Treating itch with acupuncture

Science News, Feb 28, 2009 by Ted Blinder

Concerning "Itch" (SN: 11/22/08, p. 16): One of the theories behind acupuncture is the interrelation of nerves throughout the body so that stimulation in one area will have an effect on another. Since the researchers have discovered a new network of fibers, albeit itch fibers, it serves to corroborate the existence of a large involved network. This begets the question, is it possible that acupuncture could be a possible treatment for the "itch" or has it been already tried and found ineffective?

Ted Blinder, Havertown, Pa.

To date, acupuncture's effect on any kind of itch has been addressed by just a few small-scale studies. Clinician Gil Yosipovitch, who treats patients with chronic itch, says that he is a bit skeptical of the benefits of acupuncture for relieving chronic itch. But he adds that some reports of acupuncture's efficacy for chronic pain make it plausible that itch might also be alleviated. "Bottom line," Yosipovitch says, "as long as it is done by an expert and is devoid of adverse effects," it could be used as an adjunct treatment.--Laura Sanders