Clinical Evidence and Research of Acupuncture for Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by the rapid buildup of skin cells, leading to thick, red, and scaly patches on the skin's surface. Various treatment options aim to manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for those affected. In recent years, acupuncture has gained attention as a potential complementary therapy for psoriasis management. This article provides an overview of the clinical evidence and research surrounding acupuncture as a treatment for psoriasis.

To assess the efficacy of acupuncture in psoriasis treatment, several systematic reviews (SRs) and meta-analyses (MAs) have been conducted. A review of the literature published between 2009 and 2014 revealed a substantial body of research supporting the use of acupuncture for psoriasis management. Acupuncture therapies were found to be simple, convenient, and effective, providing long-lasting therapeutic effects. Furthermore, minimal side effects and toxicity were reported, making acupuncture a potentially safe option for individuals with psoriasis.

Building upon the findings of previous reviews, additional studies published between 2015 and 2020 were included in a more recent overview of acupuncture's efficacy for psoriasis treatment. The collective evidence from these studies suggests that acupuncture can be used as a complementary therapy to achieve effective clinical results for psoriasis patients. The studies analyzed in this overview provide further support for the use of acupuncture in combination with conventional treatments, offering potential benefits beyond what traditional approaches can achieve alone.

One key advantage of acupuncture as a treatment for psoriasis is its holistic approach. Unlike topical creams or oral medications that target specific symptoms, acupuncture aims to address the underlying imbalances within the body.

The mechanism of action through which acupuncture exerts its therapeutic effects on psoriasis is not yet fully understood. However, several theories have been proposed. Acupuncture has been shown to modulate the immune system, reduce inflammation, and promote the release of endogenous opioids and other neurotransmitters involved in pain and stress management. These effects may contribute to the observed improvements in psoriasis symptoms.

In conclusion, the available clinical evidence and research support the use of acupuncture as a complementary therapy for psoriasis. Acupuncture treatments have demonstrated effectiveness, long-lasting therapeutic effects, and minimal side effects and toxicity. However, further well-designed studies are needed to establish acupuncture's precise mechanisms of action and its optimal role in the overall management of psoriasis. Nonetheless, acupuncture offers a potential avenue for individuals seeking additional relief and improved quality of life alongside conventional treatments for psoriasis.

References
Yu Xiang et al Journal of Dermatological Treatment
Volume 28, 2017 - Issue 3
Mingyi Jing et al https://apm.amegroups.com/article/view/81110/html

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