1. Acupuncture in Persons with Increased Stress Levels:
This pilot study was designed to assess the feasibility of using acupuncture in individuals with high stress levels. It laid the groundwork for larger randomized controlled trials (RCTs) aimed at proving the efficacy of acupuncture in reducing stress. The results indicated potential benefits of verum (real) acupuncture in decreasing stress, setting the stage for more extensive research in this area.
2. Acupuncture’s Effectiveness on Stress in a College Population:
In this randomized controlled trial, the effectiveness of acupuncture on stress perception was studied among students and staff at a large urban college. Participants were divided into two groups: one received regular acupuncture, and the other received sham acupuncture. The treatment was given once a week for 12 weeks.
The results showed that while both groups experienced an initial decrease in stress, the regular acupuncture group exhibited a significantly greater reduction in perceived stress levels 12 weeks post-treatment. This suggests that acupuncture may be a useful tool for reducing stress perception, with effects that persist for at least three months after the treatment ends.
3. Traditional Japanese Acupuncture:
This study investigated the impact of traditional Japanese acupuncture on
stress relief for Japanese expatriates living in Myanmar, a country with challenging living conditions. 22 participants received acupuncture treatments, which showed significant reductions in negative mood states like tension and confusion. Interestingly, the effectiveness of the treatment seemed to be influenced by the individuals’ experience of staying abroad. The study suggests that Japanese acupuncture, known for its gentle technique and thin needles, can be particularly beneficial for managing stress, especially in places with limited medical infrastructure like Myanmar. This form of acupuncture, a part of traditional medicine in East Asia, is increasingly recognized in developed countries for its stress-relief benefits. The main conclusion of this study is that acupuncture can effectively alleviate stress, particularly negative moods, in Japanese expatriates.
