Recent developments in clinical acupuncture

Recent developments in the field of clinical acupuncture in the USA and worldwide are reviewed. The discovery of beta-endorphin in support of acupuncture pain relief is discussed. Other neurotransmitters in relation to the mechanism of action of acupuncture are examined. The uses of acupuncture in treating functional disorders are listed and discussed. Supporting evidence from animal experimentation is examined. The electro-acupuncture according to Voll (EAV) system is introduced as a means to standardize the therapeutic effectiveness of acupuncture. With standardization of the therapeutic effectiveness of this procedure, the author sees acupuncture as a simple, economical and effective treatment modality.