One moderate quality RCT(6), examined acupuncture combined with physiotherapy for patients awaiting total knee replacement. This was compared with a control group who received an exercise and advice leaflet. The intervention group received weekly group sessions of combined physiotherapy and acupuncture for four weeks, followed by fortnightly sessions for four weeks, then monthly sessions until their surgery.
Pain:
Might not be effective (one moderate quality study (6) showing no significant effect for the intervention compared to control).
Walking Ability:
Might not be effective (one moderate quality study (6) showing no significant effect for the
intervention compared to control).
Function:
Might not be effective (one moderate quality study (6) showing no significant effect for the intervention compared to control).
Anxiety/Depression:
Might not be effective (one moderate quality study (6) showing no significant effect for the intervention compared to control).
Delay/Cancellation of Surgery:
In one moderate quality study(6) 6 patients withdrew from the intervention group and 1 from the control group due to improvement in symptoms.