Efficacy of Acupuncture for Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome

Acupuncture is one of the oldest standardized neuromodulatory therapies. The method of acupuncture treatment involves the insertion of needles in acupuncture points according to a system of channels and meridians. The needles are stimulated by manual manipulation, electrical stimulation or heat. The general theory of acupuncture is based on the premise that there are patterns of energy flow through the body that are essential for health. Disruptions of this flow are believed to be responsible for disease. Acupuncture may correct imbalances of flow at identifiable points close to the skin.

Placebo needle is a type of control without skin penetration based on the application of placebo needles with blunt needle tips.