Stroke Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Stroke, including details on treatment, recovery, rehabilitation, signs, symptoms.

Does acupuncture help stroke patients become more independent?

Hopwood V, Lewith GT

Complementary Medicine Research Unit, Aldermoor Health Centre, Southampton, UK. val.hopwoodaacp@btinternet.com

This short speculative report describes the outcome of three studies looking at the effect of acupuncture on stroke recovery and the subsequent place of residence of the subjects entered. It is not a systematic review and does not endeavor to provide comprehensive data on the effect of acupuncture on post-stroke recovery. Our observations demonstrate that patients may be more likely to remain independent and in their own homes one year post stroke if they receive acupuncture. This conclusion is supported by our study and two previous trials. It may be that acupuncture improves post-stroke perception, thereby enhancing independence.

Published 7 March 2005 in J Altern Complement Med, 11(1): 175-7.
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