Join David C. Smalley, a comedian and fact-checker known for his debunking skills, as he dives into the controversial world of acupuncture. They unravel the uncertain origins of this ancient practice and the mixed scientific results backing its effectiveness, especially in cancer pain relief. David sheds light on the skepticism shared by many doctors and discusses the potential risks involved with acupuncture, including serious safety concerns. With a blend of humor and critical analysis, this conversation challenges conventional beliefs about alternative therapies.
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Acupuncture's Disputed Origins
Acupuncture's origin is debated, with claims of a 3,000-year history in China disputed.
Some scholars suggest early mentions refer to bloodletting rather than acupuncture.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Origin Myths of Acupuncture
One legend claims acupuncture originated when a soldier's leg pain vanished after a shoulder wound.
Another suggests ear acupuncture began with a Frenchman's self-treatment based on the ear's resemblance to a fetus.
insights INSIGHT
Acupuncture Education in China
Modern acupuncture's link to China is strong, integrated into healthcare and taught at universities.
Programs involve five years for a bachelor's degree, followed by three years for a master's and PhD, or a seven-year master's program.
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10 to 15 million people per year turn to acupuncture — the insertion of thin needles through the skin at strategic points on the body — for relieving what ails them. But is there any evidence that it actually works?
Welcome to Skeptical Sunday, a special edition of The Jordan Harbinger Show where Jordan and fact-checker, comedian, and podcast host David C. Smalley break down a topic that you may have never thought about, open things up, and debunk common misconceptions.
On This Week's Skeptical Sunday, We Discuss:
The origins of acupuncture are unclear, and the claim that it started in China approximately 3,000 years ago is debated.
Peer-reviewed journal Global Advances in Integrative Medicine and Health claims that acupuncture is one of the most utilized forms of complementary integrative medicine interventions in the US and can help strengthen the immune system and reduce side effects of chemotherapy.
Studies on acupuncture's effectiveness in reducing cancer pain have mixed results due to small sample sizes and design problems. One study showed acupuncture helps deactivate brain areas associated with processing pain, but it only involved 17 people.
Many doctors are privately skeptical about acupuncture and say there's no real science to support the practice, but they often do not speak out against it publicly as they do not see it as particularly harmful.
Acupuncture can actually be a risky treatment, and 86 people have died from improperly placed needles — with the most common cause of death being a condition called pneumothorax.
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