Improvement in Fibromyalgia Symptoms With Acupuncture: Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial.

Abstract

Objective:  To test the hypothesis that acupuncture improves symptoms of fibromyalgia.

Patients and Methods:  We conducted a prospective, partially blinded, controlled, randomized clinical trial of patients receiving true acupuncture compared with a control group of patients who received simulated acupuncture.  All patients met American College of Rheumatology criteria for fibromyalgia and had tried conservative symptomatic treatments other than acupuncture.  We measured symptoms with the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) and the Multidimensional Pain Inventory at baseline, immediately after treatment, and at 1 month and 7 months after treatment. T he trial was conducted from May 28, 2002, to August 18, 2003.

Results:  Fifty patients participated in the study: 25 in the acupuncture group and 25 in the control group. Total fibromyalgia symptoms, as measured by the FIQ, were significantly improved in the acupuncture group compared with the control group during the study period (P=.01). The largest difference in mean FIQ total scores was observed at 1 month (42.2 vs 34.8 in the control and acupuncture groups, respectively; P=.007).  Fatigue and anxiety were the most significantly improved symptoms during the follow- up period. However, activity and physical function levels did not change.  Acupuncture was well tolerated, with minimal adverse effects.

Conclusion:  This study represents a prospective, blinded, randomized trial of acupuncture for patients with fibromyalgia. Acupuncture was well tolerated with minimal adverse effects.  Symptoms of fibromyalgia improved in the acupuncture group to a greater extent than in the control group.  Specific symptoms that showed the most significant improvements included fatigue and anxiety. The improvement was both clinically and statistically significant. Therefore, acupuncture may have a role in the symptomatic treatment of patients with fibromyalgia.