Acupuncture for Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Research

Acupuncture for Irritable Bowel

Research has examined acupuncture as an additional approach for people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Some studies have reported improvements in symptom measures compared with usual care, although findings depend on the study design and comparison used. Individual study results should not be taken as proof that acupuncture is an effective treatment for IBS.

Acupuncture for IBS - Research Abstract

Background: 

Acupuncture is used by patients as a treatment for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) but the evidence on effectiveness is limited. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of acupuncture for irritable bowel syndrome in primary care when provided as an adjunct to usual care.

Methods
Design: 

A two-arm pragmatic randomised controlled trial.

Setting: 

Primary care in the United Kingdom.

Patients: 

233 patients had irritable bowel syndrome with average duration of 13 years and score of at least 100 on the IBS Symptom Severity Score (SSS).

Interventions: 

116 patients were offered 10 weekly individualised acupuncture sessions plus usual care, 117 patients continued with usual care alone.

Measurements: 

Primary outcome was the IBS SSS at three months, with outcome data collected every three months to 12 months.

Results

There was a statistically significant difference between groups at three months favouring acupuncture with a reduction in IBS Symptom Severity Score of -27.43 (95% CI: --48.66 to -6.21, p = 0.012). The number needed to treat for successful treatment (>=50 point reduction in the IBS SSS) was six (95% CI: 3 to 17), based on 49% success in the acupuncture group vs. 31% in the control group, a difference between groups of 18% (95% CI: 6% to 31%). This benefit largely persisted at 6, 9 and 12 months.

Conclusion:

This study reported improvements in some IBS symptom measures among participants receiving acupuncture alongside usual care. However, the findings need to be understood in the context of the study's design, comparison groups and limitations. A single study cannot establish whether acupuncture provides a reliable clinical benefit for people with IBS. The broader research evidence remains important when considering treatment options.

For more up to date information about Acupuncture for IBS


The full study can be accessed here

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