According to the Australian Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Association (AACMA) and research reviews like The Acupuncture Evidence Project, acupuncture has been shown to be beneficial for various health conditions.
There is strong evidence supporting acupuncture for chronic lower back pain, migraine prevention, tension headaches, knee osteoarthritis, and postoperative pain relief. These conditions have been well-researched, with high-quality studies demonstrating acupuncture’s effectiveness.
Moderate evidence exists for anxiety and stress, depression, neck pain, menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea), nausea and vomiting (related to chemotherapy, pregnancy, or post-surgery), shoulder pain, tennis elbow, allergic rhinitis (hay fever), and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain. While research in these areas is positive, additional studies could further strengthen the evidence base.
There is also emerging evidence suggesting acupuncture may support fertility and IVF, insomnia and sleep issues, menopausal symptoms (such as hot flashes), digestive issues (including IBS, bloating, and constipation), fatigue and low energy, and conditions like fibromyalgia and chronic pain syndromes. More research is needed in these areas, but initial findings are promising.
