Acupuncture is considered to be beneficial for a range of conditions including: osteo-arthritic pain of the knee (temporary relief), dental pain, nausea, vomiting and tension type headaches (short term relief). In 2009 the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) recommended that acupuncture should be made available on the NHS, as a cost-effective short-term treatment for the management of early, persistent, non-specific lower back pain. Acupuncture is often used in conjunction with western medicine and in some countries such as China, is used routinely alongside conventional treatment in many scenarios. Some people turn to acupuncture for help with a specific problem or condition. Others choose to have treatment to help maintain good health, as a preventative measure or to improve their general sense of well-being . Many women choose to have acupuncture to support them throughout pregnancy, after giving birth and later during life changes. Acupuncture is considered suitable for all ages, including babies and children.
