under serious doubt in the wellbeing press, research into the topic is finally getting the push it needs. Arthritis Research UK is the latest charity to conduct a research project into the effectiveness of wellness techniques for the conditions with which it is concerned. The outcome of the study leads them to join health advocates in warning the public that some complementary therapies for arthritis are not supported by sufficient scientific evidence. On the positive side, however, their inquiry gives a valid support to the more effective therapies.

The evidence-based report looked into alternative techniques commonly used to treat the following conditions. Twenty-five therapies were considered and scored according to their effectiveness, based on the results of previous clinical studies.

Rheumatoid arthritis – the inquiry found that very little research had been conducted into complementary therapies claiming to address rheumatoid arthritis. Of the research available, there was a slight amount of evidence pertaining to the effectiveness of biofeedback, relaxation therapy and Tai Chi.

Osteoarthritis – in this case, the evidence for Tai Chi was much stronger, with acupuncture also being found to be highly effective. Fortunately, all therapies studied were found to be safe, with the exception of chiropractice, which had carried a slight safety warning.

Fibromyalgia – in an examination of seventeen different therapies, only four were judged to be effective. Tai Chi and relaxation therapy received good results, and acupuncture and massage were rated higher still.

Low back pain – this common condition has a wealth of scientific literature about it, enabling the researchers to make a sound judgment about what the best therapies are. Eight of the fourteen therapies assessed were found to have an insignificant effect on the condition. Evidence for the Alexander technique, relaxation therapy and osteopathy was good, and acupuncture and yoga were found to be highly effective.